Introduction: Women in Engineering — A Market Underserved, A Potential Untapped
As an entrepreneur, I know a golden opportunity when I see one — and supporting women in engineering is exactly that. It’s not just about equity; it’s about fueling innovation, unlocking perspectives, and tapping into a global brain trust that’s been underestimated for too long.
Here’s the good news: if you’re a woman pursuing engineering, there’s a growing number of organizations ready to invest in your journey. But just like in business, opportunities don’t fall into your lap — you find them, pitch your value, and secure your seat at the table.
Let’s talk about top scholarships for women in engineering that are actually worth your time, energy, and ambition. This isn’t just a list — this is your strategic roadmap.
Why These Scholarships Matter (And How They Change the Game)
Before we dive into the list, let’s be clear: scholarships are more than money.
They are:
- Access to networks
- Platforms for leadership
- Accelerators for impact
- And signals to future employers and investors that you are exceptional
As in any business pitch, these scholarships want more than your GPA — they want your vision, your grit, and your potential to lead the next generation of engineers.
Top Global Scholarships for Women in Engineering
Let’s break them down by region and impact. These are not just common names — these are scholarships with real traction and career-changing potential.
1. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships — USA
Overview:
One of the most well-known organizations supporting women in engineering, SWE offers hundreds of scholarships each year.
Key Benefits:
- Over $1 million awarded annually
- Undergraduate and graduate level
- Multiple categories, including non-traditional students
Why It’s Powerful:
SWE is more than funding. It gives you access to a global network of women in STEM, career fairs, mentorship, and real professional growth.
Website: https://swe.org
2. Amelia Earhart Fellowship (Zonta International)
Overview:
Although named after an aviation pioneer, this fellowship supports women pursuing doctoral degrees in aerospace-related engineering and science.
Key Benefits:
- $10,000 award
- Global applicants eligible
- Open to PhD-level students
Why It’s Unique:
It’s one of the few fellowships that spotlights women at the research frontier in aerospace — an industry still heavily male-dominated.
3. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship
Overview:
Designed for women from developing and emerging economies pursuing advanced degrees (PhD or Postdoc) in STEM fields.
Key Benefits:
- Covers full tuition + living + travel
- Long-term leadership and reinvestment model
- Highly competitive and prestigious
Why It’s Strategic:
It’s not just about studying abroad — the foundation invests in returning scholars who lead change in their home countries.
Website: https://facultyforthefuture.net
4. L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards
Overview:
An international award recognizing and funding women researchers and scientists, including in engineering-related disciplines.
Key Benefits:
- Up to €100,000 in funding
- Regional and global awards
- Mentorship and visibility
Why It’s Game-Changing:
This isn’t just a scholarship — it’s a global spotlight. Being part of this program can open doors to international research collaboration and industry partnerships.
5. Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program
Overview:
Aimed at female students in computer science, computer engineering, or a related tech field.
Key Benefits:
- Financial support
- Retreats and networking events
- Long-term support via Google initiatives
Why Entrepreneurs Should Pay Attention:
This isn’t just academic — it’s a direct path into the tech world’s startup, corporate, and innovation ecosystems.
6. Microsoft Women’s Scholarship Program
Overview:
Supports high school and college-aged women pursuing computer science and engineering degrees.
Key Benefits:
- Tuition assistance
- Internship opportunities
- Access to mentorship from Microsoft professionals
Why It’s Strategic:
Microsoft isn’t just giving money — they’re grooming future leaders in tech.
7. Women in Engineering and Computer and Information Science Awards (Canada)
Overview:
Offered by various Canadian universities, these awards are increasingly designed to attract top female talent to Canada’s growing STEM sector.
Key Examples:
- University of Toronto Women in STEM Scholarship
- UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
Why It’s Powerful:
Canadian universities are aggressively recruiting female talent in engineering — and offering very competitive packages to do so.
8. AACE International Scholarships (Engineering + Cost Engineering)
Overview:
Open to women pursuing engineering, construction, or cost engineering-related fields.
Key Benefits:
- Multiple awards
- Focus on real-world engineering applications
- International student eligibility
Why You Should Know This:
This is one of the few scholarships bridging engineering and finance, which is gold if you want to move into entrepreneurial engineering.
9. EIT Women in Engineering Scholarship (Europe)
Overview:
The European Institute of Innovation & Technology supports female students pursuing master’s degrees in engineering-related fields.
Key Benefits:
- EU-wide opportunities
- Support for mobility, tuition, and living expenses
- Access to Europe’s innovation ecosystem
Why Entrepreneurs Love It:
You’re not just getting a degree — you’re entering Europe’s startup and tech accelerator pipeline.
How to Win These Scholarships (The Entrepreneur’s Approach)
Winning a scholarship today is like pitching a business. Here’s the mindset:
✅ 1. Know Your Unique Value
What do you offer that others don’t? Maybe it’s your story, your impact, or your commitment to returning home and building your community.
✅ 2. Build a Personal Brand
Your essays, resume, and interviews should tell a consistent story. Think of it as branding — clear, memorable, and emotionally resonant.
✅ 3. Network Like It’s a Business Conference
Follow the organizations. Join webinars. Message past recipients on LinkedIn. It shows initiative and builds your visibility.
✅ 4. Apply Like a Pro
Set deadlines. Track your progress. Customize your applications. Mass applying without strategy is like launching 100 products without a sales funnel.
Common Requirements (Be Prepared!)
- Academic transcripts
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of leadership or extracurricular involvement
- Research proposal (for graduate-level awards)
- Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international scholarships)
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Just Applying — You’re Pitching a Vision
As a business owner, I’ve learned one thing: the world is full of money — but capital follows clarity and confidence. The same applies to scholarships.
You’re not just asking for help. You’re inviting organizations to invest in someone who’s going to change the game. So tell your story. Show your value. And never shrink your ambition to fit the mold.
Because you? You’re not just a woman in engineering.
You’re a future founder, leader, and innovator.
And these scholarships? They’re just the beginning.