Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study Opportunity in Sweden 

Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026: Overview

The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship, offered by the Swedish Institute (SI), aims to empower and support outstanding women from Africa and Asia who are ready to lead innovation and drive sustainable change through STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

This fully funded scholarship supports one- or two-year master’s studies at top Swedish universities and helps recipients join a global network of leaders working toward inclusive and sustainable development.

• Applications Open: 9–25 February 2026
• Level: Master’s
• Eligible Regions: Africa and Asia (10 countries listed below)

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a female citizen of one of the eligible countries:
  🇧🇩 Bangladesh, 🇮🇩 Indonesia, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇲🇾 Malaysia, 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇵🇭 Philippines, 🇷🇼 Rwanda, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇻🇳 Vietnam

• Apply to an eligible STEM-related master’s programme taught in English at a Swedish university.

• Be liable to pay tuition fees in Sweden.

• Have at least 3,000 hours of documented work experience (from up to three employers).

• Have proven leadership experience, either through employment or community involvement.

• Not have studied or be currently enrolled at a Swedish university.

• Not hold Swedish or EU/EEA citizenship, or Swedish permanent residency.

You are not eligible if you:

• Have lived in Sweden for 2+ cumulative years before August 2026.

• Have previously received a Swedish Institute scholarship.

Benefits

• The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship is fully funded and includes:
• Full tuition coverage (paid directly to the university)
• Monthly stipend of SEK 12,000 for living expenses
• Travel grant of SEK 15,000 (one-time payment)
•  Access to the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP) for mentorship and collaboration
•  Lifetime membership in the Sweden Alumni Network for continued networking and growth

Not covered:

• Family grants

• Application fees to University Admissions

• Personal or travel insurance

Fellowship Components

• Academic Study: 1–2 years of full-time master’s study in a STEM field.

• Professional Development: Leadership and networking activities through SI’s global network.

• Community Engagement: Opportunities to drive sustainable innovation in home countries.

Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare the following:

• University application through University Admissions Sweden

• Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID)

• Proof of work experience (≥3,000 hours) and leadership experience (using SI template forms)

• Motivation statement linking chosen programme to sustainable development goals

• Reference letters (from employer or community organisation)

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Academic excellence and relevance of chosen programme

• Leadership potential and demonstrated impact

• Professional experience (quality and relevance)

• Commitment to sustainability and community development

• Clarity and strength of motivation statement

Application Process

🧾 Step 1: Apply for up to four master’s programmes in STEM via University Admissions Sweden between 15 October 2025 and 15 January 2026.

🧾 Step 2: Wait for the list of eligible master’s programmes (published mid-November 2025).

🧾 Step 3: Submit your Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship application via the Swedish Institute portal between 9–25 February 2026.

🧾 Step 4: Pay your University Admissions application fee and ensure your supporting documents are complete.

🧾 Step 5: Check results:

• 26 March 2026: University Admission Results

• 23 April 2026: Scholarship Results

Important Dates