British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2026/2027

Job Description

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Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 British Council Women in STEM Scholarships, a programme designed to increase access to higher education for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. This scholarship funds one-year master’s degree programmes at top-ranking UK universities, providing full financial support and opportunities for academic and professional growth.

The programme aims to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM by empowering scholars to gain expertise, enhance career prospects, and contribute to socio-economic development in their home countries.

Overview

• Scholarship Type: Master’s degree scholarship
• Host Country: United Kingdom
• Eligible Applicants: Women from select countries (see list of eligible countries for 2026/2027)
• Funding Value: Full tuition, living stipend, travel, visa, health coverage, and English language support (minimum £40,000)
• Application Deadline: April 30, 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2026/2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a woman as defined under UK legislation
• Be a permanent resident of, and hold a valid passport or recognised international travel document from, an eligible country
• Be able to obtain a UK visa using the documentation held
• Agree to return to their country of residence for at least two years after completing the scholarship, unless exceptional circumstances prevent return
• Meet the entry requirements of the UK university and programme applied for, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency
• Have completed all components of an undergraduate degree at the time of application; final-year students may apply if they will have completed their degree in time for UK enrolment
• Demonstrate financial need and the inability to privately fund UK studies; other overlapping sources of financial support are not permitted
• Preference given to candidates without significant previous study in the UK or international exposure (study tours or conferences under one month are permitted)
• Indicate preferences for course and institution if applying to multiple programmes
• Be academically capable and motivated to pursue a UK master’s course in STEM
• Be active in the STEM field through work experience or demonstrable interest
• Commit to contributing to socio-economic development and capacity-building in their home country post-graduation
• Be willing to engage with the British Council, act as an ambassador for the UK, and participate in alumni activities
• Demonstrate a plan to inspire and support other women and girls in STEM in their home country
• Agree to the sharing of personal data with the British Council for assessment and promotional purposes

Benefits

The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2026/2027 provide comprehensive support, including:

• Full financial support covering tuition, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage, and English language support, with a minimum value of £40,000
• Access to world-class UK universities renowned for science, research, and innovation
• Career development opportunities to advance women’s roles in STEM and promote research, innovation, and socio-economic progress in their home countries
• Alumni networks providing long-term professional connections, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities

The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2026/2027 offer a transformative opportunity for women passionate about STEM to gain world-class education, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the advancement of science and technology in their home countries. Applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline of April 30, 2026.