iWIST SCHOLARSHIPS
Woman of Innovation Scholarship Criteria
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Island Women in Science and Technology (iWIST) is pleased to provide financial support through their partnership with Shift. The award includes a complimentary year-long membership to iWIST.
Student Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 Scholarship of $5000, applicants must be enrolled in and pursuing a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a STEM field (courses must be primarily STEM). Diploma and certificate programs are not eligible.
Applicants must have completed at least one full calendar year of full-time study in their degree program at the time of application. Those who have not yet completed their first year are not eligible.
The 2026 scholarship will be awarded to a student who:
Self-identifies as a woman
Is enrolled at a post-secondary institution located on Vancouver Island (students residing on the island but enrolled in programs located elsewhere, such as BCIT, are not eligible
Can demonstrate their interest in social innovation and inclusivity
Available to accept their award in person at the iWIST August event, exact date TBA
Selection Criteria
To receive a Woman of Innovation Scholarship, your application should demonstrate:
A clear commitment to a future career in a computer science or software engineering
Dedication to social innovation and inclusivity
Strong communication skills, particularly in telling their story
Clear and innovative thinking respecting the evolving role of technology in our Society
Confidence in making a difference by completing their education
Required Documents
Please ensure that your completed application contains the following:
All application form fields completed, including a complete answer to the essay question
Unofficial transcripts of post-secondary studies, at a Vancouver Island educational institute
One reference form – speaking directly to your involvement in your local STEM community
Please ensure your email application is open before clicking “Apply Now.” The button will launch a new email to submit your application.
General questions about the award should be emailed to: scholarships@iwist.ca
Application deadline
11:59 PM, June 1, 2026
You will be notified of the results of your application by email from iWIST. If you receive a scholarship, payments will be issued to you directly by iWIST.
Deferrals
If circumstances arise which require you to interrupt or postpone your studies, you may request a deferral of the awarding of a Women in STEM Scholarship for a period of one year.