The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2025, offered by the Swedish Institute (SI), provides a fully funded opportunity for women from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam to pursue a master’s degree in Sweden. This scholarship aims to empower the next generation of female leaders to drive change, address global challenges, and create sustainable solutions aligned with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Sweden is known for its world-class education, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. The fully funded scholarship for women supports a wide range of English-taught master’s programs in core STEM fields. As a participant, you’ll gain valuable knowledge, foster innovative thinking, and contribute positively to both global initiatives and your home country.
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for women eager to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities through advanced education in STEM.
Quick Overview of the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2025
- Host Country: Sweden
- Host Institution: Various Swedish Universities
- Scholarship Provider: Swedish Institute (SI)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degree (One or Two Years)
- Fields of Study: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Eligible Countries: Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam
- Application Period: October 15, 2024 – January 15, 2025
- Scholarship Announcement Date: April 24, 2025
- Program Start Date: Autumn Semester 2025
- Scholarship Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver, monthly stipend, travel grant, membership in SI networks
- Number of Scholarships: Not specified
What’s Included in the Scholarship for Women
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship is a competitive, fully funded scholarship that includes:
- The tuition fee is paid directly by SI to your Swedish university at the beginning of each semester.
- SEK 12,000 (approximately USD 1,400) to cover living expenses throughout the study period.
- A one-time payment of SEK 15,000 (approximately USD 1,750) to cover travel expenses.
- Not applicable for students already living in Sweden.
- Membership in a platform that helps you grow professionally and build a network while in Sweden.
- After your scholarship period ends, you become a member of the SI Alumni Network, offering opportunities for continued networking and professional development.
The Women in STEM Scholarships Does Not Include
- The scholarship does not include insurance coverage. It is recommended to check with your university about the insurance they provide for international students.
- Additional grants for family members are not provided.
- The scholarship does not cover the application fee to University Admissions.
- The scholarship does not allow changes to the awarded master’s program or extensions to the scholarship period.
Benefits of the STEM Masters’ Scholarships for Women 2025
- Access to world-class education in Sweden’s leading universities.
- Exposure to cutting-edge innovation and research in STEM fields.
- Complete financial assistance covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Membership in the SI Network for Future Global Professionals.
- Opportunities to build a global professional network.
- Experience Sweden’s rich culture and commitment to sustainability.
- Engage with international students and professionals.
- Be part of a network contributing to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
- Develop solutions to global challenges and drive development in your home country.
Eligibility Criteria of the Fully Funded Scholarships for Women In STEM
- Must be a female citizen of one of the following countries:
- Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam
- Dual citizenship holders must choose one eligible citizenship when applying.
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an internationally recognized university.
- Not Eligible If:
- You have already been awarded an SI Scholarship for master’s studies.
- You have completed a master’s program or obtained a degree from a Swedish university.
- You have resided in Sweden for more than two years before the scholarship application.
- Must apply and be admitted to one of the eligible master’s programs at Swedish universities through University Admissions by March 27, 2025.
- Must meet the English language requirements set by the university and University Admissions.
- Must be required to pay tuition fees to Swedish universities (non-EU/EEA citizens).
- Must not be currently enrolled in a master’s program at a Swedish university.
Important Dates of the Swedish Institute Scholarships for Women
- October 15, 2024: The application period opens for master’s programs at University Admissions.
- January 15, 2025: Deadline to apply for master’s programs at University Admissions.
- February 3, 2025: Deadline to pay the application fee and submit supporting documents to University Admissions.
- November 1, 2024 – January 15, 2025: Inform SI of your application by filling out the confirmation form.
- March 27, 2025: Notification of selection results from University Admissions.
- April 24, 2025: Announcement of SI Scholarship recipients.
- Autumn 2025: Start of the master’s programs in Sweden.
How to Apply for the Scholarship for African and Asian Women 2025
1. Select an Eligible Master’s Program at the Swedish Institute
- A full list of designated English-taught master’s programs focusing on STEM has been published on November 1, 2024. Choose from the List of Eligible Programs:
- Ensure the program aligns with one or more core areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
2. Apply Through University Admissions for a Master’s Program
- Visit University Admissions and create an account.
- Apply to one or more eligible master’s programs between October 15, 2024, and January 15, 2025.
- Pay the application fee of SEK 900 by February 3, 2025.
- The fee is non-refundable and is separate from the scholarship application.
- Upload required documents such as transcripts, diplomas, and proof of English proficiency by February 3, 2025.
3. Notify SI of Your Application for Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship
- Inform SI that you have applied for an eligible program by completing the form:
- Pioneering Women In STEM – Confirmation of University Application (Link to be provided on SI website).
- You will not receive a confirmation email upon submitting the form.
4. Receive Notifications for the Admission and Women in STEM Scholarship
- March 27, 2025: Receive notification of selection results from University Admissions.
- April 24, 2025: Receive notification from the Swedish Institute regarding scholarship acceptance.
- University-Specific Instructions:
- Each university may have additional processes for scholarship candidates.
- Contact the university you have applied to for any specific instructions.
Required Documents for the SI Scholarships in Sweden for Women in STEM
- For University Admissions:
- Academic Transcripts and Diplomas: Certified copies in original language and translated into English.
- Proof of English Proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent tests as required by the program.
- Passport Copy: Valid identification showing citizenship.
- Application Fee Payment Proof: Confirmation of application fee payment.
- For SI Scholarship (if required by the university):
- Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in the program and how it aligns with your career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation: From academic or professional referees.
- CV or Resume: Highlighting education, work experience, and relevant achievements.
- Additional Documents: As specified by the university or SI.
Eligible Master’s Programs for the Swedish Institute Women in Scholarships
A comprehensive list of eligible master’s programs has been available on November 1, 2024. The programs span various fields within STEM, including but not limited to:
- Engineering Disciplines: Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Environmental, Software Engineering, etc.
- Technology and Computer Science: Data Science, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Information Systems, etc.
- Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Ecology, etc.
- Interdisciplinary Programs: Sustainable Development, Innovation and Design, Industrial Management, etc.
Note: Applicants should ensure the program they choose is included in the designated list for the scholarship.
Country-Specific Criteria to Study in Sweden on the Pioneering Women in STEP Scholarship
- If you hold dual citizenship from eligible countries, choose one to apply with.
- If one of your citizenships is from an EU/EEA country or Sweden, you are not eligible.
- You do not need to reside in your country of citizenship at the time of application.
- Applicants with dual citizenship in countries not listed on the DAC list of ODA recipients 2025-2026 are not eligible.
Embark on a transformative journey to become a leader in STEM. Apply for the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2025 and make a lasting impact on the world!
For more information please visit the official Swedish Institute website.
