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

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is a globally recognized research-intensive university located in Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. UOW has grown into one of Australia’s leading institutions, known for its commitment to innovation, community engagement, and student-centered learning. UOW ranks consistently among the top 1% of universities worldwide, boasting a reputation for academic excellence, world-class research, and high graduate employability.

With a diverse and inclusive community, UOW is home to over 35,000 students from more than 140 countries. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across disciplines such as engineering, sciences, business, humanities, law, and health. Known for its focus on real-world applications of academic knowledge, UOW encourages students to engage in experiential learning opportunities, preparing them for dynamic and impactful careers.

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, aspiration, and breakthroughs. Although women continue to make significant strides in these fields, they face unique challenges in breaking into traditionally male-dominated spaces. Recognizing these hurdles, various institutions and organizations globally have introduced scholarships, mentorship programs, and internship opportunities designed to uplift and empower women in STEM. One notable initiative is the LIFT Internship Scholarship, offered by the University of Wollongong (UOW), which specifically targets higher degree research (HDR) female candidates. This scholarship not only offers financial aid but also promotes industry engagement and leadership growth, aiming to bridge the gender gap in STEM.

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The LIFT Internship Scholarship, valued at $20,000, is crafted for women passionate about applying their academic knowledge to real-world challenges and developing their professional skill set. Designed as a holistic growth opportunity, the scholarship offers a combination of financial support, industry experience, and leadership development. Participants are granted a three-to-six-month internship in a relevant industry, providing a platform to test and expand their knowledge.

Scholarship Benefits

The LIFT Internship Scholarship provides more than just financial aid; it offers a complete professional development package, ensuring participants emerge as well-rounded candidates equipped for STEM careers. Here are the key benefits included in the program:

Financial Assistance: For a three-month internship, candidates receive a $9,000 stipend, alongside an additional $1,000 grant to support their research group. For those opting for a six-month internship, the stipend doubles to $18,000.
Leadership and Entrepreneurship Training: The iAccelerate program is a valuable addition to this scholarship, providing training valued at $10,000. This program offers courses in leadership, entrepreneurship, and networking, enabling participants to think beyond traditional roles and consider pathways such as business ownership and community leadership.
Industry Exposure: Through the internship, candidates gain hands-on experience, build networks within their chosen fields, and learn how to translate their research skills to practical, impactful projects. This exposure enhances their employability and broadens their professional perspectives.
Mentorship Opportunities: Recipients of the scholarship receive guidance from both industry leaders and academic mentors at UOW, fostering their personal and professional growth. These mentors provide insights into navigating the complexities of STEM careers and encourage candidates to aim for leadership roles.

Benefits Beyond the Financial Stipend

The professional growth and real-world experience gained through the LIFT Internship Scholarship can be transformative for women entering STEM fields. Here’s how the program enhances participants’ profiles:

Building Valuable Professional Networks: Industry placements provide an opportunity to connect with professionals and mentors who can guide future career development. These networks can open doors to future job opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.
Applying Theory to Practice: Participants see firsthand how their research can be applied to solve real-world challenges. This experiential learning reinforces their knowledge and enhances their practical skills.
Gaining Mentorship: Mentorship from UOW faculty and industry professionals provides guidance on navigating the STEM landscape. This mentorship can help recipients clarify their career goals and refine their skills.
Leadership Development: The iAccelerate program’s emphasis on leadership and entrepreneurship cultivates participants’ ability to lead teams, innovate in their fields, and make a meaningful impact.

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Eligibility Requirements

The LIFT Internship Scholarship is open to both domestic and international female students enrolled in higher degree research (HDR) programs at UOW, specifically within STEM fields. Here is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

Academic Enrollment: Candidates must be enrolled as HDR students at UOW in one of the following STEM fields: Engineering, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Computer Science and Information Technology, Mathematics, or Physics.
Commitment to Leadership and Community Engagement: Applicants should have a demonstrated interest in leadership development, community engagement, and entrepreneurial skills, which are core aspects of the scholarship.
Willingness to Undertake an Internship: Candidates must commit to a minimum 12-week industry internship, dedicating at least four days per week to the experience.
Diverse Representation: The scholarship strongly encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women to apply, highlighting UOW’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse representation within STEM.

Application Process

Applying for the LIFT Internship Scholarship involves a few structured steps aimed at assessing candidates’ suitability and commitment to the program’s objectives. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Expression of Interest (EOI): Interested applicants should submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via email to Lift-project@uow.edu.au. This document should include:
- A two-page description of the candidate’s research project.
- Details of any industry partner or potential project in mind for the internship.
- An explanation of how the scholarship will enhance the candidate’s academic and career goals.
Industry Partner Matching: Candidates who may not have an industry partner in mind should not be deterred. UOW is committed to helping applicants connect with suitable industry partners, ensuring that all selected participants can complete the internship requirement.
Review and Selection: The applications are reviewed based on candidates’ research background, alignment with the scholarship goals, and readiness to engage with the leadership and entrepreneurship components of the program.
Further Documentation: Selected candidates may be asked to provide additional documentation or participate in interviews as part of the final selection process.