The gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions is well documented. Women remain underrepresented across the STEM workforce and research teams, are published less, earn lower salaries, and are less likely to reach leadership positions than their male counterparts, despite evidence showing that women are, on average, eight per cent more productive. 

The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships programme aims to increase opportunities for women in STEM, strengthen female leadership in science and innovation, and promote a more diverse and gender-representative sector. 

Access to education remains one of the key barriers contributing to the underrepresentation of women in STEM. This programme addresses that challenge by providing funding for one-year master’s degree programmes at top-ranking universities and research institutions in the UK, specifically for women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Women in STEM Scholarships provide: 

  • Full scholarships, including tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees, and English language support. Each scholarship is worth a minimum of £40,000.
  • Access to world-leading science and research universities, with the UK ranked second globally for science and research excellence. 
  • Career development opportunities, enabling scholars to strengthen their careers in STEM and contribute to research and innovation in their home countries. 
  • Alumni networks, offering long-term connections with the UK’s global alumni community. 

Now entering its sixth consecutive year, the programme has partnered with 43 leading UK universities and awarded approximately 500 scholarships worldwide. 

Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are now open. 

A total of 20 scholarships are available for applicants from the Americas, including Mexico and Brazil, in partnership with four UK universities. 

Applications must be submitted directly to the chosen university. Candidates may apply to more than one university but must complete a separate application for each. 

Before applying, applicants are strongly advised to review the eligibility criteria and the application process for each university, as requirements and deadlines may vary. After submitting an application, all further communication regarding the application status will be handled directly by the university.

For general enquiries about the Women in STEM Scholarships, please contact the British Council at womeninstem.scholarships@britishcouncil.org.

 
Share this