The AAUW International Fellowships program is one of the oldest and most prestigious opportunities for women worldwide to pursue higher education in the United States. Since its establishment in 1917, the fellowship has empowered thousands of women scholars by supporting their master’s and doctoral studies as well as research projects.
This fellowship is designed to promote education and equity for women by providing funding for non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Fellows are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies, applying their knowledge and leadership skills to create meaningful change in their communities.
In addition to U.S.-based fellowships, up to five awards are available to members of Graduate Women International (GWI) for study in countries other than their own.
Fellowship Benefits
Recipients of the International Fellowship receive:
- $20,000 for master’s degree candidates.
- $25,000 for doctoral degree candidates.
- Disbursements are made in two equal payments at the beginning and midpoint of the fellowship term.
- Up to five master’s candidates may qualify for a renewable two-year fellowship if they meet academic requirements.
Funds may be used for tuition, fees, books, housing, childcare, and other living expenses directly tied to the study program.
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Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Identify as women and be non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Be enrolled or admitted to their first master’s or doctoral program in the U.S. by September 1, 2026.
- Pursue studies on a full-time basis at an accredited U.S. institution.
- Demonstrate commitment to empowering women and girls in their home countries.
Preferred applicants include women from countries with low representation among past AAUW fellows, those residing in their home country at the time of application, and those seeking their first international academic experience.
Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed competitively and evaluated on:
- Academic and scholarly excellence.
- Clear and actionable study or research plans.
- Leadership potential and commitment to advancing women and girls.
- Feasibility and impact of proposed projects.
- Applicant’s intended contribution upon returning home.
Timeline for 2025–2027 Fellowship
- Application period: August 1 – September 30, 2025
- Award notification: April 15, 2026
- First stipend disbursement: July–September 2026
- Fellowship term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
- Interim report due: December 15, 2026
- Second stipend disbursement: January 2027
- Final report due: July 31, 2027
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the AAUW Fellowships & Grants Application Portal. Required documents include:
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Proof of highest degree earned and transcripts.
- Proof of admission or enrollment in a U.S. institution.
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, or Duolingo scores).
- A GPA conversion if transcripts are not on a 4.0 scale.
- For GWI members applying outside the U.S., proof of membership is required.
All application materials must be submitted in English or with certified translations. Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.
Why Apply?
The AAUW International Fellowships not only provide financial support but also open doors to mentorship, global academic recognition, and a lifelong network of empowered women leaders. By investing in women’s education, the program continues to create ripple effects that advance gender equity and social progress across the world.
