In a groundbreaking step to support gender diversity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the Duolingo English Test (DET) has announced the launch of the DETermined Scholarship, specifically aimed at empowering Indian women. This initiative, which promises to redefine educational opportunities for women in STEM, was unveiled during a press conference in New Delhi by Severin Hacker, Co-Founder and CTO of Duolingo, and Carrie Wang, Senior Director of Growth at DET.

The DETermined Scholarship is a one-time grant of USD 30,000, aimed at covering tuition fees for Indian women pursuing a master’s degree in STEM at a U.S. university that accepts the DET for admissions. The scholarship will take effect for the academic year 2026–2027. This visionary initiative is being executed in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, which serves as the knowledge partner.

Breaking Barriers in STEM for Indian Women

India has seen remarkable progress in STEM education, boasting the highest global participation of women in this field. According to the University Grants Commission (UGC), women in STEM participation increased from 38.4% a decade ago to 42.6% today. However, challenges such as gender biases, financial limitations, and lack of mentorship continue to hinder many talented women from achieving their full potential.

The DETermined Scholarship addresses these barriers by providing financial support, mentorship, and a robust platform for Indian women to excel globally. This initiative underscores Duolingo’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and diverse educational ecosystem, aiming to empower the next generation of women leaders in STEM.

Addressing the media, Severin Hacker, CTO and Co-Founder of Duolingo, remarked, “As someone who benefited immensely from studying abroad, I strongly believe in the transformative power of education. The DETermined Scholarship reflects Duolingo’s mission to break barriers and create opportunities for students everywhere. By supporting talented women in STEM, we aim to contribute to a more inclusive and innovative future for India and the world.”

The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has been a vocal advocate for bridging gender gaps in STEM. Recognizing the role of women in driving innovation and contributing to economic growth, the government emphasizes the importance of initiatives like the DETermined Scholarship.

Empowering women in STEM not only enhances diversity but also introduces unique perspectives that drive groundbreaking solutions. This collaboration with Duolingo allows the PSA to further its mission of enabling Indian women to access world-class education and return as changemakers in science and technology.

Dr. Sapna Poti, Director of Strategic Alliances at the Office of the PSA, stated, “The Office of the PSA is deeply committed to empowering women in STEM. With India leading globally in women’s participation in STEM, this partnership with Duolingo for the DETermined Scholarship is a pivotal step in nurturing future leaders. It aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat by equipping women with cutting-edge skills to drive innovation on a global scale.”

The Duolingo English Test: A Gateway to Global Education

The Duolingo English Test is a modern, accessible, and affordable solution for students to demonstrate English proficiency. With features like online testing, results within 48 hours, and AI-powered security protocols, the DET has become a trusted tool for over 5,500 universities worldwide.

For Indian women aspiring to pursue advanced STEM education in the U.S., the DET provides a flexible alternative to traditional language proficiency exams, allowing them to focus on their academic goals without the logistical challenges of offline testing.

By eliminating financial and mentorship barriers, the DETermined Scholarship has the potential to inspire countless Indian women to dream big in STEM fields. This initiative not only amplifies Duolingo’s mission of making education accessible but also strengthens India’s position as a global leader in innovation. The DETermined Scholarship is a beacon of hope for aspiring Indian women, proving that with the right support, their dreams are achievable. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of education in transforming lives and societies.