British Council Women in STEM Scholar Zhansaya Kanagatova from Kazakhstan Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master's at the University of Stirling, United Kingdom

My name is Zhansaya Kanagatova, and I am from Astana, Kazakhstan. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Nazarbayev University and recently completed my Master’s degree in Mathematics and Data Science with distinction at the University of Stirling. My academic journey has been driven by a strong interest in applying mathematical and data-driven approaches to real-world problems, particularly in finance, machine learning, and interdisciplinary research.

British Council “Women in STEM” Scholarship Details

I was awarded the British Council “Women in STEM” Scholarship, which fully funded my Master’s studies in the United Kingdom. This scholarship covered tuition fees, living expenses, and additional support for academic development.

Were You Offered Any Other Scholarships?

I was also offered the InterMaths Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Consortium Scholarship, a highly competitive European program supporting advanced studies in mathematics across multiple international universities.

Educational Background

During my undergraduate studies at Nazarbayev University, I built a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and programming. I graduated with a GPA of 3.35, ranking in the top 20% of my cohort. Courses such as Probability, Mathematical Statistics, and Statistical Programming prepared me for advanced studies in data science.

I further strengthened my profile through research experience in mathematics, economics, and mechanical engineering. These experiences helped me develop strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work on complex interdisciplinary problems.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Stirling?

I started preparing my application several months in advance by researching programs that aligned with my academic interests in data science and applied mathematics. I focused on building a strong CV, highlighting my research experience and technical skills, and carefully crafting my motivation letter to clearly communicate my goals and academic interests.

How Did You Find Information About British Council Women in STEM Scholarship and the University of Stirling?

I primarily used official university websites, scholarship platforms, and LinkedIn. I also connected with students and alumni to better understand the programs and application processes.

Standardized Tests

I took the IELTS exam and achieved an overall score of 7.5. To prepare, I practiced consistently using online resources and focused on improving my writing and speaking skills.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the British Council Women in STEM Scholarship?

For the scholarship application, I focused on presenting a clear and cohesive story: my academic background, research experience, and long-term goals. I emphasised my commitment to STEM and to increasing female representation in this field, including being a member of the Women in STEM club at my university.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out due to the combination of strong academic performance, interdisciplinary research experience, and a clear vision for the future. My experience as a research assistant in multiple fields demonstrated my ability to adapt and work on complex problems. Additionally, my leadership experience in promoting women in STEM added a strong personal dimension to my application.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Looking back, I would have started the application process even earlier and applied to a wider range of scholarships and universities to maximise my opportunities.

Advice for Future Applicants

Start early and be strategic. Focus on building a strong profile through academics, research, and extracurricular activities. Most importantly, be authentic in your application - clearly explain your goals and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Don’t underestimate the importance of a well-written motivation letter.