Overview of the AAUW International Fellowship 2026
The AAUW International Fellowship 2026 is an incredible opportunity for women around the world to pursue higher education in the United States or their home countries.
Funded by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), this program aims to support non-U.S. citizens and non-permanent residents who are dedicated to advancing education, leadership, and social impact in their communities.
Whether you plan to earn a Master’s, Doctoral, or Postdoctoral degree, this fellowship offers comprehensive financial coverage to help you achieve your academic goals without financial stress.
Important Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | November 15, 2025 |
| Results Announcement | April 15, 2026 |
| Fellowship Period | July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 |
Applicants are advised to start early, as the process requires preparation, document verification, and essay writing.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the AAUW International Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
-
Must identify as female and be a citizen of a country other than the United States.
-
Must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree (earned by the application deadline).
-
Must have applied to or be enrolled in an accredited U.S. institution for full-time study or research.
-
Must demonstrate a strong commitment to the advancement of women and girls through community or professional involvement.
-
Must plan to return to their home country after completing the fellowship to promote leadership and social progress.
Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support
The AAUW International Fellowship provides generous financial assistance based on the applicant’s study level:
| Study Level | Award Amount |
|---|---|
| Master’s / First Professional Degree | $20,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | $25,000 |
| Postdoctoral Research | $50,000 |
These funds cover essential educational costs, including:
-
Tuition and fees
-
Living expenses
-
Travel and transportation
-
Books and research materials
Fields of Study
The fellowship accepts applicants from all academic fields, though preference is given to disciplines that empower women and girls or contribute to social progress.
Preferred Fields Include:
-
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
-
Education and Teaching
-
Public Health
-
Law and Human Rights
-
Gender and Women’s Studies
-
Policy and Development
Required Documents
Before applying, prepare the following documents (in English or translated):
-
Academic transcripts
-
Degree certificates
-
Proof of admission (if available)
-
Updated CV or Resume
-
Copy of valid passport
-
Three letters of recommendation (from professors or professionals)
Make sure your documents are clear, legible, and complete — incomplete or blurry submissions will not be accepted.
How to Apply for AAUW International Fellowship 2026
The entire process is online through the official AAUW application portal.
Step-by-Step Application Guide:
-
Create an account on the AAUW online application system.
-
Fill in your personal and academic details accurately.
-
Upload the required documents (transcripts, passport copy, etc.).
-
Write three short essays:
-
Personal Statement: Your motivation and goals.
-
Study/Research Proposal: Academic objectives and significance.
-
Community or Career Goals: How you’ll impact your country after completion.
-
-
Request three recommendation letters from academic or professional references.
-
Submit your application before November 15, 2025.
-
Recheck all sections — incomplete or late submissions will not be reviewed.
Tips for a Strong Application
-
⏰ Start early: Give yourself time to write compelling essays and collect documents.
-
Be authentic: Highlight real achievements and leadership roles.
-
Show impact: Explain how your education will help women and girls in your country.
-
Ask for quality recommendations: Choose professors or mentors who know your strengths.
-
Proofread: Eliminate grammar, spelling, or formatting errors before submitting.
Final Thoughts
The AAUW International Fellowship 2026 is more than just financial aid — it’s a life-changing platform for women determined to create social impact through education.
With full funding, global exposure, and mentorship, this fellowship empowers you to become a leader, innovator, and changemaker in your field.