Graduate Scholarships for Women: Funding Your Master’s and Ph.D. Studies

Why Scholarships for Women in Graduate School Matter

In this post, we will list the most popular graduate scholarships for women in 2025.

Research by McKinsey and LeanIn.Org shows men outnumber women at every level, regardless of race or ethnicity. Furthermore, the Pew Research Center also reports that the gender pay gap has been an issues for two decades now, with women earning just 82% of what men make.

To compete with men, women often have to do more in terms of education, which is why 60% of college students are women. However, with women facing the same costs as men but lower expected returns, the financial barrier becomes even greater.

Graduate school is expensive. On average, graduate students spend about $43,620 per year, which can be overwhelming for many. With a busy schedule and the added worry of earning less than men, the financial strain can really take a toll.

Hence, the importance of securing graduate scholarships for women.

Graduate scholarships for women provide critical financial support. They allow women to pursue advanced degrees without accumulating overwhelming debt.

Scholarships for women do more than just provide financial aid. They also:

• Help women focus on studies, boosting graduation rates and career growth.
• Provide valuable networking opportunities like mentorship and industry connections.
• Lead to internships, job opportunities, and additional funding.

The benefits are endless. We will continue with our list of the top scholarships for female graduate students and include a few guidelines on applying and qualifying for women’s graduate scholarships.

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Top Graduate Scholarships for Women in 2025

General Graduate Scholarships for Women

1. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship (IPS)

The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship offers funding to women from outside the United States and Canada who are pursuing graduate-level studies in those countries. This scholarship aims to promote international peace and understanding by empowering women through education.

• Eligibility: Female students who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens, enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time graduate program at an accredited institution in the U.S. or Canada.
• Amount: Up to $12,500
• Application Deadline: December 15, 2025

2. The United Nations Graduate Women’s Scholarship

The United Nations Graduate Women’s Scholarship is designed to support women from developing countries who are pursuing graduate studies in fields related to international development, human rights, or public policy.

• Eligibility: Female students from developing countries planning to pursue graduate studies in fields like international relations, human rights, or sustainable development, with a focus on promoting gender equality and global development.
• Amount: Varies by program
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

3. The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education

The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education offers scholarships to women who are seeking to further their education after a break. The scholarship is aimed at women who have had interruptions in their academic careers and are now ready to pursue graduate studies.

• Eligibility: Female students who have had at least a two-year break in their education and are enrolled in a graduate program. Applicants must show financial need and a strong desire to complete their degree.
• Amount: Up to $4,000
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

STEM Scholarships for Women in Graduate Programs

4. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) offers master’s scholarships for women pursuing engineering degrees. SWE is dedicated to empowering women to succeed in engineering by providing financial assistance to help them achieve their academic and career goals.

• Eligibility: Female students enrolled in an ABET-accredited engineering program. Selection criteria include academic performance, leadership experience, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
• Amount: Up to $10,000
• Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 

5. Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship

The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship honors Dr. Anita Borg, a trailblazer in computing and technology. This scholarship supports women who are passionate about tech and encourages more women to explore careers in computing and related fields.

• Eligibility: Open to women studying Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field
• Amount: $10,000
• Application Deadline: March 18, 2025

Business and Leadership Scholarships for Women

6. Forté Foundation Fellowships

The Forté Foundation offers fellowships for women pursuing MBA degrees at some of the top business schools in the U.S. and internationally. The goal is to help more women enter leadership roles in the business world. In addition, the foundation hosts great networking and professional development events to support the women in its fellowship program.

• Eligibility: Women pursuing full-time MBA programs at Forté-affiliated business schools
• Amount: Varies by participating school
• Application Deadline: Varies by participating school (Check individual MBA program deadlines)

7. The Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship

This is one of the best Ph.D. scholarships for women. Named after the pioneering aviator, the Amelia Earhart Fellowship is awarded to women pursuing advanced studies in aerospace-related sciences and engineering.

• Eligibility: Female students enrolled in a doctoral or post-doctoral program in aerospace-related sciences or engineering. The fellowship is open to women worldwide with a demonstrated interest and academic standing in the field.
• Amount: $10,000
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2025

Grants and Scholarships for Women Pursuing Education and Healthcare Graduate Degrees

8. American Association of University Women (AAUW) Fellowships and Grants

The AAUW offers several doctoral scholarships for women and grants for students in various fields, including education, healthcare, and the sciences. This initiative is part of their broader mission to empower women and girls through education.

• Eligibility: Must be enrolled in an accredited graduate or post-doctoral program in the U.S. or abroad
• Amount: Varies by specific fellowship or grant
• Application Deadline: Varies by specific fellowship or grant (Check AAUW website)

9. The American Nurses Foundation Scholarships

The American Nurses Foundation provides scholarships to women pursuing nursing and healthcare leadership graduate degrees. The goal is to support the next generation of nurses who will make significant contributions to healthcare.

• Eligibility: Female students pursuing graduate degrees in nursing or healthcare leadership programs
• Amount: Varies
• Application Deadline: May 15, 2025

10. Health Professions Education Foundation Scholarships

This foundation provides women’s scholarships for advanced degrees in healthcare fields like nursing, medicine, and public health. The goal is to help lighten the financial load for women who are training to join the healthcare workforce.

• Eligibility: Female students pursuing graduate-level studies in healthcare fields. This includes but is not limited to nursing, physical therapy, public health, and medical sciences.
• Amount: Varies
• Application Deadline: Varies by program, but typically in early spring

How to Apply for Women’s Graduate Scholarships

Applying for funding for women in graduate school can be tricky and competitive. In a single application, you can have hundreds of competitors. This is why it’s important to understand the requirements and steps so you can make your application stand out.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?

Each scholarship has its own set of eligibility criteria, so it’s important to read the fine print. Typically, you’ll need to meet requirements such as:

• Having a certain GPA. Competitive scholarships may require you to have a minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Being enrolled in or planning to enroll in a graduate program.
• Demonstrating financial need.
• Showing commitment to a particular field or career path.

The Application Process: Common Steps and Deadlines

Step 1: Start early.

Begin your search early so you can gather everything needed and write strong essays. Many scholarships have early deadlines, so the earlier you start, the better. Mark deadlines on your calendar to stay on track.

Step 2: Search everywhere.

Use scholarship search engines like Fastweb and Scholarships.com. Check college websites and local organizations, and ask your school counselor about opportunities.

Step 3: Understand what eligibility requirements are.

Read the requirements carefully. Make sure you meet GPA, test score, financial need, extracurricular, or demographic criteria before applying.

Step 4: Gather your documents.

• Transcripts: Either official or unofficial records of your grades.
• Standardized test scores: Include GMAT/GRE scores if required.
• Letters of recommendation: Ask teachers or mentors early to write a strong letter.
• Resume: List your academic, extracurricular, and volunteer activities.
• Essay/personal statement: Tailor it to each scholarship and share why you’re a good fit.
• Financial info: Need-based scholarships will ask for FAFSA details or proof of family income.
• ID documents: A passport, driver’s license, or national ID may be needed.
• Acceptance letter: Some scholarships ask for proof you’ve been accepted to graduate school.

Step #5: Submit on time.

Don’t wait! Late submissions are usually rejected. Set reminders and aim to finish early, leaving room for any last-minute issues.

Writing A Strong Scholarship Essay

Writing a scholarship essay can be stressful, but it’s an important part of your application. Here’s how to make it easier:

1. Read the prompt and instructions. You must understand the question before you start writing. Research the scholarship donor to get a sense of their mission.
2. Outline your essay. Plan what you want to say and how to say it. Planning keeps your essay organized.
3. Grab attention with your opening. Start with something original and interesting—avoid clichés or quotes.
4. Use basic writing skills. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation, and grammar to make your essay look polished.
5. Be honest. Share your real experiences. Authenticity matters more than making up a perfect story.
6. Stay professional. Write in a clear, professional tone. Avoid slang or texting language.
7. Be creative and different. Make your essay stand out by showcasing your unique personality and strengths.
8. Let your voice shine. Show who you are in a personal but professional way—let the committee hear your authentic voice.
9. Make your essay stand out. Avoid clichés and focus on a key moment in your life that shows your character or accomplishments.
10. Finish strong. End with a memorable conclusion that ties everything together without making general statements.

Getting Letters of Recommendation

Choosing who writes your scholarship recommendation can be tricky. If not specified, common options are teachers, employers, volunteer supervisors, or mentors. Family and friends are usually not ideal unless requested.

Here’s how to ask:

1. Schedule a meeting. Reach out to potential writers via phone, email, or in person, depending on what works best for them. Explain the scholarship, why you want it, and how their recommendation will help.
2. Provide scholarship details. Share all necessary information about the scholarship, including requirements like performance reviews or test scores, so that they can tailor the letter to the application.
3. Show appreciation. Once you’ve received the letter, be sure to thank them—send a thank-you card, email, or make a call to express your gratitude for their time and effort.

Additional Ways to Fund Your Graduate Education

Besides graduate scholarships for women, here are some other ways to fund grad school:

Fellowships and Assistantships

Many universities offer stipends and tuition coverage in exchange for teaching or research work, especially in fields like STEM, education, and humanities.

Employer Tuition Assistance

If you’re working, check with your employer to see if they cover part of your tuition, especially if the degree helps with your job.

Crowdfunding

If you need extra funds, consider crowdfunding through platforms like GoFundMe or Kickstarter to raise money from family, friends, and others.

Final Tips for Securing Graduate Scholarships

Securing graduate scholarships for women requires effort and organization. Here are a few final tips to help increase your chances of success:

Tip #1: Start your scholarship search early.

The earlier you start looking, the more opportunities you’ll find.

Tip #2: Apply for multiple scholarships.

Apply for as many as you can—bigger ones and smaller local ones. Every little bit helps, and some scholarships are renewable, meaning you can get them year after year.

Tip #3: Follow up and stay organized.

Track your applications in a spreadsheet or checklist. Include deadlines, submission status, and expected response dates. Follow up politely if you don’t hear back by the stated time.