AAUW International Fellowships 2026–27 – Fully Funded Postgraduate Study in the USA for Women

The International Fellowships, awarded by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), support women who are non‑U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing full-time Master’s, professional, or doctoral degrees in the United States. These fellowships emphasize academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing women and girls.

 Fellowship Details & Award Structure

• Master’s / First Professional Degree Fellows: $20,000 stipend
• Doctoral Fellows: $25,000 stipend
• Disbursed in two equal payments—beginning and midpoint of fellowship year.
• Program term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027, with application period August 1 – September 30, 2025. Awards notified April 15, 2026.

 Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must identify as women and be non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents.
• Require at least a 3.5 GPA on a U.S.-equivalent bachelor’s degree.
• Must pursue their first graduate or doctoral degree (Master’s/Professional or Ph.D./Ed.D.) at a U.S.-accredited institution (or for select Graduate Women International members, institutions abroad).
• Fellowship must commence by September 1, 2026 and end on or after April 30, 2027.

 Selection Priorities

Preference is given to applicants who:

• Hold academic acceptance by the application deadline (though conditional offers accepted).
• Demonstrate leadership potential and a clear vision for contributing to women and girls’ advancement.
• Represent countries with historically low AAUW award presence and pursuing first international study experience.
• Currently reside in their home country at the time of application.

 Application Process & Materials

Application submitted online via AAUW portal including:

• Individual narrative statements, academic transcripts, CV, degree verification.
• Two recommendation letters from professional or academic referees (not via dossier services).
• Financial and tax considerations: stipends may be subject to 14‑30% U.S. tax withholding; fellows must manage visa, travel, and compliance requirements.

 Post-Fellowship Opportunities

Alumnae of the International Fellowships are eligible to apply for International Project Grants (up to US $15,000) to implement community-based gender equity projects in their home countries.

 Why It Stands Out

• The longest-running international fellowship for women in the U.S. (since 1917).
• Offers financial freedom to complete postgraduate study without institutional affiliation constraints.
• Promotes global leadership, research capacity, and a network of trailblazing alumnae.
• Honors AAUW’s mission of empowering women and dismantling gender-based educational barriers.

 Official Link