The information on this web page pertains to the 2026-2027 McCall MacBain Scholarships competition. Successful applicants will commence their award in Fall 2027.
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an upcoming information session:
- March 5, 2026 (in-person): Hosted by St. Jerome’s University. Waterloo students are welcome to attend. The session will feature a University of Waterloo finalist. Register online.
- March 23, 2026 (virtual): Ontario Information session featuring a University of Waterloo finalist. Register online.
- April 2, 2026 (virtual): Ontario Information session. Register online.
Applicants may also register for one of the open information sessions.
Scholarship overview
The McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s first comprehensive, leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. The program brings together students who strive to engage in positive change by taking on meaningful leadership roles.
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition and fees for the full normal duration of the master’s or professional program
- A living stipend of $2,300 per month during academic terms
- A one-time relocation grant for moving to Montréal
- Beginner to advanced French language courses offered through McGill
Up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholarships and up to 100 finalist ($10,000) and regional ($5,000) awards will be offered to candidates who distinguish themselves during the interview process.
Evaluation criteria
McCall MacBain Scholars will have a track record of community engagement, informed by a sense of duty, empathy, intellectual curiosity, grit, and a willingness to take risks. They aim to create meaningful and lasting change, while improving the lives of others.
The selection committee will seek applicants with:
- Exceptional character
- Community engagement
- Leadership potential
- Entrepreneurial spirit
- Academic strength and intellectual curiosity
Eligibility criteria
Applicants must review the full eligibility criteria found on the McCall MacBain website.
Application process
1. Review the application requirements
- Visit the McCall MacBain Resources website to view the application requirements to begin preparing your application, as well as the Frequently Asked Questions.
2. Create application in online portal
- The application portal will open in June 2026. Visit the McCall MacBain website to view the online application portal and initiate an application. We encourage applicants to create an application early on to avoid any unforeseeable issues.
3. Submit application by the deadline
- Applicants must submit their application materials through the McCall MacBain online application portal by the application deadline of September 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. Referees must submit their reference letters by the same deadline.
Institutional endorsement
Eligible current students and recent graduates must earn an endorsement from their current/most recent institution. Applicants seeking endorsement through the University of Waterloo must finalize and submit their application through the McCall MacBain online application portal by the deadline of September 23, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
All applicants will receive notification regarding whether they were selected for endorsement by the University of Waterloo within three weeks of the application deadline.
Timeline
Helpful resources
- McCall MacBain Scholarship website
- Referees - visit the University Affairs website for help how to ask for a reference letter
- Centre for Career Action website - for pointers on resume/CV writing and interview skills
- Writing and Communication Centre website - for writing and communication support
Questions about the McCall MacBain scholarship application process can be emailed to the Co-ordinator, Graduate Financial Aid and Awards in Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA).