MastersFully Funded (includes monetary support, tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, English language support)

British Council Scholarships for women in STEM

The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM aim to increase opportunities for women in STEM, strengthen female leadership in science and innovation, and promote a more diverse and gender-representative sector by providing funding for one-year master's degree programmes at top ranking universities and research institutions within the UK, for women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts. The scholarship covers full costs including tuition, living stipends, travel, and healthcare. Applications for 2026-27 are closed, and results are due by June 2026. Future applicants should check the official website for updated information and specific eligibility criteria. The program emphasizes enhancing women’s careers in STEM and enabling them to promote research and innovation in their home country through exposure to UK expertise and global expertise. Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record, commitment to STEM, leadership potential, and an intention to contribute to their home country. Always refer to the official British Council page for comprehensive and current details.

Provider: Aga Khan Foundation
Host country: United Kingdom
Deadline: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026)

Official source Track this application

Applying from your country? See your edition: Kenya · Nigeria · Ghana · Ethiopia · Uganda · Tanzania · Rwanda · Angola · Mozambique · São Tomé & Príncipe · Senegal · Cameroon · Ivory Coast · Benin · Togo · DR Congo

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Review the recorded eligibility, funding and deadline information below. Confirm the current award conditions on the provider's official source.

Who can apply: Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.
Funding: Fully Funded (includes monetary support, tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, English language support)
Study level: Masters
Deadline: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026)

Key eligibility criteria

Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.

Recorded funding information

Fully Funded (includes monetary support, tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, English language support)

About the British Council Scholarships for women in STEM (2026)

# British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM: Comprehensive Applicant Brief ## Overview The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program is a significant initiative designed to address the persistent gender gap in STEM fields. This scholarship aims to empower women by providing access to world-class education and fostering female leadership in science and innovation. The program specifically targets women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts, offering them the opportunity to pursue one-year Master's degree programs at leading UK universities and research institutions. The overarching goal is to promote a more diverse and gender-representative STEM sector globally, recognizing the significant underrepresentation and disparities faced by women in these professions. ## Benefits Recipients of the British Council Women in STEM scholarship receive comprehensive support, making it a fully funded opportunity. The program is meticulously designed to cover all essential aspects of studying abroad, ensuring scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional development. Key benefits include: * **Full Scholarships:** This encompasses complete monetary support, alleviating financial burdens. * **Tuition Fees:** All academic tuition expenses for the one-year Master's degree program are covered. * **Living Stipends:** Scholars receive financial assistance to cover daily living costs throughout their study period. * **Travel and Visa Costs:** The scholarship covers expenses related to international travel to the UK and the necessary visa application fees. * **Health Coverage Fees:** Comprehensive health insurance is provided, ensuring access to medical care during their stay. * **English Language Support:** Assistance is available for improving English language proficiency, crucial for academic success in the UK. * **Access to World-Leading Science and Research Universities:** Scholars gain entry to prestigious UK universities renowned globally for their excellence in science and research. * **Career Opportunities:** The program is designed to enhance women's careers in STEM, equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills. It also facilitates the promotion of research and innovation in their home countries through exposure to the UK's esteemed STEM expertise. * **Alumni Networks:** Scholars become part of a long-lasting platform, connecting them with a global network of UK alumni and fellow Women in STEM scholars. ## Eligibility The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM are specifically for women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts who wish to pursue a Master's degree in a STEM field. While the specific eligibility criteria are not fully detailed on the provided page, it is clear that the scholarship is designed to support individuals who face barriers to accessing higher education and pursuing STEM careers. Prospective applicants should consult the dedicated "Eligibility criteria for applicants" link on the official website for comprehensive and up-to-date requirements. The program generally targets a diverse range of countries, and candidates are typically expected to demonstrate academic potential and a commitment to contributing to STEM in their home countries. ## Required Documents The provided web page does not explicitly list the required documents for the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM. However, applicants are typically expected to furnish a range of documents common to international scholarship applications and university admissions. These commonly include: * Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Proof of previous academic qualifications. * Proof of English Language Proficiency: Scores from tests like IELTS or TOEFL, if applicable. * Personal Statement or Essay: Outlining academic and career goals, and reasons for applying. * References/Letters of Recommendation: From academic or professional contacts. * Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: Detailing work experience, skills, and achievements. * Passport or Valid Identification: For identification and visa purposes. * Proof of financial need or disadvantaged background: As the scholarship targets women from socioeconomically disadvantaged contexts. Applicants are strongly advised to refer to the "Apply for a scholarship" and "Eligibility criteria for applicants" sections on the official British Council website for a definitive list of required documents for their specific application year and chosen university. ## How to Apply The application process for the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM typically involves applying directly to participating UK universities. The main page indicates that applications for the 2026-27 academic year are already closed, and universities are currently reviewing submitted applications. Shortlisting results were scheduled to be communicated by universities in the first week of June 2026. For future application cycles, prospective applicants should: 1. **Identify Participating Universities:** Consult the official British Council website for a list of UK universities that partner with the Women in STEM scholarship program. 2. **Choose a Master's Program:** Select a one-year Master's degree program in a STEM field that aligns with their academic background and career aspirations. 3. **Review University-Specific Requirements:** Each university will have its own admissions criteria and application procedures in addition to the scholarship requirements. 4. **Complete University Application:** Submit a comprehensive application to the chosen university, indicating interest in the British Council Women in STEM scholarship. 5. **Submit Scholarship Application:** Depending on the university and scholarship structure, there may be a separate scholarship application form or a combined application. 6. **Adhere to Deadlines:** Pay close attention to both university application deadlines and scholarship application deadlines. These can vary significantly. For queries regarding the status of a submitted application, applicants are advised to contact the university to which they applied, as universities manage the assessment process. ## Key Dates The provided information indicates that applications for the 2026-27 academic year are **now closed**. The following key dates were mentioned for that cycle: * **Shortlisting Results Communication:** First week of June 2026. These results are communicated by the individual universities to which applicants applied. Prospective applicants for subsequent academic years should regularly check the official British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM website for updated key dates and application windows. Deadlines for future cycles will vary by year and university, so timely consultation of the official source is crucial. ## Selection Criteria While the specific, detailed selection criteria are not explicitly laid out on the main page, the overarching goals of the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM program provide strong indicators of what qualities and qualifications are valued in applicants. Given the program's focus, successful candidates are likely to demonstrate: * **Strong Academic Record:** While not explicitly stated, a competitive academic background will be essential for admission to top UK universities. * **Commitment to STEM:** A clear and compelling articulation of interest in STEM fields and how the Master's program will further their career in these areas. * **Potential for Leadership:** The program aims to strengthen female leadership, so applicants demonstrating leadership potential or aspirations will be highly regarded. * **Socioeconomic Disadvantage:** Since the scholarship targets women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts, applicants will likely need to provide evidence or a compelling narrative regarding their background. * **Contribution to Home Country:** An expressed desire and plan to apply their acquired knowledge and skills to promote research and innovation in their home country. * **English Language Proficiency:** Sufficient English language skills to undertake a Master's degree in the UK. Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and any specific requirements outlined by their chosen universities when preparing their applications. ## Tips Applying for a competitive scholarship like the British Council Women in STEM program requires careful preparation and strategic planning. Here are some tips for prospective applicants: * **Start Early:** Research participating universities and their program offerings well in advance of application deadlines. This allows ample time to gather documents, write essays, and prepare for language tests. * **Research Thoroughly:** Understand the specific Master's programs available and align your application with the British Council's goals of promoting women in STEM and leadership. * **Craft a Compelling Personal Statement:** Your personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your passion for STEM, your career aspirations, and how this scholarship will enable you to make a significant impact in your home country. Emphasize your experiences, challenges overcome, and future contributions. * **Demonstrate Impact:** Highlight how your chosen field of study and your future work will contribute to addressing societal challenges, particularly in your home country. * **Collect Strong References:** Choose referees who know your academic and/or professional abilities well and can speak to your potential for success in a Master's program and your commitment to STEM. * **Address Eligibility Clearly:** Ensure you clearly demonstrate how you meet all eligibility criteria, particularly regarding your socioeconomic background. * **Proofread Meticulously:** Errors in your application can detract from your credibility. Have multiple people review your essays and documents. * **Contact Universities Directly:** For specific questions about programs, admissions requirements, or the scholarship application process within their institution, reach out to the university admissions teams. * **Stay Organized:** Keep track of all deadlines, required documents, and communication with universities and the British Council. ## Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM, prospective applicants should always refer to the official British Council website: [https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/in-uk/scholarship-women-stem](https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/in-uk/scholarship-women-stem) This brief has been constructed based on the content available on this official page. Any further inquiries or detailed eligibility questions should be directed to the resources provided on the official website, including specific university contacts for application status queries.

Funding information

The funding information below is recorded in this listing; it does not establish additional covered components. Check amounts, caps, exclusions and conditions on the official source.

Fully Funded (includes monetary support, tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, English language support)

British Council Scholarships for women in STEM eligibility

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.

British Council Scholarships for women in STEM document information

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the materials the provider requests.

How to apply for the British Council Scholarships for women in STEM 2026

Follow the provider's stated process. The checks below are guidance, not additional application requirements. Any original editorial instructions remain in the description above.

1
Check the provider's process
Consult https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/in-uk/scholarship-women-stem to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there.
2
Check eligibility and any requested materials
Listed eligibility: Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist.
3
Check dates and next steps
Listed deadline information: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026). Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

British Council Scholarships for women in STEM deadline & application timeline

Provider deadline information: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026). This text cannot be safely converted to a countdown; check the official source for its meaning. The earlier milestones are optional planning suggestions only.

Planning suggestion: 12 months out
Check the current call and decide whether this opportunity fits your plans.
Planning suggestion: 6 months out
If the provider requires tests or documents that take time, plan for them using its published instructions.
Planning suggestion: 3 months out
If an application is required, review the provider's process and prepare only the materials it requests.
Planning suggestion: 1 month out
If submission is required, allow time to check your materials and any stated cutoff.
Provider deadline
Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026)
Provider deadline information: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026). Confirm the current instructions and any cutoff or time zone on the official source; no additional time is assumed here.

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Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the British Council Scholarships for women in STEM?+

Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.

What funding does the British Council Scholarships for women in STEM offer?+

Listed funding: Fully Funded (includes monetary support, tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, English language support). Confirm amounts, exclusions and conditions on the official source. This label does not establish any additional benefit components.

When is the application deadline?+

Provider deadline information: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026). Confirm the current cutoff and any time zone on the official source; no additional cutoff or late-submission policy is assumed here.

What documents do I need to apply?+

No explicit document checklist is recorded here. If an application is required, prepare only the documents requested by the provider; requirements may differ from admission requirements.

How do I check the application process?+

Consult https://www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-abroad/in-uk/scholarship-women-stem to confirm whether consideration is automatic or requires an application, and follow only the process stated there. Listed eligibility: Women from socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts pursuing Master's degrees in STEM fields.. Confirm the current criteria and, if submission is required, use the provider's own checklist. Listed deadline information: Varies by year and university (applications for 2026-27 are closed, shortlisting results by June 2026). Confirm any cutoff, time zone and follow-up process with the provider.

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