The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship is a prestigious program aimed at empowering women from developing and emerging economies to pursue advanced research in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Launched in 2004, this fellowship seeks to reduce gender gaps in STEM by supporting exceptional women scientists and researchers.
The fellowship provides up to $50,000 annually for PhD studies and up to $40,000 annually for post-doctoral research at leading universities worldwide. The long-term vision of the program is to create a global community of women leaders in STEM who return to their home countries and contribute to education, policy, and socio-economic development.
Benefits of the Schlumberger Foundation Fellowship
The 2026 fellowship provides generous support to selected scholars:
- Annual grant of up to $50,000 for PhD students.
- Annual grant of up to $40,000 for Post-doctoral researchers.
- Fellowship renewable until the completion of studies (subject to performance).
- Coverage includes tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and research materials.
- Access to the Faculty for the Future community, a network of over 860 fellows from 90+ countries.
- Opportunities for leadership development and participation in STEM outreach.
Eligibility Criteria for the Schlumberger Foundation Fellowship
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender & Citizenship: Must be a woman from a developing or emerging economy where women are underrepresented in STEM fields.
- Must not hold dual citizenship with a developed country.
- Must be applying for or currently enrolled in a PhD or post-doctoral research program abroad in a STEM discipline. (Master’s level studies are not funded.)
- Must demonstrate an excellent academic record and research potential.
- Must show a strong commitment to returning to the home country/region after studies to contribute to its development.
- Must have prior teaching or research experience in their home country.
- Must demonstrate leadership qualities, community outreach, and a commitment to inspiring women and girls in STEM.
Language Requirement: No mandatory IELTS/TOEFL requirement, but applicants must meet the host university’s entry requirements.
Required Documents for the Application
Applicants will typically need to prepare:
- Completed online application form.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume.
- Research proposal (for PhD or post-doctoral work).
- Admission letter or proof of application to a host university abroad.
- References/recommendation letters from academic or professional supervisors.
- Evidence of teaching or community involvement in STEM.
- Proof of citizenship (passport or national ID).
Optional documents:
- Publications list or portfolio (if relevant).
- Certificates of awards or recognitions.
Application Timeline for 2026
- Applications Open: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: November 7, 2025 (12:00 noon CST, UTC-6)
- Reference Letter Deadline: November 14, 2025
- Results Notification: Selected applicants will be informed in early 2026.
How to Apply for the Schlumberger Foundation Fellowship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the listed requirements.
- Prepare Documents: Gather academic transcripts, research proposals, CV, and references.
- Register Online: Create an account on the official Schlumberger Foundation application portal (applications open Sept 1, 2025).
- Complete Application Form: Fill in academic, research, and personal details.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure all documents are in the requested format (PDF preferred).
- Submit Before Deadline: Submit your completed application by November 7, 2025.
- Ensure References are Submitted: Referees must upload letters by November 14, 2025.
Application Tips:
- Use Chrome or Firefox browsers for smooth access to the portal.
- Write a strong research proposal clearly linking your work to your home country’s development.
- Emphasize leadership, teaching, and commitment to STEM outreach in your application.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues.
FAQs about the Schlumberger Foundation Fellowship
1. Is IELTS required?
No, IELTS is not required for the fellowship itself, but you must meet your host university’s language requirements.
2. Can women from Africa and Asia apply?
Yes, the fellowship is specifically targeted at women from developing and emerging economies, including Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other eligible regions.
3. Can the fellowship be renewed?
Yes, funding can be renewed annually until the completion of studies, subject to satisfactory progress.
4. Does the fellowship cover dependents?
The fellowship primarily covers academic and living expenses. Any additional family or dependent support is not guaranteed.
Final Thoughts on the Schlumberger Foundation Fellowship
The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026 offers one of the most significant funding opportunities for women in STEM from developing countries. With up to $50,000 in annual support, this program is not only a financial lifeline but also a leadership platform for future global change-makers. If you are a woman scientist aspiring to pursue PhD or post-doctoral research abroad, this is your chance to step forward.
Apply before November 7, 2025, and join a global network of women shaping the future of STEM.