In 2025, the AAUW International Fellowship Program stands as a premier opportunity for women worldwide seeking to pursue full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States. This esteemed fellowship not only offers substantial financial support but also provides recipients with unparalleled access to leading institutions, distinguished faculty, and a global network of accomplished alumnae. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, this program is designed to empower women to become leaders in their respective fields and strong advocates for equity in their home countries.
Since its inception in 1917, the AAUW International Fellowship has been instrumental in advancing education and equity for women globally. In the 2025–2026 cycle, the program continues its legacy by offering comprehensive support to women committed to academic excellence and social impact.
About the Fellowship Program
Program Name
AAUW International Fellowship Program
Current Status
Active and accepting applications for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Scope & Objectives
The fellowship aims to:
- Support women pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States.
- Encourage recipients to apply their expertise to advance the status of women and girls in their home countries.
Program Duration
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Study Mode
Full-time, on-campus study at accredited U.S. institutions
Focus Areas
Open to all fields of study, with a particular emphasis on:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Public Health
- Human Rights
- Law
- Arts and Humanities
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the AAUW International Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- Hold an academic degree (earned in the United States or abroad) equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree, completed by the application deadline.
Work Experience
- There is no specific work experience requirement; however, demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to advancing women and girls are essential.
Age Limit
- There are no age restrictions.
Nationality
- Applicants must be citizens of a country other than the United States.
- U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or dual citizens with the U.S. are not eligible.
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is required.
- Applicants must submit one of the following:
- TOEFL or IELTS scores, or
- Transcripts from English-speaking institutions, or
- A written statement verifying English as the applicant’s native language.
Additional Requirements
- Applicants must intend to return to their home country to pursue a professional career upon completion of their studies.
- Applicants should plan to devote themselves full-time to the proposed academic plan during the fellowship year.
- Preference is given to those residing in their home country at the time of application.
Application Process
To apply for the AAUW International Fellowship, please follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Access the Application Portal: Visit the AAUW International Fellowships page and click on “Apply Now” to create an account with the International Scholarship & Tuition Services (ISTS).
- Complete the Application: Fill out the online application form, providing all required information and documents.
- Submit Before Deadline: Ensure all components of your application are submitted by November 15, 2024, by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
For technical assistance or inquiries:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (866) 795-4892
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: Detailing academic and professional experiences.
- Statement of Purpose: Outlining academic goals and your commitment to advancing women and girls.
- Two Recommendation Letters: From individuals familiar with your academic and professional qualifications.
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts confirming the conferral of your highest degree.
- Proof of Degree: A copy of the highest degree earned to date.
- Language Test Scores: TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable.
- Passport Copy: If required, to verify citizenship.
Note: AAUW does not accept references from dossier services, and standardized or form-letter recommendations are discouraged.
Focus Areas / Fields of Study
The AAUW International Fellowship supports a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. The program encourages applications from the following areas:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Social Sciences (e.g., Sociology, Political Science)
- Law and Public Policy
- Education and Teaching
- Public Health and Environmental Studies
- Business and Economics
- Arts and Humanities (e.g., Literature, History, Cultural Studies)
Interdisciplinary Projects Encouraged
Applications involving interdisciplinary approaches—particularly those addressing women’s empowerment, equity, or development in home countries—are highly valued. Projects that bridge scientific inquiry with social impact or that combine education with community engagement align well with AAUW’s mission.
Financial Benefits
The AAUW International Fellowship provides generous financial support:
Type of Support
- Tuition and Fees: Paid directly to the U.S. academic institution.
- Living Stipend: Covers housing, meals, and daily expenses.
- Research Support: For materials and project needs.
- Travel Assistance: Partial support for international travel to and from the United States.
- Health Insurance: Applicants are advised to obtain personal health insurance; it is not directly provided by AAUW.
Specific Funding Amounts (2025–2026)
- Master’s/Professional Degree: $20,000
- Doctoral/PhD Degree: $25,000
Note: Funds are disbursed in two equal installments—at the beginning and at the midpoint of the fellowship year.
Selection Process
The AAUW International Fellowship selection process is rigorous and is designed to identify candidates who exemplify academic excellence and leadership potential.
Evaluation Stages
- Pre-screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility compliance.
- Panel Review: Expert evaluators assess academic merit and the strength of the proposed study or research.
- Final Selection Committee: Shortlisted applicants are reviewed and ranked.
- Notification of Awards: Selected candidates are formally informed.
Key Assessment Criteria
- Academic Record: Evaluation of GPA (with a minimum requirement of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale) and academic achievements.
- Quality of Proposed Study or Research: Assessment of the feasibility, originality, and potential impact of the proposal.
- Leadership and Advocacy: Demonstrated commitment to women’s empowerment.
- Commitment to Home Country: A clear intention to return and contribute professionally after completing studies.
- Community Service: Involvement in mentorship, advocacy, or nonprofit work is highly regarded.
- Location Preference: Applicants residing in their home country are prioritized.
Key Application Deadlines
For the 2025–2026 fellowship cycle, the important dates are as follows:
- Application Open Date: August 1, 2024
- Final Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 (11:59 PM PST)
- Supporting Documents Deadline: November 15, 2024
- Panel Review Period: December 2024 – March 2025
- Notification of Results: Approximately April 15, 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: July 1, 2025
Tip: Prepare well in advance as uploading and confirming documents may take longer than expected.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
To boost your chances of success, consider the following expert-backed suggestions:
- Craft a Compelling Statement of Purpose
- Clearly explain how your academic pursuits align with AAUW’s mission.
- Articulate your future vision and explain how your education will empower women in your home country.
- Highlight relevant past leadership experiences, community service, or advocacy related to gender issues.
- Build a Professional CV
- Clearly present your academic achievements, publications (if applicable), volunteer work, and relevant skills.
- Use bullet points and action verbs to enhance clarity and readability.
- Choose Strong Referees
- Select recommenders who are well acquainted with your academic potential and personal character.
- Provide them with a summary of your goals and a clear understanding of AAUW’s values to guide their recommendation.
Contact Information
For questions or technical assistance, please use the following contact details:
- Program Coordinator: Not publicly listed; please use the following contact information.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone (U.S. Toll-Free): +1 (866) 795-4892
Conclusion
The AAUW International Fellowship 2025–2026 is a life-changing opportunity for women around the globe to advance their education, leadership, and social impact. Whether you are pursuing a master’s degree in engineering or a Ph.D. in social justice, this fully funded fellowship can open doors to prestigious U.S. institutions, provide global recognition, and connect you with a powerful network of alumnae.
Start your application today and join a legacy of women scholars who are transforming their communities and the world.
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program Name | AAUW International Fellowship Program |
Host Country / Region | |
Funded By | American Association of University Women (AAUW) |
Eligibility | Women who are non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the U.S. |
Financial Support | Tuition, stipend ($20K–$25K), travel, research, and living expenses |
Fields of Study | STEM, Social Sciences, Public Health, Law, Education, Arts, Interdisciplinary |
Application Deadline | November 15, 2024 |
Official Website | Apply on AAUW.org |
Citations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The AAUW International Fellowship Program offers financial support to non-U.S. women pursuing full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the United States. Established in 1917, it aims to empower women through education.
Applicants must be non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents, identify as women, hold a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a U.S. degree, and plan full-time study at an accredited U.S. institution during the fellowship year
For the 2025–2026 cycle, the fellowship awards $20,000 for master’s or professional degrees and $25,000 for doctoral degrees. Funds cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and research costs.
Applications open on August 1, 2024, and close on November 15, 2024, by 11:59 PM Pacific Standard Time. Notifications are sent by April 15, 2025, and the fellowship year begins on July 1, 2025.
Yes, applicants must have applied to their proposed institution by the AAUW application deadline. However, acceptance is not required at the time of application; official confirmation is needed upon award acceptance.
No, the AAUW International Fellowship supports traditional, full-time, on-campus study at U.S. institutions. Distance-learning or online programs are not eligible for funding.
