WAAW Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship for African Students 2025: Full Guide for South African Applicants
The WAAW Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the most empowering opportunities available to young African women pursuing STEM fields. For South African female students who dream of building careers in Engineering, ICT, Medicine, Data Science, or any STEM-related programme, this scholarship provides both financial support and mentorship. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about eligibility, requirements, the application process, and tips to improve your chances of being selected.
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About the WAAW Foundation
The Working to Advance African Women (WAAW) Foundation is a global non-profit established in 2007 with the mission to increase the number of African women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, the foundation runs STEM outreach programs, training, mentorship, and scholarships targeting young African women.
Why the WAAW Foundation Scholarship Matters
Many young women across Africa face financial difficulties accessing tertiary education. STEM degrees—often more expensive due to lab work, equipment, and technical resources—can be especially challenging to pursue. The WAAW Foundation Scholarship provides:
- A one-time award of $500 to support tuition, textbooks, and academic-related costs.
- Membership in the WAAW STEM Outreach Chapter at your university.
- Access to leadership training, mentoring, and volunteering opportunities.
- A chance to join a growing network of African women professionals in STEM.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the WAAW Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following:
- Be a female student of African origin, living and studying within Africa.
- Be currently enrolled in a recognised university or college in Africa.
- Be pursuing a STEM-related degree such as Engineering, Computer Science, Agriculture, Biotechnology, Health Sciences, Mathematics, Environmental Science, and similar fields.
- Be in their 1st or 2nd year of study, or 3rd year for a 5-year program.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Have an excellent academic record.
- Show leadership qualities and involvement in volunteering or community service.
- Be below 32 years old at the time of application.
Documents Required for Application
- Two (2) reference letters from academic or professional referees.
- One (1) signed and sealed copy of your current academic transcript.
- One (1) scanned copy of your valid student ID card.
Application Timeline
Application Deadline: 19 December 2025
Early applications are strongly encouraged, as the scholarship is highly competitive. Applicants will be shortlisted based on the quality of their essays, academic performance, and demonstrated passion for STEM.
How to Apply
The application process is fully online. Follow the steps below:
- Visit the official WAAW Foundation Scholarship page: WAAW Foundation Website.
- Fill in the online application form with your personal, academic, and contact details.
- Upload your required documents (ID, transcript, reference letters).
- Submit your essay responses—these play a major role in selection, so write them clearly and convincingly.
For similar opportunities, check more scholarship listings on Wikihii.
What to Expect During the Selection Process
The selection team will assess your application based on:
- Academic excellence
- Financial need
- Leadership qualities
- Commitment to giving back to your community
- A strong passion for STEM
If shortlisted, you may be contacted for interviews or additional assessments. The stronger your essay responses, the higher your chances of being selected.
Common Challenges Applicants Face
South African applicants often struggle with:
- Late submissions due to delays in obtaining academic transcripts or reference letters.
- Weak essays that lack personal stories or clear passion for STEM.
- Poorly scanned documents that appear unclear or incomplete.
Prepare early to avoid these issues.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning
- Start preparing your documents at least 2–3 weeks before the deadline.
- Write authentic essays—tell your story, challenges, and future plans clearly.
- Highlight community involvement and leadership roles.
- Ensure all scanned documents are neat and readable.
- Ask referees early to avoid last-minute pressure.
- Maintain strong academic performance.
Useful Resources
- WAAW Foundation Official Site: Visit Here
- South African NSFAS Funding: NSFAS Website
- SA Youth / Harambee Jobs & Opportunities: sayouth.mobi
- Wikihii Scholarship Updates: Wikihii Jobs & Scholarships
- Join the WhatsApp Channel: Wikihii Updates on WhatsApp
Conclusion
The WAAW Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship is a powerful opportunity for young African women who are passionate about STEM. South African students who meet the requirements are strongly encouraged to apply early, prepare thoroughly, and use this opportunity to advance their education and career prospects. With the right preparation, your chances of success are high.
For daily scholarship, bursary, and job alerts, visit Wikihii and join our WhatsApp updates channel.
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