The British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026-27 is a landmark initiative designed to address the global gender imbalance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By providing full financial backing for one-year Master’s degrees, the program empowers women from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds to access world-class education at leading UK institutions. Consequently, scholars gain the technical expertise and leadership skills necessary to drive innovation in their home countries. Furthermore, this program fosters a global network of female leaders dedicated to mentoring the next generation of girls in STEM.
Program Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Program Title | British Council Women in STEM Scholarships |
| Degree Level | One-year Postgraduate (Master’s) |
| Financial Value | Minimum £40,000 per award (Fully Funded) |
| Cohort Size | Up to 90 scholarships across 30 countries |
| Key Partners | 43 Leading UK Universities (including QMUL, Imperial, Brunel) |
Program Overview
The British Council Women in STEM program operates as a partnership between the British Council and esteemed UK higher education institutions. Specifically, the scholarship aims to support women who have the talent but lack the financial means to pursue high-level academic research. Throughout the 12-month duration, scholars are immersed in advanced laboratory settings and expert mentorship. Therefore, the program not only bridges the academic gap but also builds professional confidence through dedicated networking events and career development training.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026-27, applicants must satisfy the following:
- Academic Status: Hold an undergraduate degree that qualifies for entry into a UK Master’s program.
- Financial Need: Must demonstrate a clear case for financial support and an inability to self-fund.
- Commitment to Return: Applicants must agree to return to their country of citizenship for a minimum of two years after graduation.
- English Proficiency: Meet the English language entry requirements of the specific host university.
- Professional Interest: Show an active interest or work experience in a STEM field and a passion for engaging other women in the sector.
Participating Universities & Regional Deadlines
Deadlines and university pairings vary significantly by region. Specifically, applicants must apply to the university assigned to their home country.
| Region | Participating Universities (Examples) | Application Deadlines |
| South Asia (India, Pakistan, etc.) | QMUL, Brunel, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh | April 19 – April 30, 2026 |
| Wider Europe (Turkey, Azerbaijan, etc.) | Bath, Bradford, Durham | Varies (Check University Site) |
| MENA (Egypt) | Imperial College London, London South Bank | March 25, 2026 |
| ASEAN (Malaysia, Vietnam, etc.) | Stirling, Cranfield, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine | April 30, 2026 |
Learning Outcomes
Successful scholars under this program will:
- Master advanced technical skills within their specific STEM discipline.
- Develop high-level research methodologies at UK institutions ranked 2nd globally for science output.
- Gain membership in the exclusive British Council Alumni Network for lifelong professional support.
- Cultivate leadership abilities to influence policy and innovation in their home regions.
Required Documents
While specific requirements vary by institution, most applications require the following:
- Full Academic Transcripts and Undergraduate Diploma.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) highlighting career goals and financial need.
- Evidence of English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or waiver request).
- Valid Passport and National ID.
- Letter of Recommendation (Academic or Professional).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does the British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM 2026-27 cover child allowances?
Some participating universities, such as Brunel, may provide child allowances for scholars, though restrictions apply. You must check the specific university’s policy.
Can I apply to multiple universities for this scholarship?
Yes, you can apply to more than one university, but you must submit a separate application to each one and ensure they are eligible for your specific country.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is generally no upper age limit for the Women in STEM scholarships, provided you meet the academic entry requirements.
What is the “two-year return” rule?
Recipients must agree to return to their home country for at least two years post-graduation to contribute to local socio-economic development and capacity-building.
Are health insurance and visa fees included?
Yes, the scholarship is fully funded and covers the UK’s Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and the standard student visa application fee.