The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded academic opportunity for exceptional women from Africa and Asia who want to pursue master’s studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in Sweden.
This prestigious scholarship, funded by the Swedish Institute (SI), aims to empower women to lead innovation, solve complex challenges, and build more sustainable societies. Successful candidates will join a global community of women in STEM, shaping the future.
Overview of the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026
Sweden believes that diversity drives innovation. The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship supports women from 10 eligible countries in Africa and Asia to study at top Swedish universities.
The program offers full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, travel grants, and access to the SI Network for Global Professionals — a powerful platform for collaboration and leadership growth.
Eligible Countries:
Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Philippines, South Africa, and Vietnam.
Eligibility Requirements for Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a female citizen of one of the 10 eligible countries.
- Apply to an eligible STEM master’s program in Sweden.
- Be liable to pay tuition fees at University Admissions.
- Have at least 3,000 hours of relevant work experience.
- Demonstrate leadership experience in their field or community.
- Not have previously received a Swedish Institute scholarship or a Swedish degree.
Scholarship Benefits
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026 provides:
- Full tuition fee coverage for one or two years
- Monthly allowance of SEK 12,000
- Travel grant of SEK 15,000 (one-time)
- Membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP)
- Post-study alumni network and opportunities
NOTE: The scholarship does not cover family expenses, insurance, or application fees.
Application Timeline and Important Dates
- 15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026: Apply for eligible master’s programs via University Admissions.
- 9 – 25 February 2026: Scholarship application portal open.
- 26 March 2026: University admissions results released.
- 23 April 2026: Scholarship recipients announced.
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How to Apply for the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Apply for a Master’s Program
Visit UniversityAdmissions.se and apply by 15 January 2026. - Prepare Required Documents
- CV using the SI template (max 3 pages)
- Proof of work and leadership experience
- Two letters of reference
- Copy of a valid passport or national ID
- Personal motivation statement
- CV using the SI template (max 3 pages)
- Submit Scholarship Application
Submit all documents in the online portal between 9 – 25 February 2026. - Screening and Evaluation
SI will assess all applications based on eligibility, leadership, and motivation. - Final Selection and Notification
Results will be announced on 23 April 2026 on the SI website.
Selection Process and Evaluation
The selection is highly competitive. Applications are scored based on:
- Leadership experience and potential
- Relevant professional background
- Motivation and clarity of goals
- Alignment with STEM and sustainable development goals
Only top applicants from each eligible country will be awarded.
Conclusion
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for women in Africa and Asia to study in Sweden, gain leadership skills, and make an impact in their communities.
Don’t wait until the deadline — prepare your documents early and submit a strong application.
