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Women in STEM Scholarship 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Application Process & Benefits

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Praful Bhatnagar
College Admin | Updated on Feb 6, 2026

Women in STEM Scholarship 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Application Process & Benefits: British Council Women in STEM 2026:
The British Council has announced 25 fully funded Master’s scholarships for women from South Asia who wish to study at leading universities in the UK during the 2026–2027 academic session. Each scholarship is valued at over £40,000 and is designed for aspiring female leaders who aim to return to their home countries and contribute to STEM-led innovation and socioeconomic progress.


British Council Women in STEM 2026:
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the British Council has rolled out its highly regarded Women in STEM Scholarships, a fully funded initiative created to reduce gender gaps in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The program focuses on empowering women by giving them the opportunity to lead research, innovation, and policy change, thereby supporting the creation of a more inclusive and balanced global STEM community.

The scholarship program is being offered in partnership with five renowned UK universities: the University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of Manchester,Queen Mary University of London, and Brunel University London. Through this collaboration, 25 postgraduate scholarships are available for applicants from South Asian countries, including India.

Each scholarship, valued at a minimum of £40,000, covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance,round-trip airfare, visa charges, and health insurance. Beyond financial support, awardees benefit from access to the UK’s second-largest research ecosystem globally and become part of an extensive international alumni network, opening doors to global collaboration and career advancement.

The initiative specifically targets women with strong academic backgrounds and a clear interest in STEM who are committed to returning to their home country for at least two yearsafter completing their studies to contribute to national development. Through this effort, the British Council seeks to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, preparing future women scientists to lead international research and promote sustainable development.

How to Apply For the STEM Scholarship 2026 For Women?

To apply for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship 2026–2027, candidates must follow a two-step application process involving both the UK university and the British Council.

  • Choose an Eligible University:
    Visit the official British Council website to identify the five South Asia partner universities—Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester, Queen Mary, and Brunel.

  • Select an Approved Course:
    Review the list of eligible one-year postgraduate STEM programs offered by your chosen university and ensure that your academic qualifications meet the course requirements.

  • Apply for Admission:
    Submit your application directly through the university’s official website. A valid offer of admission is usually required to be considered for the scholarship.

  • Fill Out Scholarship Application:
    Download and complete the separate British Council Women in STEM Scholarship application form, typically available on the university’s scholarship portal.

  • Demonstrate Financial Need:
    Provide a compelling statement of purpose highlighting your leadership skills, financial need, and commitment to encouraging greater participation of women in STEM fields.

  • Keep Track of Deadlines:
    Ensure all documents are submitted within the deadlines specified by the university, generally between March and April 2026. Successful candidates are usually informed by June 2026.

STEM Scholarship 2026: Eligibility And Fee

The fully funded STEM Scholarship 2026, with a minimum value of £40,000, is aimed at supporting women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential in science and technology.

Category Details & Requirements

Gender & Residency

Must be a woman (as defined by UK legislation) and a permanent resident of an eligible South Asian country (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, or Sri Lanka).

Academic Status

Must have completed an undergraduate degree or be in the final year (ready to enroll by September 2026). Must meet the specific entry requirements of the chosen UK university.

Financial Status

Must demonstrate a case for financial support and an inability to privately fund studies in the UK.

Professional Intent

Must be active in the STEM field with work experience or proven interest. Commitment to return to the home country for at least 2 years post-graduation is mandatory.

Language Skills

Must meet the English language proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS) of the host university.

Exclusions

Candidates with significant prior international study exposure (over 1 month) or dual British citizenship are generally ineligible.

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