If you’re a woman looking to break into STEM or advance your studies, this guide highlights some of the best scholarships available in Canada.

Why Scholarships for Women in STEM Matter

Despite progress in gender equality, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields. Scholarships for women in STEM help by:

• Reducing financial barriers – Many women face economic challenges that can hinder their education.
• Encouraging participation – Financial support motivates more women to enter and stay in STEM.
• Promoting diversity – A diverse workforce leads to better innovation and problem-solving.

Top Canadian Scholarships for Women in STEM

Here are some of the best scholarships available for women pursuing STEM degrees in Canada:

1. Canadian Women in STEM Scholarship

Offered by: Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation (CST)
Eligibility: Female students enrolled in a STEM program at a Canadian post-secondary institution.
Award Amount: $5,000
Application Deadline: Usually in April

This scholarship supports women who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership in STEM.

2. Schulich Leader Scholarships

Offered by: Schulich Foundation
Eligibility: High school graduates enrolling in a STEM program at select Canadian universities.
Award Amount: Up to $100,000 (for engineering) or $80,000 (for science/math)
Deadline: Varies by university

While not exclusively for women, this prestigious scholarship encourages female applicants in STEM fields.

3. NSERC Scholarships for Women

Offered by: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
Eligibility: Female students pursuing graduate studies in natural sciences or engineering.
Award Amount: Varies (up to $35,000 for doctoral studies)
Deadline: Depends on the specific program

NSERC offers several funding opportunities to promote women in research and innovation.

4. Women in Technology Scholarship (BC)

Offered by: BC Tech Association
Eligibility: Female students in British Columbia studying tech-related fields.
Award Amount: $5,000
Deadline: Typically in June

This scholarship supports women in tech, including computer science, engineering, and IT.

5. Hydro One Women in Engineering & Technology Scholarships

Offered by: Hydro One
Eligibility: Female students in Ontario enrolled in engineering or technology programs.
Award Amount: $5,000
Deadline: Usually in May

This initiative aims to increase female representation in engineering and tech careers.

Tips for Winning STEM Scholarships

To improve your chances of securing a scholarship:

• Start early – Many scholarships have early deadlines.
• Highlight leadership – Showcase extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or projects.
• Write a strong essay – Personalize your application and explain your passion for STEM.
• Get strong references – Choose recommenders who know your academic and professional strengths.

Final Thoughts

Canada is committed to supporting women in STEM through various scholarships and funding opportunities. If you’re a woman pursuing a STEM degree, take advantage of these programs to ease financial burdens and advance your career.

Start researching, prepare your applications early, and don’t hesitate to apply—your future in STEM could be just one scholarship away!

Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Scholarships for Women in STEM

If you’re considering applying for scholarships as a woman in STEM, you likely have some questions. Below are answers to some of the most common queries.

1. Who is eligible for women in STEM scholarships in Canada?

Most scholarships require applicants to:

• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student enrolled in a Canadian institution.
• Identify as a woman or gender minority in STEM.
• Be enrolled (or accepted) in a recognized STEM program at a college or university.

Some awards may have additional criteria, such as academic achievement or financial need.

2. Are there scholarships for international female students in Canadian STEM programs?

Yes! Many Canadian scholarships are open to international students. Some options include:

• University-specific awards (e.g., UBC, University of Toronto, and McGill offer STEM scholarships for women).
• Private organization grants (e.g., Mitacs Globalink Research Award for women in research).