British Council Women in STEM scholarships to study in the UK now open to Sri Lankans

For the sixth consecutive year, the British Council is offering fully funded scholarships to women to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses in the UK. 

The Women in STEM scholarship programme, part of the British Council’s Going Global Partnerships, provides funding for one-year master's degree courses at top ranking universities and research institutions within the UK, with the objective of increasing opportunities for women in STEM, strengthening female leadership in science and innovation, and promoting a more diverse and gender-representative STEM sector. To date, the programme has engaged 43 leading UK universities and awarded around 500 scholarships.

Each scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year is worth a minimum of £40,000, including tuition fees, living stipends, travel and visa costs, health coverage fees and English language support. The life-changing scholarships provide access to world-leading science and research universities in the UK and platforms to connect with experts in STEM and the UK’s global network of alumni. 

Globally, 90 scholarships are available, and eligible applicants span 30 countries. 25 scholarships are open to applicants from South Asia, including Sri Lanka, working with 5 UK universities.

Orlando Edwards, Country Director, British Council Sri Lanka said: “The inclusion of Sri Lanka in the British Council’s Women in STEM scholarships for 2026–27 reflects our long-term commitment to expanding opportunity and leadership for women in science. When women are empowered to thrive in STEM fields, the impact goes far beyond individual careers -- it transforms research, innovation, and national development. Through this programme, we are connecting Sri Lankan talent with global expertise and future-ready skills.”

Fathima Litha, a returning scholar who recently completed her masters in Bio-medical sciences at Queen Mary University of London said:  "The British Council Women in STEM Scholarship opened doors to continue pursuing my passion for research.” As a result of her UK experience, she is confident to continue PhD studies in the same field. 

To see details of scholarships which are available in Sri Lanka please visit https://www.britishcouncil.lk/study-uk/scholarships-and-funding/british-council-scholarships-women-stem 

Applications for Scholarships for Women in STEM are open until late April 2026.

Caption: 

Fathima Litha, returning Women in STEM scholar