Working in partnership with selected UK universities, the British Council’s Women in STEM scholarship programme provides opportunities for women to continue with their studies through funding for a one-year master’s degree in the UK.
When is the Application Deadline?
The application deadlines vary depending on the university. Applicants should check with their chosen institution for specific dates.
Tell Me About The Award:
The British Council STEM Scholarship is a fully funded program that supports female students from eligible countries who wish to pursue a master’s degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) in the United Kingdom. The program also offers fellowships for those who have recently completed a PhD.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Type:
Master’s Degree & Fellowship (Fully Funded)
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM, you must:
- Be a woman, as defined under UK legislation 1.
- Be a permanent resident of, and hold a valid passport or recognised international travel document from, one of the eligible countries listed, and be able to obtain a UK visa using the documentation they hold 2. Applicants must agree to return to their country of citizenship or residence for a minimum of two years after the scholarship ends, except in very exceptional circumstances where return would be impossible or unsafe.
- Meet the entry requirements of the UK Higher Education Institution for the course they apply for, including academic equivalent qualifications and English language proficiency.
- Have completed all components of an undergraduate degree at the time of applying for the scholarship. Students in the final year of their undergraduate degree may be considered if they will have completed their degree in time for enrolment to the Master’s course in the UK and meet all matriculation requirements.
- Demonstrate a case for financial support. Applicants must not be able to fund their UK studies privately and must not receive financial support from any other source 3 that duplicates the core benefits of the scholarship. Private savings that can top up the scholarship is permitted.
- Preference will be given to candidates who have not had any significant international exposure or previously studied in the UK. This includes distance learning at UK universities or studying at UK branch campuses abroad. We define significant experience as a period of study lasting one month or more, or enrollment in or completion of an international degree course. Short-term visits such as study tours or conferences are permitted.
- Indicate their preference for the course and institution if applying to multiple institutions.
- Be motivated and academically able to follow and benefit from a UK postgraduate taught course.
- Be active in the STEM field with work experience or with a proven interest in the proposed subject area.
- Be willing to contribute to capacity-building and socio-economic advancement in their home country after graduating from the Master’s course in the UK.
- Agree to maintain contact with the British Council and act as an ambassador for the UK, and engage with Alumni UK activities during and after their Master’s course in the UK.
- Demonstrate a plan and a passion to engage other women and girls in STEM from their home country.
- Agree to their personal data being shared with the British Council for assessment and purposes of promotional purposes, as a condition of applying for the scholarship.
You are NOT eligible for a British Council Scholarship if you:
- Hold dual British citizenship
- Have previously studied in the UK with funding from a UK government-funded scholarship or a UK institutional scholarship/financial bursary
- Are an employee, a former employee, or a relative of an employee of Her Majesty’s Government (including British Embassies/High Commissions; the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy; Department for International Trade; the Ministry of Defence; and the Home Office)
- Are an employee, a former employee, or a relative of an employee of the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
How Are Applicants Selected?
Candidates are assessed based on:
- Academic and professional background
- Financial need
- Commitment to the STEM field
- Leadership potential and willingness to engage as British Council scholarship alumni
- Work experience or demonstrated interest in STEM
(Eligibility may change each year—applicants should check the official website for updates.)
Where Will the Award be Taken?
The United Kingdom, at selected UK universities.
How Many Awards?
This year, we are working with UK universities to provide up to 90 scholarships to women across 30 countries and territories.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend (for living expenses)
- Travel allowance
- Visa costs
- Health insurance
- Economic support
- English language assistance (IELTS reimbursement for selected applicants)
How Long Will the Award Last?
Typically, one year for a master’s degree.
How to Apply:
- Visit the British Council STEM Scholarship webpage.
- Select your country and review eligible universities.
- Apply for the pre-approved postgraduate program at a partner UK university.
- Submit your application through the respective university portal.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details:
British Council Women in STEM Scholarships

