WAAW Foundation STEM Scholarship 2026/2027 for African Women

The WAAW Foundation (Working to Advance African Women) supports young African women studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Every year it awards scholarships to promising female undergraduates at universities across Africa, and asks scholars to help inspire more girls into STEM through community outreach.

The 2026/2027 applications are expected to open in November 2026.

Award

• US$500 per scholar, paid in the local currency
• Paid in two parts, linked to the scholar's STEM outreach activities in her community

Who can apply

• A female student of African origin, living and studying in Africa
• Enrolled in a bachelor's degree in a STEM field
• In your first or second year (third year for five-year programmes)
• Under 32 years old
• Strong academic results and financial need
• A commitment to leadership and community service

Eligible fields

• Engineering
• Computer science and IT
• Mathematics, statistics and physics
• Environmental and agricultural sciences
• Biochemistry, pharmacy and biomedical sciences

Not eligible: medicine and surgery, nursing, optometry, business, social sciences and humanities, as well as master's, MBA, PhD or second degrees.

How to apply

1. Complete the online application form on the WAAW Foundation website when applications open.
2. If shortlisted, write essays about your career goals and how the scholarship will help you.
3. Attend an interview and submit two reference letters (one from a lecturer and one from an academic adviser or mentor) plus your transcript and school ID.
4. Final awardees are announced.

Key dates

Tips

• Line up your referees now: a lecturer and an academic adviser or mentor.
• Show your community impact. WAAW values girls who are already helping others into STEM.
• Keep your transcript and school ID ready to scan.
• Applying is free. Never pay anyone who promises a WAAW scholarship.