Apply for the WAAW Foundation Scholarship 2027 - a need-based award for female African undergraduates studying STEM at universities and colleges across Africa.
WAAW (Working to Advance STEM Education for African Women) provides a one-time US$500 award so scholars can focus on academics while giving back through STEM outreach chapters on campus.
Applications opened 30 October 2026. Closing date: to be announced on the official page - apply early. This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on official WAAW Foundation materials. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - WAAW Foundation Scholarship 2027
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | WAAW Foundation Scholarship 2026/2027 |
| Host Landmark | National Theatre / Lagos, Nigeria 🇳🇬 |
| Award | One-time US$500 (disbursed after outreach milestones) |
| Who | Female students of African origin, living & studying in Africa |
| Level | Bachelor’s STEM undergraduates (1st/2nd year, or 3rd year of a 5-year course) |
| Age | Below 32 years |
| Opens | 30 October 2026 |
| Deadline | TBA - check the official page; prior cycle closed mid-December |
| Apply | waawfoundation.org/scholarship/ |
Benefits
- One-time US$500 scholarship award
- Support to pursue STEM studies and campus STEM outreach
- Virtual onboarding/orientation for selected scholars
- Membership in the WAAW scholar / STEM Chapter community
Eligibility
- Female student of African origin, living and studying in Africa
- Enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM-related course
- First- or second-year student (or third year of a 5-year programme)
- Demonstrate financial need and an excellent academic record
- Proven leadership, volunteering, and community service
- Below age 32
- Not eligible: Medicine and Nursing (Pharmacy is accepted); graduate degrees; second/subsequent degrees; male applicants
Required Documents
- Online application (personal info, education, essays)
- Two reference letters - one from a professor at your institution; one from an academic supervisor/advisor or mentor
- Scanned school ID card
- Signed & sealed current university transcript (Second Stage Review)
Scholar Responsibilities (for full payment)
- Active member of a WAAW STEM Chapter (or start one if none exists)
- Participate in at least 3 of 6 STEM outreach programmes
- Attend at least 3 monthly Fellows Meet-Up sessions
- Submit outreach reports and publish activities via the chapter’s social handle
How to Apply
- Confirm you meet every eligibility rule on the WAAW Scholarship page.
- Complete the online form during the open window (opened 30 October 2026).
- Prepare essays/personal statement highlighting STEM passion, need, leadership, and community impact.
- List two academic references and upload your school ID.
- Watch the official page for the announced closing date and submit before it.
Questions: scholarship@waawfoundation.org (do not spam multiple messages).
Official Links
Scholarship email: scholarship@waawfoundation.org
General inquiries: inquiries@waawfoundation.org
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the deadline?
The closing date is to be announced on the official WAAW page. Applications opened 30 October 2026 - apply as soon as you can.
How much is the award?
A one-time US$500 award, paid after outreach milestones are met.
Can medical or nursing students apply?
No for Medicine/Nursing. Pharmacy students may apply. STEM courses only.
Is it for graduate students?
No - undergraduate Bachelor’s STEM only; no Masters/PhD/second degrees.
