The McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University represent Canada’s inaugural all-encompassing scholarships for master’s and professional degree studies, emphasizing the importance of leadership. This scholarship initiative unites a wide range of scholars who possess the ambition to lead with a clear purpose. These individuals have displayed exceptional leadership aptitude and an intrinsic motivation to effect positive change in the lives of others.
In February 2019, John and Marcy McCall MacBain announced the establishment of the scholarships, making a groundbreaking donation of $200 million, the largest single gift in Canadian history at that time. Drawing from their extensive involvement with prestigious scholarships worldwide, such as the Rhodes Scholarships in Oxford, the Mandela Rhodes Scholarships in Cape Town, and the Kupe Scholarships in New Zealand, the McCall MacBains recognized the need for a comprehensive master’s-level scholarship in Canada that prioritizes academic excellence while going beyond it.
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is a fully-funded graduate scholarship program designed to offer students the guidance of mentors, interdisciplinary education, and a global community that empowers them to enhance their impact on the world.
The McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University are situated on land that has historically served as a space for Indigenous peoples to gather and engage in exchanges, including the Haudenosaunee and Anishinabek nations.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible to apply for our 2024 cohort, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- You are a current student who is on track to earn your first bachelor’s degree by August 2024.
- You have earned your first bachelor’s degree within the last five years, specifically from January 2018 onwards.
- You have earned your first bachelor’s degree more than five years ago, and you are 30 years of age or younger as of 2023.
Application Deadline for 2024 admission
Canada and United States
Students and graduates from universities in Canada and the United States, including Canadians studying abroad, should submit their applications by:
Deadline for Canada and the United States: September 27, 2023
International students and graduates from universities located in countries other than Canada and the United States should submit their applications by:
Deadline for International Applicants: August 24, 2023
To determine your specific application deadline for the 2024 admission, please answer the following two questions:
- Do you have Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or refugee status? (Yes/No)
- Where is your current or most recent university located? (Canada, United States, Any other country).
Application Timeline:
June to September 2023
October to December 2023
October to December 2023
March 2024
September 2024
How to Apply:
Applying for McCall MacBain Scholars
Make sure to apply early! The application for the McCall MacBain Scholarship can be accessed online during the following periods:
- Application availability: June to August/September 2023
- Admission for: Summer/Fall 2024
Please note that the application process for the scholarship is separate from McGill admissions. To complete the application, you will need to submit two reference forms. For detailed information about the application requirements and process, please refer to the provided resources.
Applying for McGill Programs
In addition to applying for the McCall MacBain Scholarship, you will need to submit a separate application for eligible programs at McGill University. The admissions period for McGill generally begins in September for the subsequent Fall semester.
To ensure consideration as a scholarship finalist, it is recommended to submit your program application by the specific deadline set by the program you are applying to. If you are selected as a scholarship finalist, the latest recommended deadline for program application submission is in December.
Please be mindful of these timelines and deadlines to maximize your chances of being considered for both the McCall MacBain Scholarship and admission to your desired McGill programs.
Attend Regional Interviews (Invitation Only)
Following the evaluation of the written applications, over 250 semi-finalists from Canada and around the world will be selected. These individuals will be invited to participate in regional interviews. The interview panel will consist of accomplished leaders representing diverse fields and backgrounds. Please refer to the provided interview dates for more information.
