If you are looking for a bursary for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics [STEM] apply for the WAAD Foundation Scholarship for 2026. WAAW (Working to Advance Science and Technology Education for African Women) Foundation, formed in 2007, is an international non-profit organization which aims to empower African Females through STEM Education, Leadership and Entrepreneurship Training.
The Foundation provides various training opportunities, including the “She Hacks Africa Bootcamp”, the “Summer STEM/ Code Camp for Girls”, “STEM Cell College to Secondary Outreach Program”, “STEM Fellows Training Program”, “Academic Scholarships for African College Girls”, “Code School Bootcamp for girls and boys” and “Teachers Training Program”.
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Study Fields to be Covered by WAAD Foundation Scholarship for 2026
You are invited to apply for the WAAD Foundation Scholarship programme for the 2026 academic year.
Scholarships will be awarded to Female students from African countries, for studies towards any qualifications within Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-related fields.
The scholarship does NOT fund Medical and Nursing studies, but it does fund Pharmacy studies.
What the Scholarship Offers
The scholarship will provide a once-off award of $500.
The scholarship is paid in 2 tranches (installments). The first payment is made after the student completes at least 3 outreach activities, and the second payment is made after completion of a total of 6 outreach activities.
Who Qualifies and Who Can Apply for WAAD Foundation Scholarship for 2026
The scholarship selection process includes the following steps: candidates meet eligibility criteria, applicants submit an online application, shortlisting takes place, requests for reference letters, students are individually interviewed, scholarship is awarded.
Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
- You must be Female
- You must be younger than 32 years old
- You must be of African origin
- You must be residing and studying in any African country
- You must be enrolled for studies towards your first undergraduate Bachelor’s degree qualification (Masters, MBA or Phd studies and second or subsequent degrees will NOT be funded)
- You must be studying towards a STEM-related course
- You must be in your 1st or 2nd year of study (or in your 3rd year if studying towards a 5-year course)
- You must be studying at a recognised University or college in any African country
- You must have a strong academic record
- You must have proven financial need
- You must have participated in volunteering, community service and leadership
How to Apply for This Scholarship?
Applications must be submitted online at: WAAW Foundation Scholarship Application 2026
Applicants must have the following information and documents readily available when they apply. Each step must be completed before moving on to the next stage – the application form cannot be saved and resumed and cannot be edited after being submitted.
- Student ID card (scanned copy)
- Personal information and contact details
- Education background and family details
- Essays – these will be strongly considered when making the final selection, so make sure you put a lot of effort and thought into these:
- Essay 1: WAAW is Looking For Women Who Will be Leaders and Change Agents in their Communities, Explain Your Proudest Achievement to Date? (maximum 300 words)
- Essay 2: What Are Your Future Career Goals And How You Expect The WAAW Foundation Scholarship Will Assist In Fulfilling Those Goals? (maximum 300 words)
- Essay 3: Please Describe What You Believe About Female Education In Africa And Its Impact On Research, Development, Or Advancement In African Economy. (maximum 300 words)
- Essay 4: 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. (maximum 200 words)
- Personal statement/ motivational letter (share your story and why you are passionate about STEM. Highlight your academic achievements, leadership skills, and community service. You may also mention challenges you have faced and how you have overcome them)
- 2 academic or professional references (name, relationship to you, organisation and contact details)
Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit the following documents:
- 2 references (academic or professional): 1 from a professor at your institution and 1 from an academic supervisor/ advisor or mentor (these must be emailed by the referee to WAAW)
- Current signed and sealed transcript from your University
When are WAAD Foundation Scholarship Applications Closing?
The closing date for this bursary is 19 December 2025.
How to Contact WAAD Foundation for Bursary Queries
For any queries related to this scholarship programme, please contact the WAAW Foundation directly via this email address scholarships@waawfoundation.org
