March 8th, International Women’s Day, is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality. For Afghan women and girls, this day serves as a powerful reminder of their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Over the past years, Afghan women have faced significant challenges, including restrictions on education and professional opportunities. Yet, despite these barriers, many organizations worldwide continue to support Afghan women through scholarships, fellowships, and grants, enabling them to pursue education, leadership roles, and career growth.
Education, funding, and mentorship are critical tools in advancing gender equality. By providing Afghan women with access to higher education and professional development, these programs not only empower individuals but also contribute to the broader goal of rebuilding communities and fostering sustainable progress.

The Best Opportunities for Women in 2025

Despite the challenges, numerous international organizations remain committed to supporting Afghan women. Below are some key opportunities available in 2025 and 2024:

• Inspiring Women in Science Awards 2025 ($50,000 Prize)
  • Application Deadline: April 9, 2025 (11:59 pm UTC)
  • What does it provide?
    • Winners receive $50,000 in prize money.
    • Runners-up receive $5,000 in prize money.
    • Invitation to the award ceremony in London or New York, with travel and accommodation covered.
    • Coverage on Nature.com, offering global recognition and exposure.
    • Mentorship opportunities through The Estée Lauder Companies.
    • Shortlisted applicants gain access to an exclusive coaching and networking community.
• Asian University for Women Summer 2025 Application Is Now Open
  • Application Deadline: TBC
  • What does it provide?
    • Tuition fees
    • Room and board
    • Course supplies
    • Primary healthcare costs
    • International travel costs
• Bocconi University’s Women Awards 2025 for Women in STEM
  • Application Deadline: May 27, 2025 (23:59 Italian time)
  • What does it provide?
    • 100% tuition waiver for the entire MSc program.
    • Recognition of academic excellence and leadership potential in STEM
• United World Colleges UWC Scholarship for Afghan Youths
  • Application Deadline: Expired for 2025
  • What does it provide?
    • 70 % of students receive full or partial financial assistance based on their needs.
• Maria Rosario Lazzati Niada Scholarship for Afghan Women
  • Deadline: Expired for 2025
  • What does it provide?
    • Annual amount of 25,000 Swiss francs
• UNHCR and DAFI Scholarship for Refugees in Pakistan
  • Application Deadline: Rolling applications.
  • What does it provide?
    • Tuition fees
    • Book costs 
    • Travel costs
• Hanns Seidel Scholarship Program (HSSP) for Afghan Refugees in Pakistan
  • Application Deadline: N/A
  • What does it provide?
    • Each student receives a scholarship grant every month.
    • A laptop must be returned to HSF before the end of the funding period
• AAUW International Fellowships 2025-26 in the U.S. for Women
  • Application Deadline: Expired for 2025
  • What does it provide?
    • Master’s or first professional degree: $20,000
    • Doctoral degree: $25,000
    • Postdoctoral degree: $50,000

How These Programs Contribute to Women’s Empowerment?

Such a program can help the women with the following issues:

• Breaking Barriers: Education enables Afghan women to challenge societal norms and secure roles in decision-making.
• Creating Role Models: Women who gain access to higher education inspire others in their communities to pursue their dreams.
• Building Sustainable Futures: These opportunities help Afghan women contribute to economic development and social progress.

Empower Afghan Girls and Women

International Women’s Day is not just about celebrating achievements—it’s also about taking action. If you are an Afghan woman looking for educational and professional opportunities, apply for these scholarships and fellowships. If you know someone who could benefit from them, share this information and encourage them to apply.

The power of education and mentorship can change lives. Together, we can ensure that Afghan women continue to rise, thrive, and lead the way toward a brighter future. Let’s spread awareness and make these opportunities count.