Hey future leaders and innovators! Are you a South African woman passionate about making a difference in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM)? Then buckle up, because the Swedish Institute (SI) Pioneering Women in STEM Bursary 2026 is calling your name!
This incredible opportunity is designed to empower talented women like you from Africa and Asia to pursue your Master’s studies in Sweden, fully funded, and become a leader in your field. Imagine studying abroad, gaining world-class knowledge, and joining a global network of professionals – all without worrying about tuition fees. Sounds amazing, right? Let’s dive into how you can make this dream a reality!
The Swedish Institute (SI) Pioneering Women in STEM Bursary is an incredible opportunity for talented women from select countries in Africa and Asia (yes, including South Africa!) to pursue their Master’s studies in Sweden. This competitive, fully-funded bursary is all about empowering future female leaders who are passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
If you dream of leading innovation, tackling complex challenges, and contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable world, this bursary is designed for YOU! You’ll gain world-class education in Sweden and become part of the prestigious SI Network for Global Professionals, fostering collaboration and lifelong connections.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this life-changing bursary, you need to tick a few important boxes. The scholarship is open once a year for Master’s studies starting in the autumn semester. Make sure you meet these requirements:
- You must be a female citizen of one of the 10 eligible countries in Africa and Asia. Good news: South Africa is on the list! Other eligible countries include Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Nigeria, Philippines, Rwanda, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- You must apply to a STEM-related Master’s programme that is eligible for the Pioneering Women in STEM bursary.
- You must be liable to pay tuition fees at University Admissions (Sweden’s central application portal).
- You need to have documented work experience and demonstrated leadership experience from your current or previous employer, or from civil society engagement.
- You must not have previously received an SI scholarship for studies or hold a Swedish degree.
Heads-up: The official list of eligible English-taught Master’s programmes for the 2026/2027 academic year will be published in mid-November 2025.
What Does It Cover?
This is a seriously comprehensive bursary! The SI Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship is a fully-funded opportunity that includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage: SI pays your university directly each semester, so you don’t have to worry about the cost of your studies.
- A monthly allowance of SEK 12,000: This generous amount is designed to cover your living expenses throughout your study period.
- A travel grant of SEK 15,000: A one-time payment to help with your travel costs to Sweden. (Note: This doesn’t apply if you’re already living in Sweden).
- Membership in the SI Network for Global Professionals (NFGP): A fantastic platform to help you grow professionally and build a global network while you’re in Sweden.
- Membership in the Sweden Alumni Network: After your scholarship period, you’ll join an exclusive network for continued networking and professional development.
What the bursary does NOT cover:
- It does not include insurance. We recommend checking with your chosen university about their international student insurance coverage.
- It does not provide additional grants for family members.
- It does not cover the application fee to University Admissions.
- It does not allow changes to the awarded study programme or extensions to the scholarship period.
How to Apply?
Getting your hands on this bursary involves a two-step process, so pay close attention to the dates! You first need to apply for your desired Master’s programme through University Admissions, and only then can you apply for the SI Scholarship.
Here’s a general timeline:
- 15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026: Apply to eligible Swedish Master’s programmes through University Admissions. Make sure you apply for programmes designated as eligible for the Pioneering Women in STEM scholarship. You must also pay the application fee to University Admissions on time.
- Mid-November 2025: The specific Pioneering Women in STEM application documents and the full list of eligible Master’s programmes will be published on the official SI webpage.
- 9-25 February 2026: The application portal for SI Scholarships will be open for a limited two-week period. This is when you submit your bursary application!
- 26 March 2026: University admissions announcements are made. You must be admitted (or conditionally admitted) to one of the eligible Master’s programmes on this day.
- 23 April 2026: SI Scholarship announcements are made. Fingers crossed!
Ready to take the next step? Visit the official webpage for detailed information and to start your application journey:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Swedish Institute Pioneering Women in STEM Bursary
This is more than just a bursary; it’s a launchpad for your future as a pioneering woman in STEM. If you’re ready to embrace this life-changing opportunity, don’t hesitate! Start preparing your application today. And remember, Bursaries Room is always here to help you find more incredible funding opportunities for your academic journey!
