OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists

Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Women scientists from "Science and Technology Lagging Countries" (STLCs) with a master's degree, accepted by a host institute in the Global South. Check the OWSD STLC country list to see if your country is on it.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The OWSD PhD Fellowship supports women scientists from low-income countries to do PhD research at a host institute in another developing country. The programme runs calls on an irregular basis.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Women scientists from "Science and Technology Lagging Countries" (STLCs) with a master's degree, accepted by a host institute in the Global South. Check the OWSD STLC country list to see if your country is on it.
2. Note the deadline. Feb – Apr (probable, when a call runs; no PhD call was run in 2025 and none has been confirmed for 2026 - check owsd.net) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); Proof of family income or financial situation (if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Explain the impact you want to make for women in your field, not only your own career.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists?

Women scientists from "Science and Technology Lagging Countries" (STLCs) with a master's degree, accepted by a host institute in the Global South. Check the OWSD STLC country list to see if your country is on it.

What does OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists cover?

Study fees and a monthly living stipend for up to four years of PhD research in natural, engineering or IT sciences at a host institute in another developing country

When is the deadline for OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists?

Feb – Apr (probable, when a call runs; no PhD call was run in 2025 and none has been confirmed for 2026 - check owsd.net) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

What documents do I need for OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); Proof of family income or financial situation (if requested); Admission or offer letter for your chosen programme; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the OWSD PhD Fellowship for Women Scientists application?

High: Host Supervisor Acceptance Letter + PhD Research Proposal + 2 Reference Letters + No-Objection Certificate