AAUW International Fellowships for Women 2026 , USA (Master’s & Doctorate)
The AAUW International Fellowships program is one of the world’s most prestigious funding opportunities for women pursuing graduate studies in the United States. Offered by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), this fellowship supports international women who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to empowering women and girls in their home countries.
Since its founding in 1917, the AAUW International Fellowship Program has enabled thousands of women scholars to advance their education and contribute to global development through research, leadership, and service. Application cycles, award amounts, and deadlines vary each year, so applicants are advised to check official announcements regularly.
Degree Level
The AAUW International Fellowship supports:
- Master’s Degree
- Doctoral Degree (PhD and professional doctorates)
Available Subjects
Applicants may pursue studies in any academic or professional field, including but not limited to:
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Natural and Physical Sciences
- Business and Management
- Law
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Education
- Architecture
Applicants must apply in one specific field and for one degree level only.
Benefits
AAUW International Fellowships provide generous financial support, which may vary by year:
Annual Stipend
- Master’s Degree: USD $20,000
- Doctoral Degree: USD $25,000
The fellowship may be used for:
- Tuition and academic fees
- Books and supplies
- Housing and living expenses
- Food, transportation, and childcare
Funds are paid in two installments during the fellowship year.
Eligible Nationalities
The fellowship is open to:
- Women from all countries except the United States
- Applicants must be non-U.S. citizens
- Applicants must not hold U.S. permanent resident (green card) status
Graduate Women International (GWI) members may also apply for study in countries other than the U.S., depending on eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the AAUW International Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Identify as a woman
- Be a non-U.S. citizen and not hold U.S. permanent residency
- Be admitted to or enrolled in a full-time Master’s or Doctoral program at a U.S.-accredited institution
- Have at least one degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
- Plan to return to their home country to contribute professionally and socially
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to women’s empowerment and community service
- Meet English proficiency requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.)
Application Procedure
The AAUW International Fellowship application is submitted online through the AAUW portal.
General Steps:
- Create an account on the AAUW Fellowship portal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- GPA conversion to a 4.0 scale
- English proficiency test
- Admission or enrollment proof
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statements and study or research plan
- Submit the application before the official deadline
Important:
Deadlines, stipend amounts, and eligibility rules may change each year, so applicants must always verify information from AAUW before applying.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by independent international panels in:
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Natural and Physical Sciences
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence
- Quality of research or study plan
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to women’s empowerment
- Likelihood of positive impact in the home country
Final Words
The AAUW International Fellowship is a life-changing opportunity for women who want to pursue advanced education in the United States and become leaders in their home countries. With its strong focus on academic excellence, leadership, and women’s empowerment, this fellowship supports not just individual success—but global progress.
