British Council Launches Women in STEM Scholarships

• The Women in STEM Scholarships offered by the British Council are intended to close the gender gap
• Women are productive in research but are not well-represented in leadership
• Gender inequality in STEM hinders innovation and growth

The British Council's Women in STEM Scholarships initiative has been set up in response to the continuing challenge of gender inequality within the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Despite the evidence that women are generally more productive than men when it comes to research and developing new technology, women remain poorly represented, underpaid and much less likely to be in senior or junior positions compared to men.

The existing gender differences in these areas prevent the development of scientific knowledge, supporting economic and innovative development.

The Programme has now been delivered for a sixth year, and has worked with 43 Leading UK Universities and through the Woman in STEMs has supported 500 scholarships.

The program provides 90 scholarships for 30 eligible nations for women pursuing their post-secondary education during 2026-2027 for students entering universities outside of Canada (to receive 1/90, rules apply, see eligibility details DVAS).

Each scholarship consists of $40,000+ worth of benefits (tuition, assistance with living expenses, travel, visa & health insurance).

Help with English language training is included; treasuring scholars will help develop their skills and grow professionally.

Scholars will attend top-rated universities with outstanding mentorship support from scientists in one of the world's most significant research countries (2nd in the world for science/research).

After completing their degrees, they are expected to return home to lead the STEM fields and help develop research and strengthen their country’s ecosystem.

In order to qualify for a scholarship, they must be a in a related field who comes from a socio-economic disadvantaged background and demonstrates high levels of academic achievement, leadership potential and a commitment to helping others develop future technologies in STEM.

Scholarships will cover all costs incurred while attending school – such as tuition, books, internet fees, and housing costs – and also include access to an alumni association which can continue to provide support after you graduate from your program.