The Women at Microsoft Scholarship (also known as the Microsoft Scholarship for Women) is an empowering initiative designed to support high school seniors who identify as women, non-binary, gender fluid, or transgender women in pursuing careers in the technology industry. Administered by Scholarship America on behalf of the Women at Microsoft Inclusion Network and the Seattle Foundation, this programme provides financial assistance to help recipients study technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science in the United States.
This scholarship aims to promote gender diversity in STEM fields by recognising academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Key Details for the 2026 Cycle
- Total Funding: Up to $80,000 (based on up to 16 awards; note: some sources reference variations, but current programme details indicate up to 16 recipients).
- Award Amount: One-time award of $5,000 (USD) per recipient.
- Number of Awards: Up to 16.
- Application Deadline: 16 March 2026 at 3:00 PM CT (Central Time).
- Academic Year: For the upcoming academic year following high school graduation.
- Eligibility for International Applicants: Yes, open to international students, provided they plan to enrol full-time at an accredited U.S. college, university, or vocational-technical school.
- Ineligible: Employees of Microsoft and their children.
Important Note: The award is for undergraduate study only and is non-renewable. Past recipients cannot reapply.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Women at Microsoft Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be a graduating high school senior.
- Self-identify as a woman (cisgender or transgender), non-binary, gender fluid, or transgender woman.
- Plan to enrol full-time in an undergraduate programme related to technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year.
- Have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent).
Selection Criteria
Recipients are chosen based on a holistic review, including:
- Academic performance.
- Demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities.
- Work experience.
- Statement of educational and career goals and objectives.
- Unusual personal or family circumstances.
- An online recommendation.
- Demonstrated financial need (calculated by Scholarship America; recipients must show need).
Finalists are selected by Scholarship America, with Microsoft making the final recipient decisions. All decisions are final.
Required Documents and Application Materials
Applicants must submit the following electronically through the online portal:
- A current, complete high school transcript (must include student name, school name, grades, credit hours, and terms; grade reports are not accepted).
- For international applicants: Upper secondary school diploma/certificate (if earned), examination results, and English translations of any non-English documents.
- If SAT or ACT scores are not on the transcript, upload separate score reports.
- College transcripts (if applicable).
- One online letter of recommendation (submitted by your recommender no later than three business days after the application deadline).
- Statement of career and educational goals and objectives.
- Financial need documentation/information (as part of the application process).
All materials must be submitted online; incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply for the Women at Microsoft Scholarship 2026 – Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official programme page: Go to the Microsoft Women at Microsoft Scholarship webpage. This page redirects to the Scholarship America application hub.
- Access the application portal: Click the apply link, which directs to the Scholarship America Hub (e.g., via scholarsapply.org or the specific programme profile).
- Create an account: Set up a new account using a personal, active email address (avoid using school or work emails, as access must continue long-term). Add [email protected] and the programme email to your safe sender’s list to avoid missing notifications.
- Complete the online application: Fill in all required sections, including personal details, academic information, essays (e.g., statement of goals), financial need details, and upload supporting documents (transcripts, etc.).
- Request your recommendation: Provide details for your recommender so they can submit the online form directly (they have a short grace period after the deadline).
- Review and submit: Double-check everything before submitting by the deadline of 16 March 2026, 3:00 PM CT.
- Wait for notification: All applicants will be notified in June via email about the outcome.