University of Wollongong Australia Women in STEM Scholarships 2025/2026, Australia

AlexDecember 8, 2024

2 4 minutes read

Nestled in the picturesque coastal city of Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia, the University of Wollongong (UOW) stands as a beacon of academic distinction. A forward-thinking institution with a global reach, UOW is recognized for its groundbreaking research and commitment to student success. With a reputation for blending innovation with real-world learning, the university ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide, offering a transformative education that empowers students to thrive in diverse fields.

UOW boasts a vibrant and multicultural campus, with over 35,000 students from more than 140 countries. The university offers a wide array of programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, covering disciplines ranging from engineering and science to business, law, health, and the humanities. With a deep commitment to nurturing career-ready graduates, UOW combines academic excellence with hands-on learning opportunities, creating an environment where students can grow, collaborate, and excel.

Scholarship Description:

Host University: University of Wollongong
Host Country: Australia;
Study Level: Undertake internship Level;
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding;
Scholarship Worth: 1,000$ – 20,000$;
Eligible Countries: International Students, Domestic Students;
Majors Offered: STEM Field, Technology, Engineering, , Medicine, Health
Application Deadline: The Scholarship is open.

The journey of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is one marked by resilience, innovation, and trailblazing accomplishments. Despite the significant strides women have made in these disciplines, they often face unique challenges in fields that have historically been male-dominated. To address these obstacles, many organizations and educational institutions around the world have launched various initiatives, including scholarships, mentorships, and internships, to provide women with the tools and resources they need to succeed. One such initiative is the LIFT Internship Scholarship, offered by the University of Wollongong (UOW), which is tailored for female higher degree research (HDR) candidates.

Valued at $20,000, the LIFT Internship Scholarship provides both financial assistance and the opportunity for professional growth. This scholarship is designed for women who are passionate about leveraging their academic knowledge to solve complex industry problems while further developing their leadership skills. Scholarship recipients gain valuable real-world experience through a three-to-six-month internship with a relevant industry partner, allowing them to deepen their expertise and enhance their career prospects in a hands-on, practical environment.

Scholarship Benefits

The LIFT Internship Scholarship is not just about financial assistance—it is a transformative professional development opportunity designed to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to excel in STEM fields. Here’s a breakdown of the unique benefits offered by the program:

Financial Support: Participants are awarded a $9,000 stipend for a three-month internship, with an additional $1,000 for research group support. For those opting for a six-month internship, the stipend increases to $18,000, offering substantial financial backing.
Leadership and Entrepreneurial Training: The scholarship includes access to the iAccelerate program, valued at $10,000. This program provides specialized courses on leadership, entrepreneurship, and networking, preparing participants to think creatively and venture beyond traditional STEM roles into business and community leadership.
Industry Experience: Through hands-on internships, participants gain real-world experience, applying their academic research to solve industry challenges. This experience builds professional networks, boosts employability, and enhances their understanding of how STEM knowledge can be practically applied in diverse sectors.
Mentorship and Career Guidance: Scholarship recipients benefit from ongoing mentorship by both industry experts and academic advisors at UOW. This guidance is invaluable for navigating the intricacies of STEM careers and for developing strong leadership capabilities.

Additional Benefits Beyond the Stipend:

Expanding Professional Connections: The internship placements create opportunities to build connections with professionals, mentors, and peers who can shape future career paths and collaborations.
Applying Knowledge to Real-World Challenges: The hands-on nature of the internship allows participants to move from theoretical research to practical solutions, strengthening both technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.
Valuable Mentorship: Participants are paired with mentors who offer strategic advice and professional insights, helping them refine their career goals and expand their professional capabilities.
Enhanced Leadership Potential: Through the iAccelerate program, participants develop critical leadership skills, boosting their confidence and equipping them to lead teams, drive innovation, and create lasting impact within their field.

Eligibility Requirements

The LIFT Internship Scholarship is an exclusive opportunity for female students, both domestic and international, who are enrolled in higher degree research (HDR) programs at the University of Wollongong (UOW), focusing on STEM fields. The following eligibility criteria apply:

Current Enrollment in HDR Programs: Applicants must be enrolled in HDR programs at UOW within one of the following disciplines: Engineering, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Computer Science and Information Technology, Mathematics, or Physics.
Leadership and Community Engagement: Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong desire to grow as leaders, engage in community-driven initiatives, and embrace entrepreneurial thinking—qualities that align with the scholarship’s mission to foster well-rounded STEM leaders.
Willingness to Gain Industry Experience: Applicants must be prepared to dedicate a minimum of 12 weeks to an internship, committing at least four days a week to gain hands-on industry experience and practical skills.
Commitment to Diversity: UOW strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, reflecting its ongoing dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within STEM disciplines.

Application Process

The application procedure for the LIFT Internship Scholarship is designed to evaluate candidates’ suitability for the program and their alignment with its goals. Below is a comprehensive guide to the application process:

Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Interested applicants should email an Expression of Interest to [email protected]. The EOI must include:
- A concise two-page summary of the applicant’s current research project.
- Details about any potential industry partners or internship opportunities.
- A personal statement explaining how the scholarship will contribute to the applicant’s academic and career growth.
Assistance with Industry Partnerships: Applicants without a confirmed industry partner should not be discouraged. UOW offers support in connecting candidates with suitable industry partners, ensuring that all applicants can meet the internship requirement.
Evaluation Process: Applications will be assessed based on the candidate’s research experience, alignment with the scholarship’s mission, and potential for growth in leadership and entrepreneurship.
Final Selection: Shortlisted candidates may be asked to submit additional documents or participate in an interview as part of the final selection stage.