As Europe continues to drive progress in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), efforts to address gender imbalance in these fields are intensifying. Women remain underrepresented in many STEM disciplines, particularly at senior levels. To bridge this gap, a growing number of scholarships and funding programs are designed specifically to empower women pursuing education and careers in STEM across Europe.

This 2025 guide highlights some of the most impactful and prestigious scholarships available to women in STEM, helping to break barriers and build a more inclusive scientific and technological future.

1. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Fellowships

Eligibility: Open to researchers at all career stages, with a strong commitment to gender equality
Host Countries: European Union member states and associated countries
Support: Monthly living allowance, mobility allowance, research and training expenses, family support
Focus: Promotes interdisciplinary research and international mobility; highly competitive

The MSCA Fellowships are among the EU’s most respected funding opportunities, aiming to develop world-class researchers while encouraging diversity and inclusion, including increased female participation in STEM research.

2. Amelia Earhart Fellowship by Zonta International

Eligibility: Women pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace-related sciences or engineering
Host Countries: Global, including European institutions
Support: $10,000 per year
Focus: Aerospace engineering and space sciences

Though global, this fellowship is frequently awarded to scholars at leading European institutions and provides crucial support to women in highly specialized fields often dominated by men.

3. L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Fellowships (Europe)

Eligibility: Women researchers in postdoctoral or early-career stages
Host Countries: Several European nations have national or regional programs (e.g., UK & Ireland, France, Germany)
Support: Varies by country (often €15,000–€30,000)
Focus: Recognizes scientific excellence and supports promising women scientists

These fellowships are designed to highlight and elevate the research of women in STEM while providing funding to help balance research demands with life responsibilities.

4. EIT Women in Tech Scholarships (European Institute of Innovation & Technology)

Eligibility: Women admitted to EIT-labelled master’s programs in STEM fields
Host Countries: Multiple across Europe, including Germany, Finland, Spain, and more
Support: Tuition fee coverage, monthly living stipend
Focus: Innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital skills

This scholarship is part of the EU’s digital education agenda and is particularly aimed at empowering women to lead in emerging tech sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainable engineering.

5. DAAD Women in Engineering Scholarships (Germany)

Eligibility: Female students applying to engineering or technical master’s programs in Germany
Host Countries: Germany
Support: Monthly stipends, travel allowance, insurance
Focus: Engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) supports a variety of scholarships, and some institutions offer women-focused tracks to improve gender equity in technical fields.

6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) – Women in STEM Streams

Eligibility: Outstanding international students, with many programs prioritizing female participation
Host Countries: Multiple, as students study in at least two European countries
Support: Full tuition, travel allowance, monthly stipend
Focus: Joint degrees in engineering, environmental science, data science, etc.

While not exclusively for women, many EMJMD programs include gender inclusion targets and provide outreach to encourage female candidates, especially in male-dominated fields.

7. WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) Scholarships – UK and Ireland

Eligibility: Female students entering STEM undergraduate or postgraduate degrees
Host Countries: Primarily the UK and Ireland
Support: Varies by institution; includes tuition grants, mentoring, and networking
Focus: Increasing female enrollment and success in university STEM programs

Several universities partner with WISE or run similar initiatives under their own names. These scholarships often come with mentoring programs and career development support.

Choosing the Right Scholarship

When selecting a scholarship, consider the following:

• Discipline focus: Some programs are general, while others are tailored to specific STEM fields.

• Academic level: Scholarships differ for undergraduates, master’s students, Ph.D. candidates, and postdoctoral researchers.

• Geographic mobility: Determine if you’re open to studying in multiple countries or prefer staying in one location.

• Additional support: Look for programs that offer mentoring, networking, and career services—not just financial aid.