Vienna relies on women: scholarships for MINT careers are exploding!

Vienna relies on women: scholarships for MINT careers are exploding!

On October 31, 2025, Vienna City Councilor for Digitalization Barbara Novak announced at a ceremony that Vienna has established itself as a pioneer in the promotion of women in MINT professions (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology). On the occasion of the waff scholarship program, which was launched three years ago, special focus was placed on the successes and progress of the program. Around 343 scholarships were awarded, of which 61 scholarship holders successfully completed their studies, including 42 Bachelor graduates. These successes were presented as part of the waff networking party “Studying!” appreciated.

The program not only offers financial support, which includes 12,000 euros for bachelor's programs and 9,000 euros for master's programs, but also comprehensive advice and accompanying measures. The offer extends to 39 technical college courses in Vienna, in which women are traditionally underrepresented. waff managing director Marko Miloradović reported increasing interest in technical courses, which indicates the growing importance of women in these areas.

Support measures for women in MINT

Around 700 women have already taken advantage of advice on career orientation and choosing a course of study. The waff scholarship program cooperates closely with the Vienna University Campus to carry out admission procedures and preparatory courses, with individual preparatory courses being funded with up to 5,000 euros. Women now make up more than a fifth of new students in funded courses, which underlines the successful implementation of the initiative.

There are also several programs in Germany that offer support to women in MINT subjects. One of the most prominent programs is the National Pact for Women in STEM Professions “Come, Do STEM”. This network of politicians, researchers and media representatives aims to make it easier for women to access STEM careers. Other programs worth mentioning include CyberMentor, which connects girls with women in STEM careers, and the Ada Lovelace Project, which supports young women in science and technology courses.

A look into the future

Although women in STEM fields are increasingly taking on leadership positions and enriching the scientific community, support is still needed. The increasing interest and positive developments show that men and women should be equally represented in these essential areas. Online courses and self-learning platforms offer additional support and are intended to support women in further developing their MINT skills.

Novak's statement that “Vienna is the city of women” summarizes the city's ambitions to create opportunities for women in promising careers. For further information about the support offers, those interested can visit the website waff.at Visit or call 01 21748 555.