With the application window now open for the 2026 cycle, the Swedish Institute (SI) invites women from select African and Asian countries to apply for its prestigious Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship. This fully-funded award is designed to empower female leaders who aspire to drive innovation, address complex global challenges, and foster inclusive, sustainable development through advanced studies in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
The scholarship specifically supports women pursuing master’s degree programs offered by Swedish universities. These programs are taught in English and span various STEM disciplines, providing an opportunity for outstanding candidates to engage in one- or two-year full-time studies. Beyond financial aid, recipients gain access to the SI Network for Global Professionals, an exclusive community designed to facilitate collaboration, continuous learning, and professional networking with future leaders worldwide. Through this platform, scholars contribute to shaping the future growth and innovation potential of their home countries.
Eligibility and Application Criteria
The scholarship is awarded annually for master’s programs starting in the autumn semester. To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Identify as female and hold citizenship in one of the 10 eligible countries in Africa and Asia.
- Apply to a STEM-related master’s program recognized under the Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship scheme.
- Be subject to tuition fees as per University Admissions.
- Demonstrate documented work experience, along with proven leadership roles either in employment or community engagement.
- Have no prior receipt of an SI scholarship for studies nor hold a Swedish university degree.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be female citizens of the following countries to be considered:
- Bangladesh
- Indonesia
- Kenya
- Malaysia
- Nigeria
- Philippines
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Master’s Programs and University Admissions
The detailed list of qualifying English-taught master’s programs in STEM will be released by mid-November 2025. Candidates must apply through the University Admissions portal and be admitted — either conditionally or unconditionally — to one of these approved programs by the official admissions announcement date.
It is crucial that applicants:
- Are liable to pay tuition fees. You can verify your tuition fee status here.
- Submit the application fee on time directly to University Admissions. Relevant deadlines can be found by clicking Find all the key dates here.
- Are admitted to the eligible master’s program on admissions day; being listed as a reserve does not qualify for scholarship consideration.
Note that the scholarship does not accommodate late admissions or program changes once awarded.
Work and Leadership Experience Requirements
Applicants need to provide evidence of practical work experience coupled with leadership skills. Such leadership may be demonstrated through responsibilities held in current or previous professional positions or through active engagement in civil society organizations. This criterion underscores the scholarship’s aim to support women who have already begun contributing meaningfully to their fields and communities.
Scholarship Benefits
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship is a highly competitive, fully-funded program that offers a comprehensive financial package, including:
- Full coverage of tuition fees, with payments made directly by the Swedish Institute to the university each semester.
- A monthly stipend of SEK 12,000 to assist with living costs throughout the duration of the studies.
- A one-time travel grant of SEK 15,000 to cover travel expenses, applicable to students residing outside Sweden.
- Exclusive membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals, providing opportunities for professional growth and networking while studying in Sweden.
- After completing their scholarship period, recipients join the Sweden Alumni Network, offering ongoing access to networking and career development resources worldwide.
Important: The scholarship does not cover insurance costs, and applicants are advised to inquire with their respective universities about insurance provisions for international students. It also does not provide additional family grants, reimburse the University Admissions application fee, or allow changes or extensions to the awarded study program or scholarship duration.
Key Dates to Remember
- 15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026: Submit applications for master’s programs through University Admissions.
- Mid-November 2025: Publication of application guidelines and list of eligible master’s programs for the Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship.
- 9–25 February 2026: Open period to submit scholarship applications via the SI portal.
- 26 March 2026: Announcement of university admissions results.
- 23 April 2026: Official scholarship award notification.
For further details, application instructions, and updates, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Swedish Institute Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship.
