McGill University’s McCall MacBain Scholarship 2025 | Fully Funded

Overview of the McCall MacBain Scholarship

The McCall MacBain Scholarship, offered at McGill University in Montréal, Canada, is designed to empower students with exceptional academic potential and leadership qualities. It supports scholars in pursuing a fully funded master’s or second-entry professional undergraduate program while fostering their personal and professional growth through mentorship, coaching, and leadership development opportunities. The scholarship aims to create a global network of leaders who are equipped to address pressing challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The program is open to candidates from all countries, with up to 20 spots reserved for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and refugees, and 10 spots for international candidates for the 2025 cohort. In addition to the full scholarships, close to 100 finalists and regional award recipients are recognized with additional awards based on their performance during the interview process.

Key Features of the Scholarship

The McCall MacBain Scholarship is distinguished by its comprehensive support system, which goes beyond traditional financial aid. Here are the primary components:

1. Financial Support:
   • Full Tuition and Fees: The scholarship covers the entire cost of tuition and fees for the normal duration of the master’s or professional program.
   • Living Stipend: Scholars receive a monthly stipend of CAD 2,300 (approximately USD 1,700, based on current exchange rates) during academic terms to cover living expenses in Montréal.
   • Relocation Grant: A one-time grant is provided to assist with the costs of moving to Montréal, ensuring a smooth transition for scholars relocating from other regions or countries.
   • Summer Initiative Funding: Scholars who are not engaged in academic terms during the summer can apply for up to CAD 5,000 to pursue meaningful initiatives, such as internships, research projects, or community service.
2. Leadership and Mentorship Programs:
   • Scholars participate in an interdisciplinary leadership program designed to enhance their skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.
   • Each scholar is paired with a mentor, coach, and advisors who provide personalized guidance throughout their academic journey.
   • Opportunities to explore interests and expand knowledge through workshops, networking events, and interdisciplinary activities.
3. Language Training:
   • The scholarship includes beginner to advanced French language courses offered through McGill University, enabling scholars to immerse themselves in Québec’s bilingual culture.
4. Affordable Living in Montréal:
   • McGill University’s relatively low tuition rates, combined with Montréal’s affordable cost of living, make this scholarship a financially viable option for graduate studies. This ensures that scholars can focus on their education and leadership development without financial strain.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the McCall MacBain Scholarship for the 2025 cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Background:
  • Applicants must be on track to earn their first bachelor’s degree by August 2026, or have earned their first bachelor’s degree within the last five years (January 2020 or later).
  • Candidates who earned their bachelor’s degree more than five years ago are eligible if they are 30 years or younger in 2025.
  • The bachelor’s degree must be recognized as equivalent by McGill University.
• Program Requirements:
  • Applicants must meet the minimum degree and language proficiency requirements for admission to their chosen McGill master’s or second-entry professional undergraduate program.
• Leadership and Commitment:
  • The scholarship seeks candidates who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential, a commitment to community engagement, and a desire to make a positive impact.

Application Process

Applying for the McCall MacBain Scholarship involves a multi-step process, with clear deadlines and requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare for the Application:
   • Review the eligibility criteria and ensure you meet the academic and age requirements.
   • Research eligible master’s or professional programs at McGill University to identify the program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
2. Submit the Scholarship Application:
   • Applications for the 2025 cohort open on June 1, 2025, and close on August 20, 2025.
   • Visit the official McCall MacBain Scholarship application portal to submit your application. The portal is accessible via the McGill University website or the scholarship’s dedicated page.
   • Provide required documents, which typically include academic transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation highlighting your leadership and community involvement.
3. Apply to a McGill Program:
   • Separately apply for admission to a master’s or second-entry professional undergraduate program at McGill University by the September deadline for the following fall semester (2026).
   • Ensure you meet the program’s specific admission requirements, including language proficiency (e.g., English or French, depending on the program).
4. Interviews and Selection:
   • Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, which assess leadership potential, academic excellence, and alignment with the scholarship’s values.
   • Up to 20 Canadian and 10 international scholars will be selected, with additional finalists and regional award recipients recognized.
5. Notification and Acceptance:

Successful candidates will be notified of their scholarship award and must accept the offer to begin their studies at McGill in the fall of 2026.

Benefits of Studying at McGill University

McGill University, located in the vibrant and multicultural city of Montréal, is one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions, renowned for its academic excellence and research opportunities. The McCall MacBain Scholarship enhances the McGill experience by providing financial security and personalized support, allowing scholars to fully engage in their studies and leadership development. Montréal’s low cost of living, combined with its rich cultural and bilingual environment, makes it an ideal destination for graduate studies.

READ ALSO: Apply Now: University of Alberta Scholarships in Canada for 2025–2028

FAQs

What is the McCall MacBain Scholarship?

The McCall MacBain Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for master’s or second-entry professional undergraduate programs at McGill University. It covers tuition, provides a living stipend, relocation grant, and French language training, and includes a leadership development program with mentorship and coaching.

Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?

Eligible applicants include current students on track to earn their first bachelor’s degree by August 2026, those who earned their degree after January 2020, or those who earned their degree earlier but are 30 or younger in 2025. Applicants must also meet McGill’s admission requirements for their chosen program.

 Which programs at McGill are eligible for the scholarship?

The scholarship supports most master’s programs and second-entry professional undergraduate programs (e.g., medicine, law) at McGill University. Applicants should confirm their program’s eligibility on the McGill website.

When is the application deadline for the 2025 cohort?

The application period for the 2025 McCall MacBain Scholarship opens on June 1, 2025, and closes on August 20, 2025. A separate application for a McGill program must be submitted by September 2025.

How many scholarships are awarded each year?

Up to 30 full scholarships are awarded annually: 20 for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or refugees, and 10 for international students. Additionally, around 100 finalists and regional award recipients receive smaller awards.

What does the scholarship cover?

The scholarship covers full tuition and fees, a CAD 2,300 monthly living stipend during academic terms, a one-time relocation grant, French language courses, and up to CAD 5,000 for summer initiatives.

Do I need to apply separately for a McGill program?

Yes, you must apply separately for admission to a McGill master’s or professional program by the September deadline for the fall 2026 semester.

What is the leadership program component?

The interdisciplinary leadership program includes workshops, mentorship, and coaching to develop scholars’ leadership skills, ethical decision-making, and community engagement.

Can international students apply for the scholarship?

Yes, international students are eligible, with up to 10 scholarships reserved for international candidates each year.

How competitive is the McCall MacBain Scholarship?

The scholarship is highly competitive, with only 30 full scholarships awarded annually. However, close to 100 additional candidates receive finalist or regional awards based on their interview performance.

Where can I find more information about the application process?

Visit the official McCall MacBain Scholarship website or the McGill University admissions portal for detailed application guidelines and resources.

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