The AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowships program has been empowering women from around the world since 1917. This prestigious program offers financial support to women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States. The fully funded fellowship is specifically designed for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who plan to return to their home countries to contribute to professional careers that advance women and girls.
The International Fellowships in the US provide substantial funding ranging from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the level of study. These fellowships are intended to support outstanding women scholars who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to improving the lives of women and girls through their professional careers. Whether you’re aiming to pursue a Master’s, Doctoral, or Postdoctoral degree, this fellowship can significantly ease the financial burden of studying in the U.S. and provide a pathway to achieving your academic and professional goals.
Quick Overview of AAUW International Fellowships 2025-26
- Host Country: United States
- Host Institution: Any accredited U.S. higher education institution
- Application Deadline: November 15, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST)
- Programs Covered:
- Master’s/First Professional Degree
- Doctoral Degree
- Postdoctoral Research
- Fellowship Value:
- Master’s/First Professional Degree: $20,000
- Doctoral: $25,000
- Postdoctoral: $50,000
- Eligibility: Open to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who intend to return to their home country to pursue a professional career.
Perks of the International Fellowships for Women
- The fellowship provides substantial funding to cover educational expenses, living expenses, dependent child care, and travel to professional meetings, conferences, or seminars (up to 10% of the fellowship total).
- This fellowship is tailored to women who are committed to advancing the lives of women and girls, offering a platform to develop skills and knowledge that will have a lasting impact.
- Fellowship recipients join a global network of AAUW alumnae, gaining access to valuable resources, mentorship opportunities, and professional connections.
- Being an AAUW fellow adds significant prestige to your academic and professional profile, opening doors to further opportunities in your field.
Benefits of the American Association of University Women International Fellowships
- The fellowship covers tuition and other educational expenses, allowing you to focus entirely on your studies and research.
- The fellowship provides funding to cover living costs, which can be a major relief for international students in the U.S.
- If you have dependent children, the fellowship includes an allowance to help with childcare costs.
- As part of the AAUW community, you’ll have the chance to connect with other women scholars and professionals who share your commitment to advancing gender equality.
Eligibility Criteria for the Fellowships for Women in the USA
- Applicants must be citizens of a country other than the U.S. or possess a nonimmigrant visa if residing in the U.S.
- Applicants must hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree by the application deadline.
- Applicants must intend to devote themselves full-time to their academic plan during the fellowship year and plan to return to their home country to pursue a professional career.
- Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through acceptable and valid TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge Assessment scores, or other approved means.
- Applicants must have applied to an accredited institution in the U.S. by the AAUW application deadline. Acceptance is not required at the time of application, but proof of acceptance is required before receiving the fellowship.
Important Dates for the AAUW Fellowships for Women
- Application Opens: September 3, 2024
- Application Deadline: November 15, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time (PST)
- Notification of Decisions: April 15, 2025
- Fellowship Year: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
How to Apply for the Fellowships for International Students
- Visit the AAUW Application Portal to create an account and begin your application.
- Fill out the application form, providing all required information, including your academic background, study plans, and career goals.
- Upload transcripts or official letters from the institution where you obtained your highest degree.
- Upload your TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge Assessment scores, or other approved documentation.
- Provide two recommendations from professors or professional colleagues familiar with your academic work and your commitment to advancing women and girls.
- Submit a detailed proposal outlining your intended academic or research plan and how it aligns with your career goals.
- Carefully review your application and supporting documents before submission.
- Submit your completed application by the deadline on November 15, 2024.
Required Documents for the Fellowships in the US
- Completed Online Application: Accessed through the AAUW application portal.
- Academic Transcripts: Showing courses taken and grades received.
- Proof of Degree: Certificate or diploma of your highest degree.
- English Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge Assessment, or other accepted proofs.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from academic or professional referees.
- Research Proposal: Detailed plan of your intended research or study.
Selection Criteria for the AAUW International Fellowships 2025-2026
- Your academic record and achievements.
- Demonstrated dedication to advancing the status of women and girls in your home country.
- The potential impact of your research or study on your community or country.
- The quality and feasibility of your proposed academic plan.
- Evidence of leadership and community service.
For more information and to apply, visit the AAUW Fellowship page.
