The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships program is a prestigious opportunity for women from developing countries to pursue advanced STEM studies abroad.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2025 fellowships, including eligibility criteria, application process, selection criteria, and tips for a successful application.
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About the Faculty for the Future Program
Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships 2025: Complete Guide for Women in STEM (Up to $50,000/Year)
The Faculty for the Future program was launched in 2004 by the Schlumberger Foundation to support women from developing and emerging economies in pursuing PhD and post-doctoral studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields at leading universities worldwide.
The program aims to create a community of women leaders who will contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries and regions by strengthening the teaching and research faculties of their home institutions, and pursuing positions of influence in the public and private sectors.
Since its inception, the program has awarded fellowships to over 860 women from 90 countries.
Fellows come from diverse backgrounds and pursue advanced degrees across various STEM disciplines.
Key Details for the 2025 Fellowships
- Application Period: September 2 to November 8, 2024
- Reference Letter Deadline: November 15, 2024
- Fellowship Year: 2025-2026 academic year
- Grant Amount: Up to USD 50,000 per year
- Eligible Degree Programs: PhD and post-doctoral studies in STEM fields
- Eligible Countries: Developing and emerging economies (reviewed annually)
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Faculty for the Future fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a woman
- Be a citizen of a developing country or emerging economy where women are underrepresented in STEM
- Not hold dual citizenship from a developed country
- Be preparing for a PhD degree or post-doctoral research in a STEM discipline
- Be enrolled, admitted or have applied to a host university/research institute abroad
- Hold an excellent academic record
- Be willing to return to home country/region after completing studies
- Have proven teaching experience in home country
- Demonstrate commitment to returning home to an academic/research position, STEM entrepreneurship, or policy-making role
- Show leadership skills and community outreach experience
- Have a track record of encouraging girls and women in STEM
Important: The program does not fund Master’s level studies. Applicants must be pursuing PhD or post-doctoral research.Ineligibility
The following candidates are not eligible:
- Men
- Citizens of developed countries
- Those pursuing Master’s degrees
- Those who have not yet applied to a university abroad
- Schlumberger employees
Application Process
The application process for the 2025 fellowships involves the following steps:
- Check eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify.
- Register online: Create an account on the Faculty for the Future application portal when it opens on September 2, 2024.
- Complete application form: Fill out all sections of the online application form comprehensively.
- Submit required documents: Upload all necessary supporting documents.
- Request reference letters: Nominate referees who will submit confidential reference letters by November 15, 2024.
- Submit application: Review your completed application and submit it by November 8, 2024.
Required Application Materials
A complete application typically includes:
- Completed online application form
- CV/resume
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Research proposal (for PhD/post-doc)
- Statement of purpose
- Proof of admission/enrollment at host university (if available)
- Passport copy
- 2-3 confidential reference letters
Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive and rigorous, consisting of five rounds:
- First Round: Applications are screened for eligibility and overall quality. Non-compliant applications are eliminated.
- Second Round: Eligible applications are scored based on:Academic performance
- Quality of references
- Scientific interest of research proposal
- Commitment to teaching
- Relevance of research to home country
- Commitment to inspiring young women in STEM
- Quality of host university
- Third Round: Shortlisted applications are reviewed by the Schlumberger Foundation scientific committee, focusing on the quality and relevance of the research proposal.
- Fourth Round: Final shortlisted candidates are interviewed by phone by Schlumberger Foundation Board members and executives.
- Final Round: Grant recipients are selected by the Schlumberger Foundation Board of Directors.
Selection Criteria
The key criteria considered during selection include:
- Academic excellence and achievements
- Quality and relevance of proposed research
- Commitment to teaching and returning to home country
- Leadership potential and community engagement
- Ability to serve as a role model for women in STEM
Tips for a Strong Application
To maximize your chances of success, keep these tips in mind:
- Start early: Begin preparing your application well in advance of the deadline.
- Highlight your achievements: Clearly articulate your academic and professional accomplishments.
- Craft a compelling research proposal: Ensure your proposal is well-structured, innovative, and relevant to your home country’s needs.
- Demonstrate commitment: Clearly express your plans to return home and contribute to your country’s development.
- Showcase leadership: Highlight any leadership roles, community service, or mentoring experience.
- Choose strong referees: Select referees who can speak to your academic abilities, research potential, and character.
- Proofread carefully: Ensure your application is free of errors and presents your best self.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants receive:
- Annual grant of up to USD 50,000
- Funding renewable for up to 5 years for PhD and 2 years for post-doctoral research
- Opportunity to attend the Faculty for the Future Fellows Forum
- Access to a global network of women leaders in STEM
Renewal Process
Existing fellows can apply for renewal funding, subject to:
- Satisfactory academic performance
- Evidence of re-integration plans in home country
- Positive recommendations from supervisors
- Availability of funding
Renewal is not automatic and becomes more competitive after the first renewal.
Impact of the Program
The Faculty for the Future program has had a significant impact on advancing women in STEM fields in developing countries:
- Over 860 women from 90 countries have received fellowships since 2004
- Fellows have pursued studies at over 200 top universities worldwide
- Many fellows have returned home to take up academic positions, start innovative businesses, or contribute to policy-making
- The program has helped create a global network of women leaders in STEM
- Fellows serve as role models, inspiring more girls and women to pursue STEM careers
By investing in these talented women, the Schlumberger Foundation is helping to build capacity in STEM fields in developing countries and promote gender equality in science and technology.
How to Stay Informed
To stay updated on the Faculty for the Future program:
- Visit the official website regularly
- Follow the Schlumberger Foundation on social media
- Sign up for email notifications if available
- Check with your university’s international office for announcements
Conclusion
The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships offer a life-changing opportunity for women from developing countries to pursue advanced STEM studies and become leaders in their fields.
By providing financial support, networking opportunities, and a platform for global engagement, the program empowers women to drive innovation and development in their home countries.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about using your STEM expertise to make a difference, we encourage you to apply for the 2025 fellowships. Start preparing early, put your best foot forward in your application, and take the first step towards joining a global community of women leaders in STEM.
Remember, the application period opens on September 2, 2024, and closes on November 8, 2024. Mark your calendars and begin gathering your materials now to submit a strong and timely application.
