Apply Now For WAAW Foundation 2026 Scholarship

The Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women (WAAW) Foundation has opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Programme.

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It offers a one-time financial award of $500 to female African undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

The scholarship aims to empower young African women to achieve their academic goals, overcome financial barriers and contribute to advancing women’s participation in STEM education across the continent.

Beyond financial assistance, the programme encourages recipients to develop leadership skills, participate in community service and inspire younger girls to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

About the WAAW Foundation Scholarship

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship supports female university students across Africa who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need and a strong commitment to community development.

Successful applicants will receive a $500 scholarship, disbursed in two instalments based on their participation in STEM outreach activities and fulfilment of the programme’s requirements.

Scholars are also expected to engage with the Foundation’s STEM Outreach Chapters at their respective institutions, helping to promote STEM education and encourage more girls to pursue careers in science and technology.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the WAAW Foundation 2026 Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be female and of African origin.
• Be living and studying in an African country.
• Be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree programme at a recognised university or college in Africa.
• Be in their first or second year of study, or third year if enrolled in a five-year degree programme.
• Be pursuing a course related to Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Have an excellent academic record.
• Show evidence of leadership, volunteering and community service.
• Be below 32 years of age.

Important: Medical and Nursing students are not eligible. However, students studying Pharmacy may apply. The scholarship does not support postgraduate programmes, including Master’s, MBA or PhD degrees, or second and subsequent degrees.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

• A one-time scholarship award of $500.
• Financial support to assist with their undergraduate education.
• Opportunities to participate in STEM outreach and community engagement programmes.
• Access to leadership development and virtual orientation.
• Opportunities to join or establish WAAW STEM Chapters at their universities.
• Participation in a network of young African women in STEM.

The scholarship is paid in two instalments. The first payment follows the completion of at least three STEM outreach activities, while the second is released after the scholar completes six outreach activities and fulfils other programme requirements.

Required Documents

Applicants are expected to prepare the following documents:

1. Two reference letters: one from a professor at their institution and another from an academic supervisor, adviser or mentor.
2. A scanned copy of their student identification card.
3. A signed and sealed copy of their current university transcript, required during the second-stage review.

Applicants should also prepare a strong personal statement outlining their passion for STEM, academic achievements, leadership experience, community involvement and future aspirations.

Application Deadline

The deadline for the WAAW Foundation 2026 Scholarship is December 18, 2026.

Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to begin their applications early to ensure they have sufficient time to prepare the required documents and complete the submission process.

How to Apply

Eligible applicants should visit the official WAAW Foundation scholarship website, review the application guidelines and complete the online application form.

Application Portal: https://waawfoundation.org/scholarship/

For further enquiries, applicants can contact the Foundation via scholarship@waawfoundation.org.

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship provides an opportunity for young African women to access financial assistance while developing the skills, experience and leadership needed to contribute to STEM advancement and inspire the next generation of female innovators.