Top Scholarships for Women in Engineering in India

In recent years, the number of women pursuing engineering in India has steadily increased, breaking stereotypes and establishing a stronger presence in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. However, the high cost of education and other socio-economic challenges can hinder many from reaching their full potential. To promote gender equality and support deserving female students, several organizations and institutions offer scholarships exclusively for women in engineering. This article presents a comprehensive list of top scholarships available to women engineering aspirants and students in India.

1. Adobe Women-in-Technology Scholarship

Eligibility:

Female students in undergraduate or master’s programs in engineering or computer science.
Should be enrolled at an Indian university.

Benefits:

Tuition fee coverage
Opportunity for internship at Adobe
Mentorship from Adobe professionals
Invitation to the Adobe India Women-in-Technology Summit

Highlights:
This prestigious scholarship aims to encourage women to excel in computing and technology disciplines.

2. Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program (formerly Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship)

Eligibility:

Female students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in computer science or related technical fields.
Must demonstrate strong academic background and leadership skills.

Benefits:

Scholarship amount (varies annually)
Retreat at a Google office
Access to a community of fellow scholars

Highlights:
This global initiative supports women in tech and fosters connections through networking and development opportunities.

3. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships – India Program

Eligibility:

Female students pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) or Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in India.
First-year students must have completed their higher secondary education in India.

Benefits:

Financial aid (usually INR 25,000 to INR 50,000)
Recognition from SWE and access to professional networks

Highlights:
SWE is an international organization supporting women in engineering. The India chapter offers scholarships tailored to local needs.

4. Pragati Scholarship Scheme by AICTE

Eligibility:

Female students admitted to AICTE-approved technical institutions.
Family income must be less than ₹8 lakh per annum.
Two girls per family can apply.

Benefits:

₹50,000 per year for every year of study
Applicable for tuition, books, stationery, and equipment

Highlights:
Offered by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), this scholarship supports over 5,000 girls every year.

5. Tata Housing Scholarship for Meritorious Girl Students

Eligibility:

Female students in second year of civil engineering or architecture.
Must have scored at least 50% in all previous exams.
Annual family income should be below ₹3 lakh.

Benefits:

One-time scholarship of ₹60,000
Open to students across India

Highlights:
An initiative of Tata Housing Development Company, this scholarship encourages women to pursue careers in construction and real estate sectors.

6. Rolls-Royce Unnati Scholarship for Women Engineering Students

Eligibility:

Female students in 1st/2nd/3rd year of BE/BTech in core fields (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, etc.)
Family income less than ₹4 lakh per annum

Benefits:

Scholarship amount up to ₹35,000
Mentoring opportunities from Rolls-Royce engineers

Highlights:
The Unnati program aims to promote diversity in engineering and empower women with leadership potential.

7. Santoor Women’s Scholarship (by Wipro Consumer Care and Wipro Cares)

Eligibility:

Passed class 12 from government schools in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, or Chhattisgarh.
Should be pursuing a degree in any stream, including engineering.

Benefits:

₹24,000 per annum till the completion of the degree
Covers tuition and incidental expenses

Highlights:
This program supports economically disadvantaged girls and encourages higher education among rural women.

8. Internshala Career Scholarship for Girls

Eligibility:

Female student between the age of 17 to 23 years
Must have a career goal and a compelling story of struggle

Benefits:

₹25,000 scholarship
Recognition and certificate from Internshala

Highlights:
Though not exclusively for engineering, many women in tech have benefited from this opportunity to fund skills training or courses.

9. L'Oréal India For Young Women in Science Scholarship

Eligibility:

Girl students who have completed class 12 in science with at least 85% marks
Pursuing graduation in science/engineering/medicine or related fields
Annual family income less than ₹6 lakh

Benefits:

Up to ₹2.5 lakh in total financial assistance for the full degree

Highlights:
This scholarship is designed to support brilliant girls from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing science and technology careers.

10. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) Scholarships

Eligibility:

Full-time students in 1st year of engineering degree programs
Family income should not exceed ₹1 lakh per annum
Special preference for girls and SC/ST/OBC candidates

Benefits:

₹3,000 per month for 4 years

Highlights:
IOCL’s merit-based scholarships promote education across diverse communities and encourage inclusion.

Tips for Applying to Scholarships

Research Early: Start identifying relevant scholarships before or at the beginning of your academic year.
Maintain Good Academics: Most scholarships require a strong academic record.
Build a Resume: Highlight extracurricular achievements, internships, and leadership roles.
Write a Strong SOP/Essay: Be honest and passionate about your goals and background.
Track Deadlines: Set reminders and apply well before the closing dates.
Collect Required Documents: This often includes income certificates, mark sheets, identity proof, and admission confirmation letters.

Conclusion

The availability of scholarships for women in engineering in India reflects a positive shift towards inclusivity in technical education. These scholarships not only provide financial relief but also serve as a platform for recognition, growth, and empowerment. Whether you are a school leaver aiming to enter an engineering college or a current student seeking support, there are multiple opportunities to tap into. With the right planning and effort, aspiring women engineers can overcome financial barriers and achieve their academic and career dreams.