Duolingo Launches Scholarship for Indian Women in STEM

In a transformative move to bridge the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Duolingo has introduced the DETermined Scholarship, a world-class initiative aimed at empowering Indian women to pursue world-class education in the United States.

Launched in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, this scholarship offers a substantial one-time grant of USD 30,000 (approximately ₹25 lakh) to support tuition for undergraduate or postgraduate STEM programs starting in Spring 2026.

This initiative not only addresses financial barriers but also fosters a new generation of female innovators poised to shape India’s STEM landscape. With applications now open, here’s everything you need to know about this exciting opportunity.

Why Does the DETermined Scholarship Matters?

The STEM fields have historically been male-dominated, but India is witnessing a promising rise in female participation, with recent data showing an increase from 38.4% to 42.6% over the past decade. Despite this progress, financial constraints often limit Indian women’s access to global education. The DETermined Scholarship tackles this challenge head-on, offering significant financial aid to high-achieving women with a passion for innovation.

By supporting their education at U.S. universities that accept the Duolingo English Test (DET), the scholarship aims to equip recipients with the skills and exposure needed to drive technological advancements and potentially launch successful startups upon returning to India.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?

To ensure the scholarship reaches deserving candidates, Duolingo has outlined clear eligibility criteria:

• Gender and Citizenship: Applicants must identify as female and be Indian citizens residing in India.
• Academic Excellence: Candidates need at least 60% marks in their science stream from a recognized Indian institution. A strong academic record is essential to demonstrate potential in STEM fields.
• English Proficiency: A Duolingo English Test (DET) score of 120 or higher is required, reflecting the importance of language skills for international education.
• Program Enrolment: Applicants must plan to pursue a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate STEM degree at a U.S. university that accepts DET scores, with enrolment starting in Spring 2026.
• Innovation and Leadership: Candidates should showcase leadership skills, a commitment to solving societal issues, and a vision for innovation in STEM. A proposal highlighting these qualities is a key part of the application.
• Intent to Return: Applicants must demonstrate an intention to return to India and contribute to the country’s innovation ecosystem, potentially through startups or other impactful ventures.

These criteria ensure that the scholarship supports talented women who are not only academically strong but also driven to make a lasting impact in STEM.

Application Process and Timeline: How to Apply

The application process for the DETermined Scholarship is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Documents: Gather your academic transcripts, DET score (120+), and proof of Indian citizenship. Ensure all documents are up-to-date and meet the eligibility requirements.
2. Craft a Vision Proposal: Write a compelling proposal showcasing your innovation in STEM, leadership potential, and commitment to societal impact. This is your chance to stand out and demonstrate how you’ll contribute to India’s future.
3. Submit via Manthan Portal: Applications are accepted exclusively through the Manthan portal (manthan.gov.in). Make an account, fill up the application form, and upload all the necessary docs.
4. Timeline: Applications opened in June 2025 and are currently being accepted. The scholarship recipient will be announced in September 2025, with the grant disbursed for the Spring 2026 semester.

Finalists will also receive mentorship from STEM experts, providing guidance to navigate their academic and professional journeys. Early preparation is key, so start working on your DET score and proposal now to meet the deadline.

Benefits Beyond Financial Support

The DETermined Scholarship is more than just a financial grant. It offers recipients access to a global education ecosystem, enabling them to study at top U.S. universities and gain exposure to cutting-edge research and innovation. The mentorship component connects finalists with industry leaders, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities. By encouraging recipients to return to India, the scholarship aims to cultivate a pipeline of women leaders who can drive technological progress and inspire future generations.

Conclusion

The DETermined Scholarship by Duolingo is a game-changer for Indian women in STEM, offering a unique opportunity to overcome financial barriers and pursue world-class education. If you’re an aspiring female STEM student with a vision to transform ideas into reality, this scholarship could be your stepping stone to success.

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