4.6K applicants | Application Deadline: April 30, 2026
Applications are currently being accepted for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. This prestigious scholarship program aims to tackle the significant issue of women's underrepresentation in STEM fields by removing financial barriers to education. It offers full funding for one-year master’s degree programs at leading universities and research institutions across the United Kingdom. The scholarships specifically target talented women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to advance their studies in STEM disciplines.
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility criteria apply to applicants under the following British Council Women in STEM Scholarship initiatives:
- The main British Council Women in STEM Scholarships (see list of eligible countries for 2026-27 academic year).
- ASEAN Women in STEM Scholarships for candidates residing in Hong Kong, supported by the Sir Tang Shiu Kin Education Trust.
- Women in STEM Scholarships in Mexico, funded by Fundación Coppel and COPOCYT.
- Women in STEM Scholarships available in Brazil.
- Additional Women in STEM cohorts branded under the same funding scheme.
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Identify as a woman according to UK legal definitions. For detailed guidance, Click here.
- Be permanent residents of, and hold valid passports or internationally recognized travel documents issued by, one of the eligible countries for the scholarship. Applicants must also be able to obtain a UK visa using these documents.
- Commit to returning to their home country of citizenship or permanent residence for at least two years following the completion of their studies, unless exceptional circumstances prevent this due to safety or other critical reasons.
- Fulfill the entry requirements set by the UK higher education institution to which they are applying. This includes meeting academic equivalency standards and English language proficiency.
- Have completed an undergraduate degree at the time of application. Those in their final year of undergraduate study may still be eligible if they will finish the degree before enrolling in the UK master’s course and meet all matriculation criteria.
- Demonstrate financial need for support. Applicants must be unable to fund their studies independently and should not be receiving financial aid that overlaps with the core benefits of this scholarship. However, private savings used to supplement the scholarship are allowed. For more details, Click here.
- Preference is given to candidates without significant prior international exposure or study experience in the UK. Significant exposure is defined as study periods exceeding one month or enrollment in an international degree program. Short-term visits, such as study tours or conferences, do not count as significant experience.
- If applying to multiple institutions, applicants should indicate their preferred course and university clearly.
- Show strong motivation and academic capability to successfully complete a postgraduate taught course in the UK.
- Be active in STEM fields, demonstrated either through professional experience or a proven interest in their chosen subject area.
- Be committed to contributing to capacity building and socio-economic progress in their home country after graduation.
- Agree to maintain contact with the British Council, act as an ambassador for UK-educated women in STEM, and participate in UK alumni activities during and following their studies.
- Have a clear plan and passion for encouraging and supporting other women and girls in STEM disciplines within their home country.
- Consent to the sharing of their personal data with the British Council for scholarship evaluation and promotional activities as part of the application process.
Scholarship Benefits
This program offers comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full scholarship coverage that spans tuition fees, living stipends, travel expenses, visa costs, health insurance, and English language support.
- The total scholarship value is at least £40,000 per recipient, ensuring significant financial relief.
- Access to UK universities renowned globally for their excellence in science and research. The UK ranks second worldwide for science and research quality.
- Enhanced career prospects in STEM, enabling scholarship recipients to foster innovation, research, and development upon returning to their home countries.
- Membership in an active UK alumni network, providing ongoing support, collaboration, and professional growth opportunities.
Further Details and Application
For comprehensive information on eligibility, application procedures, and deadlines, interested candidates are encouraged to Visit the Official Webpage of the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships and begin their application process early.
