Scholarships for women

Securing financial aid is a significant step for many women aiming to pursue higher education. Scholarships specifically designed for women can significantly reduce the financial burden and make it easier to achieve academic goals. This article explores various scholarship opportunities, providing you with an overview of the options available to international women.

Types of scholarships for women

There are numerous international scholarships for women, so it’s important to understand the broad categories and which ones might be available for you:

  • Merit-based scholarships: Awarded based on academic excellence, these scholarships are ideal for women who’ve demonstrated outstanding academic performance. They often cover tuition fees and other educational expenses.
  • Need-based scholarships: These scholarships are designed for women who require financial assistance to pursue their education. They take into account the applicant’s financial situation and aim to support those who might otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
  • Field-specific scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored for women pursuing specific fields of study, particularly in underrepresented areas such as STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). These scholarships encourage women to enter these fields.
  • Diversity and inclusion scholarships: These scholarships aim to promote greater diversity in higher education by supporting women from various backgrounds, including minorities and international students.
10_SEO Image_830x550

MPOWER Scholarships

International student scholarships are designed with your needs in mind.

International scholarships for women

There are several scholarships available specifically for women studying internationally.

  • Fulbright Program: This prestigious program offers scholarships for international students in the U.S. Women from various countries can apply, benefiting from full funding for their studies.
  • AAUW International Fellowships: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides scholarships specifically for women pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies in the U.S. These fellowships are available to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
  • Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future: This program offers fellowships to international women in STEM from developing and emerging economies to pursue Ph.D. or postdoctoral studies in STEM fields at top universities worldwide.
  • PEO International Peace Scholarship: This scholarship provides substantial financial support to international women wishing to study in the U.S. or Canada. It aims to promote peace through education and mutual understanding.
  • Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG): These grants are awarded to women from developing countries committed to improving the lives of women and children through education. They support women studying in the U.S. and other countries.
  • Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: This program provides scholarships to women from developing countries pursuing graduate studies in development-related fields. The scholarships cover tuition, living expenses and travel costs.

Scholarships for women in graduate programs

Graduate scholarships for women are intended for those pursuing advanced degrees, such as master’s or doctoral programs. These scholarships often have more specific criteria and can be more competitive. Types include:

  • Research-based scholarships: Many scholarships for women in graduate programs are tied to research projects or academic achievements, requiring research proposals or demonstrated research capabilities.
  • Professional development scholarships: Designed to support women in professional programs like law, medicine or business. These scholarships often include funding for internships, conferences and other professional development opportunities.
  • Field-specific scholarships: Similar to undergraduate scholarships, there are many field-specific scholarships for women in graduate programs. These often have more stringent requirements and may focus on niche areas within a field, for example, STEM scholarships.
  • Fellowships and assistantships: Women pursuing graduate degrees can apply for fellowships and assistantships, which provide financial support in exchange for performing teaching or research duties. These opportunities offer both financial assistance and professional experience.
02_SEO Image_830x550

Tips for applying to scholarships

Here are some tips to enhance your chances of success when applying for scholarships:

  • Research thoroughly: Start by researching various scholarships to find those that best match your profile and academic goals. Pay attention to the eligibility criteria and deadlines.
  • Prepare a strong application: Your application should highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities and personal statement. Tailor your application to each scholarship’s specific requirements.
  • Seek recommendations: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors can significantly boost your application. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and potential.
  • Stay organized: Keep track of deadlines and required documents for each scholarship. Submitting a complete and timely application is crucial.

Why MPOWER Financing?

MPOWER Financing believes funding a student’s education is only the first step to success – not the last. That’s why MPOWER and its partners offer exclusive career, visa and financial resources through its Path2Success program.


Visa support 

MPOWER helps students understand and navigate elements of the F-1 visa process, including their visa

interview.

Visa support services include:

  • A no-cost visa support letter demonstrating a student has the necessary funds for school
  • A no-cost visa essentials course to help students fully prepare for their visa interview


Visa support upgrades

MPOWER also offers personalized mock interviews and live Q&A webinars for students who want additional support (US$99 fee required).  

For an additional fee, MPOWER students also have access to speak with former U.S. visa officers.


Career services

MPOWER recognizes the significance of securing a professional career in the United States. MPOWER Financing is here to support the internship and full-time job search.

MPOWER offers career services including:

  • A guided internship and job search tool for F-1, OPT and H-1B visa-sponsored roles
  • A resume builder to match targeted job requirements
  • Job application support with profile and skill set match
  • A directory of F-1 eligible job roles for STEM and non-STEM degrees

MPOWER is dedicated to supporting your educational journey.

MPOWER Financing Student Loan

A loan based on your future earnings

FAQs


How can I apply for international scholarships for women, and what documents are typically required?

To apply for international scholarships for women, begin by identifying scholarships that match your academic and personal profile. Commonly required documents include proof of admission to a foreign university, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement or essay, and proof of financial need if applicable. Some scholarships might also require standardized test scores (like the SAT, ACT or GRE) and evidence of extracurricular activities. A great place to start your scholarship search is with the scholarships offered by MPOWER Financing.

What are the benefits of scholarships for international students in the U.S., and how can they support my education?

Scholarships for international students in the U.S. can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs and sometimes provide a stipend for books and other educational materials. By receiving a scholarship, you can focus more on your studies and extracurricular learning activities free from worry about personal finances. Don’t forget to explore partial scholarships. Multiple partial scholarships can add up and reduce your financial burden. Additionally, some scholarships offer networking opportunities, mentorship programs and career support services, which can be invaluable for your professional growth and experience.

Are there scholarships specifically for women in STEM fields, and how can I find them?

Yes, there are many scholarships specifically for women pursuing studies in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields. These scholarships aim to encourage more women to enter and excel in these traditionally underrepresented areas. To find these scholarships, start by researching organizations and foundations that promote women in STEM, such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) and the Schlumberger Foundation’s Faculty for the Future program. University websites and financial aid offices can also provide information on STEM-specific scholarships for women. Additionally, consider exploring Women in STEM Scholarship by MPOWER Financing, an excellent resource for women seeking support in STEM fields.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

2024 © MPOWER Financing, Public Benefit Corporation NMLS ID #1233542

U.S. office India office
1101 Connecticut Ave. NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036 The Cube at Karle Town Center, 9th Floor, 100 Ft, Nada Prabhu Kempe GowdaMain Road, Next to Nagavara, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560045, India
Apply Now