The University of Toronto in Canada, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and the Africa Health Collaborative, is offering Doctor of Public Health Scholarships 2026-2027 for outstanding public health students from Africa. This fully funded doctoral scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and more, enabling talented graduates to focus on advancing health systems rather than financial burdens. Open to recent alumni and final-year students of partner universities in Africa, this program aims to develop leaders who will drive positive change in their communities.
The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health is structured as a professional degree emphasizing leadership and practical impact. Unlike a traditional PhD, the DrPH trains students to apply research to policy and practice, focusing on leadership, management, and solving real-world health challenges. Graduates will cultivate skills in data analysis, governance, and workforce development to address evolving public health issues. For example, each DrPH student undertakes applied research projects that address real community health challenges.
Overview
The Doctor of Public Health Scholarships 2026-2027 are offered by the University of Toronto in Canada and are fully funded by the Mastercard Foundation. They are aimed at recent graduates or students completing a Master’s degree from one of the Africa Health Collaborative partner universities. The scholarship supports enrollment in the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program at U of T, a 4-year full-time professional doctoral degree. In practice, this means recipients can expect a rigorous curriculum designed to build advanced leadership capacity in public health.
These scholarships are fully funded, meaning all tuition and academic fees are waived and students receive living stipends. Recipients also receive a stipend for housing, meals, books, and travel. Up to three scholarships will be awarded for the 2026-2027 intake, ensuring that multiple talented African scholars are supported. The program also provides networking and mentorship opportunities, including orientation sessions, to help scholars adapt and thrive in the Doctor of Public Health program.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Doctor of Public Health Scholarships 2026-2027, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a citizen and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Hold a degree from an Africa Health Collaborative partner university, and not have begun any doctoral studies.
- Exhibit academic excellence and leadership during your undergraduate and Master’s studies.
- Meet the admission requirements for the University of Toronto’s Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to returning to your home country to apply your skills during the final two years of the program.
Each of these requirements is mandatory. Successful applicants are typically outstanding Master’s graduates or exceptional Bachelor’s holders who can clearly explain how their DrPH training will benefit their communities.
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Coverage / Benefits
The scholarship provides comprehensive funding for the entire Doctor of Public Health program. Key benefits include:
- Full tuition and fees coverage: The scholarship waives all tuition and program fees (a full tuition waiver).
- Living stipend: Scholars receive a monthly stipend to cover housing, food, books, and daily expenses.
- Travel and relocation support: Funds for round-trip airfare to Canada and a relocation allowance are provided.
- Health insurance: International student health insurance is included.
- Orientation and support: Access to orientation workshops and academic advising helps scholars settle in.
- Networking and training: Opportunities to connect with other scholars and public health professionals through events and training.
In short, this is a fully funded grant that removes financial barriers to studying. Recipients can focus entirely on their education and research without worrying about costs.
Host Country & University Info
Canada is known for its high-quality education system and multicultural society. Studying here offers exposure to top-tier research and a safe, welcoming environment. Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a global hub with a strong international student community and excellent living standards.
The University of Toronto (U of T) is a world-renowned institution. Its Dalla Lana School of Public Health is the leading public health school in Canada and is recognized internationally for research excellence. Established in 1927, Dalla Lana has a long history of innovation (it housed the famous Connaught Laboratories for vaccines). The new DrPH program further expands its mission by training leaders in public health policy and practice.
At U of T, DrPH students benefit from extensive resources – modern libraries, research labs, and expert faculty. As a participant, you will become part of a vibrant academic community in Toronto, gaining mentorship and collaborating with peers. Toronto’s multicultural atmosphere means you’ll live in a diverse, supportive city. In summary, pursuing this scholarship lets you earn a prestigious Canadian doctorate in a city that fosters academic excellence and global perspectives.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Review Program Requirements: Confirm that you meet the DrPH admission criteria (e.g., a relevant Master’s degree and strong grades, plus English language proficiency). Gather transcripts, CV, references, and test scores.
- Attend an Info Session: Register for and attend one of the mandatory information sessions (dates below). These online sessions explain the scholarship and application steps.
- Complete Scholarship Application: After attending, fill out the Mastercard Foundation Doctoral Scholarship form. Submit essays about your goals and leadership, and upload all required documents.
- Deadline: October 10, 2025, by 11:59 PM EST. Applications submitted after this will not be accepted.
- DrPH Program Application: If selected for the scholarship, you will be invited to apply to U of T’s DrPH program by Nov 21, 2025. Submit the University’s online form and any additional materials as instructed.
- Interviews and Final Selection: Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed by the scholarship committee. Be prepared to discuss your research interests and commitment to public health.
- Visa and Enrollment: Once admitted, U of T will guide you through obtaining a Canadian study permit (student visa) and preparing for arrival in Fall 2026.
Info Session Dates: Sep 3, Sep 11, Sep 25, 2025 (virtual). (Links to register can be found on the Africa Health Collaborative website.)
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Important Deadlines
- Info Session Registration: Now – early Sept 2025 (for sessions below).
- Mandatory Info Sessions: Sep 3, Sep 11, or Sep 25, 2025.
- Scholarship Application Deadline: October 10, 2025 (11:59 PM EST).
- Notification of Results: By Nov 1, 2025 via email.
- DrPH Program Application Deadline: Nov 21, 2025 (for selected candidates).
- Program Start: Fall 2026 (exact date TBA).
Mark these dates and prepare your application early. Missing the October deadline means missing out on this opportunity.
Tips for Applicants
- Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare a strong application. Collect transcripts, recommendation letters, and study for tests well before deadlines.
- Highlight Leadership: Showcase any public health projects, volunteer work, or leadership roles you’ve held. Concrete examples make your application memorable.
- Connect Goals to Impact: Clearly explain how this scholarship and DrPH degree will enable you to improve healthcare in your country. Link your career goals to specific community needs or projects.
- Be Engaged: Attend an info session and interact with the presenters. Demonstrating initiative and asking thoughtful questions shows your commitment.
- Write Clearly: In essays and interviews, be concise and honest. Clearly state your objectives and how your background prepares you for this journey.
- Seek Guidance: Reach out to mentors, professors, or past scholarship recipients for advice. Their insights can help you stand out.
Above all, demonstrate your passion for public health and readiness to contribute. A well-prepared, authentic application will give you the best chance.
Conclusion
The Doctor of Public Health Scholarships 2026-2027 at the University of Toronto are a life-changing opportunity for emerging African health leaders. With all expenses covered and world-class training, recipients will gain the tools to transform health systems and save lives. Don’t let this chance pass you by – apply today and share this news with your network. Your future in public health starts now, and the impact you will make can benefit communities for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Doctor of Public Health Scholarship 2026-2027?
This is a fully funded scholarship for the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program at the University of Toronto, supported by the Mastercard Foundation. It covers tuition, living, travel, and related costs for eligible African students.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries who graduated from an Africa Health Collaborative partner university, with strong academic and leadership records. They should also meet the U of T DrPH admission requirements and commit to returning to their home country.
What costs are covered?
The scholarship pays for all tuition and fees (a full tuition waiver) and provides stipends for living costs, textbooks, and travel. Recipients have no tuition bills or education debt.
How many scholarships are awarded?
Up to three students will be awarded this scholarship each year. Each scholarship is prestigious and fully funded.
When is the deadline?
The scholarship application deadline is October 10, 2025 (11:59 PM EST). You must also apply to the U of T DrPH program by Nov 21, 2025 if you are shortlisted.
How do I apply?
First, check you meet all criteria. Then register for and attend an info session. After that, complete the online Mastercard Foundation scholarship application by Oct 10, 2025. If selected, you will be invited to submit the formal University of Toronto application. Good luck, and be sure to spread the word to other qualified candidates!
