British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026-27: Apply Now
Women face big challenges in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, known as STEM. They make up a small part of these areas, publish less work, earn lower pay, and get fewer chances to lead. Yet studies show women in STEM are often eight percent more productive than men. The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM offer a way to change this by funding master’s degrees in the UK.
About the Scholarship Program
This program supports women from low-income backgrounds to study advanced STEM topics. It removes money barriers so they can attend top UK schools. Now in its sixth year, it helps build more women leaders in STEM around the world. Scholars join a network of professionals who work to improve things back home.
The UK ranks second globally for science and research quality. This makes it a great place for these studies.
What the Scholarship Covers
Each award pays for everything a student needs. This includes full tuition fees, a stipend for living costs, travel and visa expenses, and health insurance. If English skills need work, that gets help too. The total value starts at £40,000 per scholarship.
Extra Benefits
Students attend world-class universities. After graduation, they gain skills to lead in research and innovation. They also join a large group of UK alumni from this program. So far, it has linked with 43 UK universities and given out about 500 scholarships.
Open Applications for 2026-27
Right now, 25 scholarships are up for grabs from South Asia. They partner with five top schools:
- University of Edinburgh
- University of Glasgow
- University of Manchester
- Queen Mary University of London
- Brunel University London
Apply straight through each university’s website. Check the official page for direct links.
Who Can Apply: Key Requirements
You must meet these rules to qualify:
- Be a woman by UK law.
- Live permanently in an eligible country.
- Have a valid passport.
- Meet the school’s academic and English language standards.
- Show you need money help.
- Lack past big chances to study abroad.
- Prove you want to lead in STEM.
- Plan to return home for at least two years after.
- Agree to join alumni events and encourage other women in STEM.
Special rules apply for groups from ASEAN, Hong Kong, Mexico, or Brazil.
How to Apply Step by Step
Go to the university portals to submit. Each school has its own deadline, so check them all. Ask the university about course details. For general questions, email [email protected].
Who Cannot Apply
Skip this if you hold British citizenship or work for the British Council (or a close family member does) in eligible spots.
Full details on rules are at the British Council’s eligibility page.
This program opens doors for women to lead in STEM and help their communities grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM cover?
Each scholarship covers full tuition fees, a living stipend, travel, visa costs, health insurance, and English language support if needed, with a total value starting at £40,000.
Who is eligible to apply for the 2026-27 scholarships?
Women from eligible countries like South Asia, with financial need, who meet academic and English standards, plan to return home for two years, and commit to STEM leadership.
Which universities partner for the 2026-27 scholarships?
The partners are University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of Manchester, Queen Mary University of London, and Brunel University London.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Apply directly through each university’s website, check their deadlines, and email [email protected] for general questions.