About this opportunity
A $500 award does not pay for a degree. It pays for the thing that actually keeps a young woman in engineering at her desk: the textbook she was sharing, the data bundle for research, the transport to the lab. That is the thinking behind the WAAW Foundation Scholarship, a one time award of $500 for female college students in Africa studying a STEM related course.
The foundation looks for need, passion and evidence that you give back. Scholars join the STEM Outreach Chapter at their university and volunteer to promote the engagement of women in STEM, so the award comes with a community, not just a cheque. First and second year students are the core group, and a third year student on a five year course is equally eligible. You must be under 32, hold an excellent academic record and be able to show financial need.
The process runs in stages, from the online application to shortlisting, reference letters, an individual interview and finally the award. Two references are required, and one of them must come from a professor at your institution of study. Applications close on 18 December 2026, and the foundation answers questions at scholarship@waawfoundation.org.
What you receive
- A one time scholarship award of $500
- Membership of the STEM Outreach Chapter at your university
- Virtual onboarding and orientation for selected scholars, with guidance on expectations and reporting templates
- A place in the WAAW Foundation network of African women in STEM
Who can apply
- Be a female student of African origin, living and studying in Africa
- Be currently enrolled in a Bachelor degree programme
- Be studying a STEM related course at a university or college in Africa
- Be a first or second year student, or a third year student on a five year university course
- Be below the age of 32 years
- Be able to demonstrate financial need
- Hold an excellent academic record
- Show proven leadership, volunteering and community service
Who should not apply
- Male students cannot apply, the award is open to female students only
Documents to prepare
- Two reference letters, one of which must be written by a professor from your institution of study and the other by an academic supervisor, advisor or mentor
- One scanned copy of your school ID card
- A signed and sealed copy of your current university transcript, required at the second stage review
How to apply
- Read the full scholarship page on the WAAW Foundation site so you know every requirement before you start.
- Open the WAAW Foundation application form at https://airtable.com/appyw4lczE5E2laJe/shr1VhyUcfMmNxWKW and submit before 18 December 2026.
- Send your two references, making sure one comes from a professor at your institution.
- If shortlisted, supply your signed and sealed transcript and attend the individual interview.
Selection process
- The foundation states the process as eligibility, online application, shortlist, reference letters, individual interview, then scholarship award.
- Selected scholars go through a virtual onboarding and orientation programme.
- Scholarship payment is structured in stages, and the second payment has its own requirements.
- Outreach activities are part of the award, and the foundation notes a scholarship can be affected if outreach requirements are not met.
Sources and verification
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Questions applicants ask
How much is the WAAW Foundation scholarship award?
The WAAW Foundation scholarship is a one-time award of $500.
How many references are required?
Two references. One must be written by a professor from your institution of study and the other by an academic supervisor, advisor or mentor.
What are the required documents to be submitted?
Two reference letters, one scanned copy of your school ID card, and a signed and sealed copy of your current university transcript, which is required during the second stage review.
I am a male, can I apply?
No. The scholarship is for female college students in Africa pursuing a STEM related course.
Will there be training or orientation for new scholars?
Yes. Selected scholars take part in a virtual onboarding and orientation programme that covers expectations, reporting templates and the opportunities available during the scholarship year.
What are some tips for writing a strong personal statement?
The foundation asks you to be honest and genuine, sharing your story and why you are passionate about your work.
Important disclaimer
Nextali researches and curates useful opportunities to make discovery easier. Before applying, verify every timeline, requirement, fee and application link on the official provider website. Do your own research into the organisation, its background and the authenticity of the offer. Nextali does not guarantee selection, funding or the conduct of third party providers.
