2. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future
Up to $50,000/year · For women in STEM research · PhD & postdoc
Launched in 2004, this fellowship exists specifically to close the gender gap in STEM research by funding women from developing and emerging economies to pursue PhD or postdoctoral study at leading universities anywhere in the world, including the United States. It’s one of the more generously funded options on this list, and unlike many scholarships, the award is calculated against your actual costs rather than handed out as a flat amount.
Who it’s for
- Women who are citizens of a developing country or emerging economy where women remain underrepresented in STEM disciplines
- Applicants preparing for a PhD degree or postdoctoral research specifically in a STEM field, such as physical sciences, engineering, computer science, or mathematics
- Candidates with a proven record of teaching experience, leadership, and active community outreach encouraging girls and women into STEM
Dual citizenship is a hard disqualifier if one of your citizenships is from a developed country, and the Foundation is explicit that applications from ineligible candidates won’t be retained in the selection process.
What it covers
Grants are based on actual eligible expenses, up to $50,000 per year for PhD study and $40,000 per year for postdoctoral research. Awards can be renewed through to completion of your studies, subject to performance and strong recommendations from your supervisors.
How selection works
You don’t need a finalized university acceptance to apply, you can submit with an admission application already in progress, a conditional offer, or current enrollment at a host institution abroad. Applications typically open in September and close in November each year, though you should always confirm exact dates on the Foundation’s own site rather than relying on a fixed date carried over from a previous cycle.
How to apply
- Confirm your citizenship and field of study meet the eligibility bar before starting, since ineligible applications aren’t reviewed
- Prepare evidence of your outreach and mentorship work encouraging other women into STEM, this is a genuine selection factor, not a formality
- Apply directly through the Schlumberger Foundation’s official application system during the September to November window
- Be ready to articulate your plan to return to your home country or region after completing your studies