Overview
The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026-2027 aim to empower women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This program provides funding for one-year Master's degree programs at leading universities and research institutions in the United Kingdom. It specifically targets women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM and foster female leadership and diversity in the sector.
Coverage
This is a fully-funded scholarship. It covers tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, and English language support. Each scholarship is valued at a minimum of £40,000. Scholars will gain access to world-leading science and research universities in the UK, enhance their career opportunities in STEM, and benefit from extensive alumni networks.
Eligibility
Applicants must be women, as defined under UK legislation. They must be a permanent resident of, and hold a valid passport or recognized international travel document from, one of the eligible countries (Ethiopia is generally considered eligible as a developing country in Sub-Saharan Africa, fitting the "socioeconomically and disadvantaged contexts" criteria). Applicants must be able to obtain a UK visa and agree to return to their country of citizenship or residence for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends, unless exceptional circumstances prevent it. They must meet the entry requirements of the chosen UK higher education institution, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree at the time of application submission; final-year undergraduate students may be considered if they will complete their degree before enrollment. A clear case for financial support must be demonstrated, indicating an inability to privately fund UK studies and not receiving duplicate financial support from other sources (private savings to supplement the scholarship are allowed). Preference is given to candidates who have not had significant international exposure or previously studied in the UK (defined as over one month of study or completion of an international degree). Applicants must be motivated and academically capable of benefiting from a UK postgraduate taught course, and be active in the STEM field with relevant work experience or a proven interest in the proposed subject area. They must be willing to contribute to capacity-building and socio-economic advancement in their home country after graduating, agree to maintain contact with the British Council and act as an ambassador for the UK, and engage with Alumni UK activities. Applicants must also demonstrate a plan and passion to engage other women and girls in STEM from their home country, and agree to personal data sharing with the British Council for assessment and promotional activities. Note that separate eligibility criteria apply for scholarships for women in Hong Kong and those supported by COPOCYT (San Luis Potosi), but these specific restrictions do not apply to general applicants.
Requirements
Required documents and qualifications include proof of undergraduate degree completion (or current enrollment with expected completion), evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), documentation demonstrating financial need, a valid passport or recognized international travel document from an eligible country, and a strong motivation and academic background suitable for a UK Master's program in STEM. Evidence of engagement or interest in STEM fields is also necessary.
How to apply
Applications are submitted directly through the official British Council website. Applicants should visit the official scholarship page, review the specific university partners and their deadlines, and follow the application instructions provided there.
Notes
The application deadline varies by university. This scholarship is for the 2026-2027 academic year.
