Applications for the 2026 WAAW Foundation Scholarship open on October 30, 2026. This scholarship supports young African women pursuing undergraduate degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at universities and colleges across Africa. Eligible students with financial need, strong academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service are encouraged to apply. Register for the ALU English proficiency test 

The scholarship is offered by the WAAW Foundation (Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women), an organization dedicated to increasing access to STEM education for African women and promoting their participation in scientific research, technological innovation, and community development. Through its scholarship program and STEM outreach initiatives, the foundation seeks to empower women to become future leaders and change-makers in their communities.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

Successful applicants will receive the following benefits:

·       Financial support: A one-time scholarship award of $500 to support their education and related academic expenses.

·       STEM leadership development: Opportunities to develop leadership skills through participation in STEM outreach activities.

·       Networking opportunities: Access to the WAAW Scholars community and monthly Fellows Meet-Ups.

·       Community engagement: Opportunities to promote girls' participation in STEM through outreach programs and STEM Chapters at their universities.

·       Virtual orientation and onboarding: Guidance on scholarship expectations, reporting requirements, and available program opportunities.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To qualify for the WAAW Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1.     Be female and of African origin.

2.     Be living and studying in an African country.

3.     Be currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program at a recognized university or college in Africa.

4.     Be in the first or second year of an undergraduate program, or in the third year of a five-year undergraduate program.

5.     Be pursuing a degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM)-related field.

6.     Demonstrate financial need.

7.     Have an excellent academic record.

8.     Demonstrate leadership potential, volunteering experience, and involvement in community service.

9.     Be below 32 years of age.

Important: Students pursuing medicine and nursing are not eligible for this scholarship. However, students studying pharmacy may apply, provided they meet the other eligibility requirements. Register for Third intake of our coaching class for the Duolingo English Test  

The scholarship does not fund master's degrees, MBAs, PhD programs, or second and subsequent degrees.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

The WAAW Foundation Scholarship supports eligible undergraduate students studying STEM-related disciplines, including fields such as:

·       Science

·       Technology

·       Engineering

·       Mathematics

·       Computer Science and Information Technology

·       Other eligible STEM-related disciplines

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Applicants should prepare the following documents and information:

1.     Two academic reference letters: Both letters must be signed. One must be written by a professor from the applicant's institution of study, while the other should come from an academic supervisor, advisor, or mentor.

2.     Scanned student identification card: A clear scanned copy of the applicant's current university or college ID card.

3.     Current university transcript: A signed and sealed copy of the applicant's current academic transcript. This document is required during the second-stage review.

4.     Personal statements and essays: Responses to the essay questions included in the application form.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Interested applicants should follow these steps to apply for the WAAW Foundation Scholarship:

Step 1: Complete the online application form

Open the scholarship link at the bottom to access the official WAAW Foundation Scholarship application form and complete all required sections

Step 2: Participate in the selection process

Applicants whose submissions progress to the second-stage review may be required to provide a signed and sealed copy of their current university transcript.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Scholarship commitments for selected applicants

Students selected for the WAAW Foundation Scholarship must participate actively in the program and fulfill its engagement requirements. These include:

·       Participating in the mandatory virtual orientation and onboarding session.

·       Establishing or joining a WAAW STEM Chapter at their institution.

·       Onboarding at least six fellows and leading a minimum of eight outreach programs focused on empowering girls in STEM.

·       Participating in monthly Fellows Meet-Ups, completing surveys, and engaging with the WAAW Scholars online community.

·       Maintaining communication with the WAAW Foundation and meeting the program's reporting and engagement requirements.

·       Providing consent for the use of their names, photographs, and stories in program communications and media. Register for 2nd intake of our coaching class for the Duolingo English Test  

APPLICATION DEADLINE

The application deadline is December 18, 2026.