Scholarships for Women Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

In recent years, there has been a significant push for empowering women, especially in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. One of the most effective ways to achieve this goal is through scholarships, which can provide women with the financial support they need to pursue their dreams and become the leaders of tomorrow. From fields like STEM to business, law, education, and social sciences, scholarships for women not only ease the financial burden of education but also serve as a catalyst for change, driving diversity, innovation, and leadership.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most impactful scholarships available for women, specifically designed to empower and equip the next generation of female leaders.

1. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Fellowships and Grants

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is one of the leading organizations advocating for gender equity and women’s empowerment. AAUW offers a variety of fellowships and grants for women who are pursuing higher education in fields like STEM, business, law, and social sciences. Their fellowships are aimed at supporting women who want to break barriers, advance leadership roles, and contribute to their communities.

What it covers: Varies by fellowship, but can include tuition, living expenses, and research grants.
Eligibility: U.S. and international women pursuing graduate or post-graduate degrees.
Application deadline: Varies by fellowship.
Website: AAUW Fellowships

2. The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS)

The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is designed for women from outside the United States and Canada who are pursuing graduate or post-graduate education in North America. This scholarship aims to promote world peace through education and offers financial assistance to women who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential.

What it covers: Up to $12,500 for graduate study in the U.S. or Canada.
Eligibility: Women from outside the U.S. and Canada who have been accepted to an accredited university in the U.S. or Canada.
Application deadline: Typically in December.
Website: P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship

3. The Gates Cambridge Scholarship (University of Cambridge, UK)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship provides full financial support for exceptional women from outside the UK who wish to pursue postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge. This highly competitive scholarship focuses on empowering individuals with leadership potential, academic excellence, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.

What it covers: Full tuition, living expenses, airfare, and additional allowances.
Eligibility: Women from outside the UK with a strong academic record and demonstrated leadership potential.
Application deadline: Typically in December.
Website: Gates Cambridge Scholarship

4. The Google Anita Borg Scholarship

In honor of Anita Borg, a renowned advocate for women in technology, Google offers the Anita Borg Scholarship to encourage women to pursue careers in computer science, engineering, and technology. This scholarship aims to close the gender gap in tech fields and provide women with the resources to excel and become leaders in technology.

What it covers: Up to $10,000 for tuition, fees, and educational expenses, as well as an invitation to the annual Google Scholars’ Retreat.
Eligibility: Female undergraduate and graduate students studying computer science, computer engineering, or related fields.
Application deadline: Typically in December.
Website: Google Anita Borg Scholarship

5. The Women Techmakers Scholars Program (Google)

The Women Techmakers Scholars Program, also offered by Google, is designed to support women pursuing computer science or computer engineering degrees. The scholarship program is part of Google’s effort to encourage more women to enter tech fields and contribute to innovative solutions.

What it covers: Up to $10,000 for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Eligibility: Female students currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies in computer science or related fields.
Application deadline: Typically in December.
Website: Women Techmakers Scholars Program

6. The UN Women Fellowship Program

The UN Women Fellowship Program is designed to promote women’s leadership and gender equality in the global context. This fellowship provides women with opportunities to gain experience in leadership roles within international organizations, particularly in the fields of development, peace, and humanitarian issues.

What it covers: Stipends, professional development opportunities, and mentorship.
Eligibility: Women with at least a bachelor’s degree and experience in gender equality or women’s rights work.
Application deadline: Varies by year and location.
Website: UN Women Fellowship Program

7. The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) provides a range of scholarships to female students pursuing degrees in engineering and related fields. SWE’s mission is to empower women in engineering by supporting them financially and fostering leadership development through its network of professional engineers.

What it covers: Various scholarships, with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the program.
Eligibility: Female undergraduate and graduate students pursuing engineering, technology, or related fields.
Application deadline: Typically in February.
Website: SWE Scholarships

8. The National Organization for Women (NOW) Foundation’s Feminist Scholarship

The NOW Foundation’s Feminist Scholarship program supports women who are committed to advancing feminist values and social justice. The scholarship is open to women in all fields, though it particularly encourages applications from women in underserved and underrepresented communities.

What it covers: A one-time award of up to $8,000.
Eligibility: Female undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in a variety of fields who have demonstrated a commitment to social justice and feminist values.
Application deadline: Typically in May.
Website: NOW Foundation Feminist Scholarship

9. The AAUW International Fellowships

AAUW also offers International Fellowships for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who wish to pursue graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States. These fellowships are designed to support women from around the world who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.

What it covers: Up to $30,000 for graduate or postdoctoral study.
Eligibility: Women from other countries who have earned a U.S. equivalent bachelor’s degree and wish to study at an accredited U.S. institution.
Application deadline: Typically in November.
Website: AAUW International Fellowships

10. The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship

The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship is a program aimed at helping women advance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The fellowship is specifically designed to help postdoctoral women researchers who are making an impact in their fields.

What it covers: A $60,000 stipend for one year of postdoctoral research.
Eligibility: Women with a postdoctoral research project in the fields of life and physical sciences, mathematics, or engineering.
Application deadline: Typically in January.
Website: For Women in Science Fellowship

Final Thoughts

Scholarships for women are more than just financial assistance; they are a means of empowering the next generation of leaders. These programs are designed to encourage women to pursue higher education, break barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields, and contribute to the progress and innovation of society. By taking advantage of these scholarships, women can gain the education, mentorship, and resources needed to thrive in leadership roles. As more women step into these positions, they can inspire others, create lasting change, and make a powerful impact on the world.