The British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year are now open. These scholarships aim to support women from 24 countries in pursuing a one-year master’s degree in STEM fields at leading UK universities. In partnership with top universities, the British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships has been running for five years and has awarded over 400 scholarships so far. The British Council scholarships are specifically for women from different countries.
Women are underrepresented in STEM, with fewer leadership roles, lower pay, and limited career opportunities. Despite this, they are 8% more productive on average but publish less than men. The British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships program offers comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees, living stipends, travel costs, and more. Application deadlines vary by institution; therefore, applicants should check specific university deadlines to ensure timely submission.
Institution
- Funded By: British Council
- Host Country: United Kingdom
- Host University: Collaboration with several UK universities
- Program: Masters
- Duration: 1 Year
Eligible Universities for British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2025
Americas (15 Scholarships)
- Imperial College London
- University of Durham
- Essex University
Wider Europe (25 Scholarships)
- Cardiff University
- St George’s, University of London
- Cranfield University
- University of Glasgow
- University of Westminster
East Asia (26 Scholarships)
- The University of Manchester
- University of Warwick
- Queen Mary University of London
- Brunel University
- University of Bristol
Study Areas
The British Council Women in STEM Scholarships 2025 support master’s programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Some of the key study areas include:
- Engineering & Technology: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and AI
- Computer Science & Data Science: Cybersecurity, AI, and Software Development
- Health & Life Sciences: Biotechnology, Medicine, and Public Health
- Environmental Sciences: Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Sustainability
- Mathematics & Statistics: Applied Mathematics and Financial Modeling
Each participating university offers specific STEM-related programs. You should check their official pages for exact course listings.
British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships Benefits:
Recipients of the scholarship will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage.
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Return economy-class airfare to the UK.
- Visa application fees.
- Health coverage fees.
- Support for IELTS exam fees: IELTS exam fees are reimbursed for successful applicants.
- Study at top UK universities with renowned STEM programs.
Benefits Not Included:
While the scholarship is comprehensive, it may not cover:
- Personal expenses beyond the provided stipend.
- Additional travel during the study period.
- Costs associated with dependents.
Eligibility Criteria of British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships:
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Identify as women or non-binary individuals.
- Be a passport holder and permanent resident of one of the eligible countries.
- Demonstrate a need for financial support.
- Hold an undergraduate degree relevant to the chosen STEM field.
- Meet the English language requirements of the selected UK university.
- Be active in the STEM field, either through work experience or demonstrated interest.
- Be passionate about their chosen course and willing to engage as committed British Council scholarship alumni.
- Be able to commence studies in the UK in September/October 2025.
Applicants are ineligible if they:
- Hold dual British citizenship.
- Are employees, former employees, or relatives of employees of His Majesty’s Government or the British Council.
- Are currently receiving financial support or funding for their study program in the UK from another source.
- Have previously studied in the UK with funding from a UK government-funded scholarship or a UK institutional scholarship/financial bursary.
Eligible Regions:
Americas: Brazil, Mexico, Wider Europe: Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, East Asia: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Laos People’s Democratic Republic, Singapore, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, Malaysia, Viet Nam, Hong Kong.
Required Documents:
Applicants typically need to provide:
- Completed application forms for both the university and the scholarship.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS scores).
- A personal statement outlining their interest in the chosen course and its relevance to their career goals.
- Letters of recommendation.
- A current CV or resume.
British Council’s Women in STEM Scholarships Application Process:
- Select a Course and University: Review the list of participating UK universities and their eligible STEM courses.
- Apply to the University: Submit an application for your chosen master’s program directly through the university’s application portal.
- Apply for the Scholarship: After applying to the university, obtain and complete the scholarship application form.
- Submit Required Documents: Ensure all necessary documents are submitted as per the university’s and scholarship’s requirements.
- Await Decision: Universities will review applications and inform candidates of their decisions.
Application deadlines vary by university, so it’s crucial to verify and adhere to each institution’s specific deadline
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance to manage deadlines effectively.
- Tailor Your Personal Statement: Clearly articulate your passion for STEM and how the scholarship will help achieve your career objectives.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any work experience, research, or projects related to your chosen field.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Obtain letters from individuals who can attest to your academic and professional capabilities.
- Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure all application materials are free from errors and present a professional image.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in the UK
The cost of living varies by city, but here’s an estimated breakdown:
- Accommodation: £500 – £1,200 per month (depends on location)
- Food & Groceries: £200 – £400 per month
- Transport: £50 – £150 per month
- Utilities & Internet: £50 – £100 per month
- Personal Expenses: £100 – £300 per month
🔹 Average Total Cost: £1,000 – £2,200 per month
London is the most expensive, while smaller cities like Glasgow, Sheffield, or Newcastle are more affordable.
Why Do You Need to Choose This Opportunity?
- Full Financial Support: The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel, visa, and health coverage, reducing financial burdens.
- World-Class Education: Study at top UK universities with cutting-edge STEM programs and renowned faculty.
- Career Advancement: Gain expertise in high-demand STEM fields, increasing employability and leadership potential.
- Global Networking: Connect with professionals, researchers, and fellow scholars from around the world.
- Empowerment for Women in STEM: This initiative promotes gender equality in STEM fields, encouraging women to excel and contribute to global scientific advancements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I have already studied in the UK?
- No, applicants who have previously received UK government or institutional funding are not eligible.
2. Do I need an admission offer before applying for the scholarship?
- Yes, you must first apply and secure admission to an eligible master’s program at a participating UK university.
3. What if I don’t have an IELTS score yet?
- Some universities may allow conditional admission, but you must provide proof of English proficiency before finalizing your scholarship application.
4. Can I bring my family with me while studying?
- The scholarship does not cover dependents, so you will need to arrange separate funding for family members.
5. When will I know if I have been selected?
- Selection timelines vary by university, but most decisions are communicated by mid-2025 before the academic year begins.