WAAW Foundation Scholarship (For African Women in STEM) – 2026
The WAAW Foundation Scholarship supports young African women pursuing undergraduate STEM degrees across Africa. The scholarship promotes female participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through financial assistance and leadership development.
Scholarship Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Provider | WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation |
| Target Group | Female students from African countries |
| Closing Date | 19 December 2025 |
| Coverage | Once-off award of $500, paid in two tranches after outreach activities |
Eligible Fields and Study Levels
Fields of Study
- Any STEM-related field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Includes: Pharmacy
- Excludes: Medical & Nursing studies
Study Levels
- Must be pursuing your first undergraduate Bachelor's degree
- Not eligible: Masters, MBA, PhD, or second/third degrees
- Must be in:
- 1st year OR
- 2nd year OR
- 3rd year (only for 5-year courses)
Eligibility Requirements
- Female and of African origin
- Must be studying in an African country
- Must be under 32 years old
- Strong academic performance
- Proven financial need
- Active in volunteering, leadership, or community service
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online. The form cannot be saved or edited after submission.
1. Online Application & Essay Questions
➡ Apply Online: WAAW Foundation Scholarship Application 2026
Applicants must submit the following essays (strict word limits):
- Essay 1 (300 words): Describe your proudest achievement.
- Essay 2 (300 words): State your future career goals and how the scholarship will help.
- Essay 3 (300 words): Your views on female education in Africa and its impact on development.
- Essay 4 (200 words): Explain your financial needs and how the funds will support you.
2. Required Documents (Initial Submission)
- Scanned copy of Student ID
- Personal statement/motivational letter
- Two academic or professional references (names, relationship, organisation, contact details)
3. Documents for Shortlisted Candidates
- Signed and sealed official transcript
- Two official references emailed directly by:
- A professor at your institution
- An academic supervisor/advisor/mentor
Contact Information
For queries, contact the WAAW Foundation:
Email: scholarships@waawfoundation.org
WAAW Foundation Scholarship (For African Women in STEM)
| Detail | Information |
| Provider | WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation. |
| Target Group | Female students from African countries. |
| Closing Date | 19 December 2025 |
| Coverage | Once-off award of $500. Paid in two tranches after completing outreach activities. |
Eligible Fields and Study Levels
Fields of Study:
Any qualification within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-related fields.
Includes: Pharmacy studies.
Excludes: Medical and Nursing studies.
Study Level:
Must be enrolled for your first undergraduate Bachelor's degree qualification.
Excludes: Masters, MBA, PhD, and second or subsequent degrees.
Must be in your 1st or 2nd year of study (or in your 3rd year if pursuing a 5-year course).
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy all the following minimum criteria:
Gender and Origin: Must be Female and of African origin.
Residency: Must be residing and studying in any African country at a recognized University or college.
Age: Must be younger than 32 years old.
Academics: Must have a strong academic record.
Financial Need: Must have proven financial need.
Community Involvement: Must have participated in volunteering, community service, and leadership activities.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online, and the form cannot be saved and resumed or edited after submission.
1. Online Application and Essay Questions
Apply online using the following link:
Applicants must prepare and submit the following four essays (word limits are strict):
Essay 1 (max 300 words): WAAW is looking for women who will be leaders and change agents. Explain your proudest achievement to date.
Essay 2 (max 300 words): What are your future career goals and how you expect the WAAW Foundation Scholarship will assist in fulfilling those goals?
Essay 3 (max 300 words): Describe what you believe about female education in Africa and its impact on research, development, or advancement in the African economy.
Essay 4 (max 200 words): Tell us about your need or personal/family/financial situation and how the funds from the WAAW Scholarship will assist your education and/or career plans.
2. Required Documents (Initial Submission)
Scanned copy of your Student ID card.
Personal statement/motivational letter (share your story, passion for STEM, academic achievements, leadership, community service, and challenges overcome).
2 academic or professional references (provide name, relationship to you, organization, and contact details).
3. Documents for Shortlisted Candidates
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit:
Current signed and sealed transcript from your University.
2 Official References (academic or professional) emailed directly by the referee to WAAW:
One from a professor at your institution.
One from an academic supervisor/advisor or mentor.
Contact Information
For any queries regarding the scholarship, contact the WAAW Foundation directly:
Email: scholarships@waawfoundation.org
