The Zonta Women in STEM Scholarship supports female students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by providing financial awards, international recognition, and career opportunities.
Zonta International launched the Women in STEM Scholarship in 2022 to encourage women to pursue education and leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
The Rose Fund provides financial support for this program, built through contributions from Zonta members and donors.
The scholarship awards 30 international winners annually, each selected for academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to advancing women in STEM.
Scholarship Value
Each scholar receives US$5,000 to support tuition, research, or other education-related expenses.
The Zonta Women in STEM Award grants US$10,000 to outstanding candidates at the international level.
Awardees obtain a one-year Zonta membership, which connects them with a professional global network.
Eligibility Criteria
There are three key eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must pursue a degree in a STEM discipline such as mathematics, computer science, civil engineering, or environmental studies.
- Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential through research projects, internships, or extracurricular activities.
- Students must submit academic documents, such as official transcripts, recommendation letters, and a curriculum vitae (CV).
Additional guidelines:
- Women aged 18–35 are eligible for the Women in STEM Award.
- Undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students can apply for the scholarship, provided they are enrolled in a recognized university.
- Applicants must not be Zonta members or closely related to Zonta officers.
Application Process
To apply for the Zonta Women in STEM Scholarship, follow these five steps:
- Visit the Zonta International website and download the application form.
- Find your nearest Zonta Club using the Zonta Club Locator tool.
- Prepare required documents, including transcripts, CV, a 500–800 word essay, and recommendation letters.
- Submit your application to the local Zonta Club before the deadline.
- Successful candidates advance to the district level, then to the international competition.
Applicants must submit documents in English or with certified translations.
For detailed essay guidance, read: How to Write a Winning Scholarship Essay.
Deadlines
Local Zonta Clubs announce deadlines between March and May each year.
District committees evaluate selected applications after local deadlines close.
International winners are announced in September, with awards distributed directly by Zonta International.
Past Recipients
In 2023, Zonta International selected 30 scholars from 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Examples of recipients include:
- Civil engineers who worked on sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy systems.
- Computer scientists who developed artificial intelligence models for healthcare diagnostics.
- Environmental researchers who studied climate adaptation strategies for coastal cities.
These examples demonstrate the scholarship’s global reach and its role in funding diverse fields within STEM.
Benefits Beyond Funding
Recipients gain global recognition as women advancing in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Scholars join a professional Zonta network with more than 25,000 members worldwide.
Awardees strengthen career opportunities through mentorship, networking, and international visibility.
The scholarship not only funds education but also empowers women to lead innovations in research, technology, and sustainable development.
Apply Now
👉 Official page: Zonta Women in STEM Scholarship – Zonta.org
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who can apply for the Zonta Women in STEM Scholarship?
Women pursuing a STEM degree qualify for the scholarship, provided they meet academic and leadership requirements.
Q2: How much is the award?
Each international scholar earns US$5,000, while award winners receive US$10,000.
Q3: Do I need to be a Zonta member to apply?
Applicants do not require Zonta membership and cannot be related to Zonta officers.
Q4: What documents are required?
Applicants must submit transcripts, recommendation letters, a CV, and an essay explaining academic goals and leadership potential. Review important paperwork with our checklist: Required Documents for USA Fully Funded Scholarships.
Q5: When is the deadline?
Local Zonta Clubs set deadlines in March–May, with international results published in September.
