McCall MacBain International Fellowships Open for 2026-27 Global Experiences

Applications are now being accepted for the McCall MacBain International Fellowships for the 2026-2027 academic year. This prestigious program offers Canadian undergraduate students a fully-funded year abroad. The deadline for submissions is January 13, 2026.

The fellowship is designed to cultivate global citizens through immersive international experiences. It targets students from specific partner universities across Canada. The goal is to build strong intercultural competencies.

Fellowship Structure and Financial Support

Selected fellows receive up to CAD $30,000 to cover their year abroad. This funding supports living expenses, travel, and program costs. The financial award makes the international experience accessible.

The fellowship year is divided into three distinct terms. It begins in the fall and concludes the following summer. Each term has a unique focus and set of activities.

Fellows first undertake an intensive language term. They live with a host family and volunteer locally. This builds a foundational connection to the new culture.

The second term involves full-time academic study. Fellows enroll in courses at a host university abroad. They often take classes in their newly acquired language.

The final term is a professional work placement. Fellows secure a full-time, paid job or internship. This provides valuable international work experience.

Eligibility and Application Process Details

Eligibility is restricted to Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must be between 19 and 24 years old at the start of the application year. They must be enrolled full-time in a first-entry undergraduate program.

The program is available to students from McGill University, McMaster University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Manitoba. Current recipients of the MacBain Niagara Falls and McCall Huron County scholarships are also eligible to apply. A minimum CGPA of 3.0 is required.

Applicants must not have already met their graduation requirements before departure. They must be in good academic and non-academic standing with their university. Prior independent international experience of eight months or more in the last three years disqualifies an applicant.

Prospective fellows can apply directly through the official program website. The selection process is highly competitive. It seeks students who demonstrate resilience, creativity, and a capacity to step outside their comfort zone.

The McCall MacBain International Fellowships represent a transformative opportunity for Canada’s next generation of leaders. This program directly invests in developing global perspectives and skills. Successful applicants will embark on a unique journey that shapes their personal and professional futures.

Info at your fingertips

Who is eligible for the McCall MacBain International Fellowships?

The fellowships are for Canadian undergraduate students at McGill, McMaster, Dalhousie, or the University of Manitoba. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents aged 19-24. A minimum CGPA and good university standing are also required.

What does the $30,000 fellowship funding cover?

The funding supports all expenses during the year abroad. This includes costs for the language program, university courses, and living expenses. It is designed to make the international experience financially feasible.

What are the three terms of the fellowship year?

The year is split into a language term, an academic term, and a work term. The language term involves intensive study and homestay. The academic term is at a host university, and the work term is a professional placement.

How competitive is the application process?

The process is highly competitive. It selects students who show strong potential for growth and global engagement. The program looks for creativity, resilience, and critical thinking skills.

Can students from any Canadian university apply?

No, eligibility is currently limited to four specific partner institutions. These are McGill University, McMaster University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Manitoba. MacBain and McCall scholarship holders are also eligible.