The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026–27 are fully funded scholarships that enable women from eligible countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at leading universities in the United Kingdom. The programme aims to increase female representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by supporting talented women who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to advancing STEM in their home countries.
The scholarship covers all major study-related expenses, allowing recipients to focus on their education while developing the skills needed to become future leaders in STEM.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Funding Organization: British Council
- Study Level: Master’s (One-Year)
- Eligible Countries: Selected participating countries
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: Varies by participating university
About the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM
The British Council Women in STEM Scholarship Programme was established to encourage greater participation of women in STEM disciplines, where female representation remains low globally.
The programme partners with leading UK universities to offer fully funded master’s scholarships to women with strong academic backgrounds who are passionate about using STEM knowledge to create positive change in their communities.
Successful scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies and contribute to national development through education, research, innovation, or industry.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Round-trip travel expenses.
- Visa application fees.
- Health coverage during the scholarship period.
- English language support where required.
- Some participating universities may cover IELTS examination fees.
- Additional support for scholars with children (available at selected universities).
- Opportunity to study at leading UK universities.
- Scholarship package worth a minimum of £40,000.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a woman from one of the eligible participating countries, as defined under UK legislation.
- Hold an undergraduate degree in a STEM-related discipline.
- Meet the admission requirements for an eligible one-year master’s programme at a participating UK university.
- Demonstrate financial need and be unable to fund their studies independently.
- Meet the English language requirements of their chosen university.
- Be actively engaged in their field through professional work, research, or demonstrated interest.
- Not be receiving another scholarship that duplicates the core benefits of this programme.
- Be available to begin studies in September or October 2026.
- Be willing to return to their home country for at least two years after completing their studies to contribute to socio-economic development.
- Not hold dual British citizenship.
Preference may be given to applicants who have not previously studied in the UK or who have had limited international study or work experience.
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to women from selected countries and territories, including:
- Albania
- Azerbaijan
- Bangladesh
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei Darussalam
- Cambodia
- Egypt
- Hong Kong
- India
- Indonesia
- Kazakhstan
- Kosovo
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- Montenegro
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- North Macedonia
- Pakistan
- Philippines
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Timor-Leste
- Turkey
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
Application Deadline
The application deadline varies by participating university. Applicants should check the deadline for their chosen university before applying.
How to Apply
To apply for the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM:
- Visit the official British Council Women in STEM scholarship webpage.
- Select your country to view participating UK universities and eligible programmes.
- Choose an eligible master’s programme offered by a participating university.
- Apply for admission directly through your selected university.
- Complete the university’s scholarship application and upload all required documents.
- Carefully review your application before submission.
- Submit your application before the deadline set by your chosen university.