The 2026 Faculty for the Future Fellowship, offered by the Schlumberger Foundation, is a prestigious funding opportunity designed exclusively for talented women from developing and emerging economies who are pursuing PhD or post-doctoral research in STEM fields. The fellowship not only supports tuition and research costs but also empowers women to return to their home countries and drive social and economic progress through education, research, entrepreneurship, and policymaking. With grants of up to USD 50,000 for PhD students and USD 40,000 for post-doctoral researchers, this fellowship is a life-changing chance for aspiring women leaders in STEM.
About the Schlumberger Foundation
The Schlumberger Foundation, established with the mission of empowering women in science and technology, plays a transformative role in shaping global STEM research. Since its inception, the foundation has recognized the importance of gender equity and the necessity of advancing women’s participation in academia and research. Through the Faculty for the Future program, it builds a bridge for women scholars to pursue world-class research abroad while ensuring they return home with the skills, knowledge, and leadership capacity to tackle local and regional challenges.
Each year, the foundation attracts hundreds of applications, with over 400 applicants for the 2024–2025 cycle, of which 56 new awards were granted. Its rigorous selection process ensures that recipients not only demonstrate academic excellence but also a strong commitment to leadership, teaching, and community impact.
Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026 Overview
Detail | Information |
Name | Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026 |
Host Organization | Schlumberger Foundation |
Eligible Degree Levels | PhD and Post-Doctoral Research |
Fields of Study | STEM disciplines (Engineering, Physical Sciences, Computer Science, Mathematics) |
Duration | Annual renewal, up to the completion of PhD or post-doc research |
Value | Up to USD 50,000 (PhD) and USD 40,000 (Post-Doc) per year |
Additional Support | Exceptional childcare grant (up to USD 10,000 per year) |
Application Deadline | November 7, 2025 |
Results Announcement | Early April 2026 |
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants of the Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026 will receive:
- Full or partial coverage of tuition and bench fees
- Living allowance (including accommodation, food, books, and supplies)
- Travel costs to the host country
- Visa charges and conference participation expenses
- Medical insurance support
- Exceptional childcare grant (up to USD 10,000 per year, depending on the number and age of children)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following conditions to apply:
- Must be a woman from a developing country or emerging economy (dual citizenship with a developed country makes applicants ineligible).
- Must be pursuing or admitted to a PhD or post-doctoral program in STEM disciplines.
- Must be enrolled, admitted, or applied to a host university/research institute abroad.
- Must have a record of academic excellence and strong references.
- Must demonstrate a commitment to returning to the home country to contribute to development.
- Must have a proven record of teaching experience and/or leadership in STEM outreach.
- Must actively encourage women and girls to enter STEM fields.
- Applications will not be accepted for Master’s level programs.
Application Process
The application process for the 2026 Faculty for the Future Fellowship is competitive and consists of multiple stages. Follow these steps to apply:
- Step 1: Confirm eligibility by reviewing the list of eligible countries.
- Step 2: Register an account at the official application portal here.
- Step 3: Prepare necessary documents, including research proposal, academic transcripts, CV, and references.
- Step 4: Submit your application online between September 1 and November 7, 2025.
- Step 5: Ensure reference letters are submitted by November 14, 2025.
- Step 6: Await the multi-stage selection process, which includes eligibility screening, academic review, scientific committee evaluation, interviews, and final approval.
- Step 7: Results will be published in April 2026.
Comparison with Similar Fellowships
Feature | Faculty for the Future Fellowship | OWSD PhD Fellowship | AAUW International Fellowship |
Host | Schlumberger Foundation | Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World | American Association of University Women |
Target Group | Women in STEM from developing/emerging economies | Women from developing countries pursuing PhD in STEM | Women worldwide (all fields) pursuing postgraduate study in the US |
Funding Amount | Up to USD 50,000/year (PhD) | Full tuition, living stipend, travel | USD 20,000–50,000 depending on degree |
Degree Level | PhD & Post-Doctoral | PhD | Master’s, PhD, Post-Doctoral |
Special Features | Childcare grant, strong return-home requirement | Focus on developing-country institutions | Available for study only in the US |
FAQs About Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026
- Who can apply for the Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026?
Women from developing and emerging economies pursuing PhD or post-doctoral research in STEM fields. - Does the fellowship support Master’s programs?
No, the fellowship is exclusively for PhD and post-doctoral research. - Can I apply if I have dual citizenship?
No, applicants with dual citizenship that includes a developed country are ineligible. - What is the funding amount?
Up to USD 50,000 annually for PhD and USD 40,000 for post-doctoral research. - Does the fellowship cover childcare expenses?
Yes, childcare grants up to USD 10,000 per year are available under specific conditions. - What fields of study are prioritized?
STEM disciplines, particularly engineering, mathematics, computer science, and physical sciences. - Can I apply if I have not yet secured university admission?
You must at least have applied to a host university or research institute abroad to be eligible. - How many awards are given annually?
In recent years, around 50–60 new grants are awarded per cycle from hundreds of applications. - When is the deadline to apply for Schlumberger Foundation fellowship?
The deadline is November 7, 2025. - When will the results be announced?
Successful applicants will be informed in April 2026.
Important Notes
- Plan your application early as references and supporting documents require time.
- Clearly highlight your academic achievements, leadership experience, and commitment to returning home.
- Ensure your application reflects not only academic ability but also your impact on women and girls in STEM.
If you are a woman aspiring to lead in STEM research and want to make a difference in your community, the Faculty for the Future Fellowship 2026 is your opportunity to shine. Start your application today via the official portal of Schlumberger Foundation before November 7, 2025. APPLY NOW.
Want to explore more global fellowships, scholarships, and research opportunities? Subscribe to our platform for regular updates and resources to help you achieve your academic and career goals.