Duolingo Launches $30,000 ‘DETermined’ Scholarship for Indian Women in STEM

Introduction: A New Opportunity for Aspiring Women in Science and Tech
In a powerful initiative to empower Indian women pursuing careers in science and technology, the Duolingo English Test (DET), in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, has launched the ‘DETermined’ Scholarship. This new program offers a one-time grant of approximately $30,000 (₹25 lakh) for tuition support toward undergraduate or postgraduate STEM programs in the U.S., beginning in Spring 2026.

Applications are currently open and can be submitted through the Manthan portal.

Addressing Financial Barriers in STEM Education

Despite steady growth in women’s participation in STEM in India—according to UGC data, the percentage rose from 38.4% in 2014 to 42.6% in 2024—financial challenges remain a significant hurdle. The DETermined Scholarship aims to bridge this financial gap for high-achieving Indian women who wish to study at international institutions.

The program is designed to support those who aspire to contribute meaningfully to their communities and India’s growing innovation landscape by acquiring global STEM education and returning to drive change at home.

Scholarship Benefits: What’s on Offer?

• One-time grant of USD 30,000 (~₹25 lakh)
• Covers tuition fees for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate STEM degrees
• Valid only for U.S. universities that accept Duolingo English Test scores
• Amount disbursed directly to the university toward Spring 2026 tuition
   

This scholarship is not a recurring award but a substantial one-time contribution that eases a major financial burden for selected candidates.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

To be considered for the DETermined Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Identify as female and be an Indian citizen currently residing in India
• Minimum 60% academic score in the science stream from a recognized Indian institution
• A Duolingo English Test score of 120 or higher
• Must intend to pursue a full-time STEM undergraduate or postgraduate degree in the U.S.
• The university must accept Duolingo English Test (DET) scores
   

Additional attributes sought in candidates include:

• Demonstrated leadership qualities
• An innovative mindset
• A passion for addressing community or global challenges
• Intentions to return to India and potentially launch a startup or scalable initiative
   

Selection Process: Three Stages to Final Award

The scholarship selection is a multi-phase evaluation process:

1. Application Submission
    
   • Applications must be submitted via the Manthan portal
   • Must include:
      
     • Duolingo English Test score
     • Academic transcripts
     • Personal and academic background details
     • A short essay or video on the applicant’s vision for innovation in STEM
        
2. STEM Impact Proposal Challenge
    
   • Shortlisted candidates present a solution to a real-world STEM problem
   • Format: Either a 1,000-word proposal or a 5-minute video presentation
   • The focus is on innovation, feasibility, and relevance to community or global issues
      
3. Final Interview
    
   • Virtual interaction with a selection jury, comprising experts from academia, industry, and government
   • Candidates will elaborate on their STEM proposal and long-term aspirations
      

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser will act as a knowledge partner and participate in overseeing the selection process.

Timeline: Key Dates to Remember

• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
• Evaluation Period: July–August 2025
• Winner Announcement: September 2025
• Program Start: Spring 2026 (U.S. academic session)
   

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Applications are to be submitted via:

• The Manthan portal (official application site)
• Or Duolingo’s official grants webpage
   

Both platforms offer step-by-step guidance, eligibility information, document upload options, and updates on deadlines. Interested candidates are encouraged to begin preparing their DET scores, transcripts, and proposal materials early.

Conclusion: Empowering India’s Next Generation of Women Innovators

The DETermined Scholarship stands as more than just financial aid—it is a gateway to opportunity, innovation, and leadership for Indian women in STEM. By combining the power of AI-enabled language testing with visionary education policy partnerships, Duolingo and the PSA’s office are sending a clear message: the future of science and technology must include—and be led by—diverse voices from all corners of the world.

For Indian women who aspire to global academic success and make an impact back home, this scholarship provides a transformative stepping stone.

Quick Recap: DETermined Scholarship Highlights

• What: $30,000 tuition grant for women in STEM
• Who: Indian female citizens with ≥60% in science and DET score ≥120
• Where: U.S. universities accepting DET scores
• When to Apply: Before June 30, 2025
• How to Apply: Through the Manthan portal or Duolingo’s website
• Announcement of Winner: September 2025
   

For complete details and updates, visit the Manthan portal or Duolingo’s grants section.