The Swedish Institute has announced the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarships 2026—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting talented women from Asia and Africa to pursue master’s studies in Sweden. This fully funded scholarship seeks to empower women who are eager to lead in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields while advancing sustainable development and innovation in their home countries.
Purpose of the Scholarship
Sweden has long championed gender equality and innovation, recognizing that diversity is key to solving global challenges. Through this program, the Swedish Institute provides women with the opportunity to study at top Swedish universities and become catalysts for change in their societies. Recipients will not only gain advanced technical knowledge but also join the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP)—a global platform connecting emerging leaders in sustainability and innovation.
Who Can Apply?
This scholarship is exclusively available to women holding citizenship from one of the ten eligible countries: Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, South Africa, Thailand, and Vietnam. Applicants must be liable to pay tuition fees in Sweden, have at least 3,000 hours of verified work experience, and show clear evidence of leadership potential through their careers or civil society involvement.
Candidates should apply to an English-taught master’s program in a STEM discipline, such as environmental engineering, data science, biotechnology, or renewable energy. The specific list of eligible master’s programs for the 2026–2027 academic year will be published in mid-November 2025.
Scholarship Coverage
The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship offers full financial support, making it one of the most generous international awards for women in science and technology. It includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage paid directly to the university.
- A monthly living allowance of SEK 12,000 throughout the study period.
- A one-time travel grant of SEK 15,000.
- Professional membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals.
- Post-scholarship membership in the Sweden Alumni Network for ongoing development and collaboration.
Please note that this scholarship does not cover family members, application fees, or insurance. Students already residing in Sweden are not eligible for the travel grant.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a female citizen of one of the eligible countries.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree and apply for a master’s program in a STEM field.
- Demonstrate work and leadership experience of at least 3,000 hours.
- Be liable for tuition fees at Swedish universities.
- Have paid the University Admissions application fee before the deadline.
- Not have previously received an SI scholarship or hold a Swedish degree.
Applicants with dual citizenships in non-eligible countries are not permitted to apply under both nationalities.
Application Timeline
To help you plan your application smoothly, here is the official timeline for the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarships 2026 offered by the Swedish Institute. Mark these important dates to ensure you don’t miss any crucial steps in the process:
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15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026: Submit your application for eligible master’s programs in Sweden through the official University Admissions portal.
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Mid-November 2025: The Swedish Institute will publish the complete list of eligible STEM master’s programs and release detailed scholarship application instructions.
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9 February – 25 February 2026: The Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship application window opens for two weeks. Applicants must submit all required documents during this period via the SI online portal.
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26 March 2026: University Admissions results are officially announced. Applicants must be admitted or conditionally admitted to an eligible master’s program to remain in consideration.
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23 April 2026: The Swedish Institute announces the final list of scholarship recipients for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Following this timeline is essential for all applicants who wish to study in Sweden under the Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship 2026. Make sure to prepare your documents early, check the eligibility requirements carefully, and apply within the given deadlines to maximize your chances of selection.