How do I find scholarships for women in STEM (Canada)?

Are you a young woman passionate about science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM)? 🎓💡

If so, there are amazing scholarships waiting for you in Canada!

These scholarships for women in STEM can help you:

• pay for school

• connect with mentors

• open doors to exciting careers

Photo by Jeswin Thomas on Unsplash

Ready to discover the perfect scholarship for you? Let’s dive in! 🚀

There are many different types of scholarships for women in STEM — each one supports you in a unique way.

• Merit-based: Reward strong academic performance, leadership, or innovative projects.

• Need-based: Support students facing financial challenges to help them pursue their dreams.

• Diversity-focused: Encourage women, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, to thrive in STEM.

• Industry-sponsored: Offered by companies like Google and Scotiabank to connect students with career opportunities.

Many universities offer special scholarships just for women in STEM! Here are a few:

WISEST Scholarships (University of Alberta): Supports women in STEM with funding and research opportunities.

Women in Engineering Entrance Scholarships (University of Waterloo): Helps female students kick-start their engineering journey.

Scotiabank Women for STEM Scholarship (Ontario Tech University): Supports female students in STEM who need financial assistance.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Some scholarships for women in STEM are offeredfor students from specific provinces! Check these out:

Alberta Women’s Science Network Scholarship: Funding for women in Alberta who love STEM!

Irving K. Barber Women in Technology Scholarship (British Columbia): Supports women studying tech in BC.

Barley’s Angels Women in STEM Scholarship (Kenora, Ontario): For young women in Ontario’s Kenora district pursuing STEM.

Want to go beyond school-based scholarships? These opportunities from companies and private organizations can take your STEM journey even further.

De Beers Group Scholarships for Canadian Women

De Beers Group offers scholarships to women entering their first year of a STEM-related program at recognized Canadian post-secondary institutions. These scholarships are renewable, providing continued support throughout your studies.

MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship

MPOWER Financing awards scholarships annually to female international or DACA students enrolled or accepted to study full-time in STEM programs at MPOWER-supported institutions in Canada (or the United States). 

Eaton Advancing Women in STEM Education & Career Scholarship

Eaton offers a scholarship to female students enrolled full-time in engineering, technology, math, science, or business courses at accredited Canadian universities or colleges. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative average of 75% and demonstrate community involvement. 

Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship

Palantir aims to support women beginning careers in technology by offering scholarships to those pursuing studies in computer science, engineering, or related technical fields. 

Winning a scholarship for women in STEM is not just about good grades—it’s about showing your passion, leadership, and potential in the field. Follow these steps to create a standout application and maximize your chances of success! 🚀

How to Write a Winning Application? 📝

• Tell your story: Show why you love STEM! Talk about a project, competition, or experience that inspired you.

• Highlight achievements: Include academic successes, research, coding projects, or leadership roles.

• Strong recommendation letters: Ask teachers, professors, or mentors who know you well and can speak about your strengths.

• Clear & concise essays: Keep it personal, specific, and to the point. Avoid vague, generic responses.

Photo by Thomas Kilbride on Unsplash

Common Mistakes to Avoid🚫

• Missing deadlines: Set reminders! Most scholarships have strict cutoff dates.

• Generic applications: Tailor each essay to the specific scholarship’s goals.

• Weak recommendation letters: Choose recommenders who can provide detailed and personalized insights.

• Underselling yourself: Don’t be afraid to brag a little! Show confidence in your skills and potential.

Let's meet Sophie!

She is a high school senior from Alberta who dreams of studying engineering at a private university in Ontario. She has a passion for building things, has led her school’s robotics club, and needs financial support to pursue her degree. She’s now looking for scholarships that can help her on her journey as a young woman in STEM.

Based on Sophie’s background and goals, which types of scholarships should she explore? Select all that apply:

A. Regional scholarships, especially those offered in Ontario, since that’s where she wants to study.

B. University-specific scholarships at her dream university, since many schools offer their own funding for women in STEM.

C. Private & industry-sponsored scholarships, which often support young women in engineering across Canada.

Your STEM future starts now — go for it! 🎓 💻 🔬 ✨