American Association of University Women, International Fellowships

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships program is a prestigious initiative dedicated to empowering women through education. Since 1888, AAUW has been one of the largest funders of women’s graduate education, investing in women who go on to change the world. These fellowships are specifically designed for women who are non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with a track record of academic excellence and a commitment to empowering other women and girls.

If you are a high-achieving woman from outside the U.S. aiming to pursue a full-time master's or doctoral degree at an accredited American institution, this fellowship provides significant financial support to help you achieve your academic and professional goals. For the 2025–2026 fellowship year, the application window is open from August 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025. This guide will walk you through the eligibility criteria, application process, funding details, and key deadlines to prepare you for this incredible opportunity to advance your studies in the United States.

The fellowship is applicable to any full-time master’s or doctoral programme at an accredited U.S. institution for international women students. The program offers incredible flexibility, allowing you to choose from thousands of courses across the United States.

AAUW International Fellowships Awards

The AAUW International Fellowships program is a significant funding opportunity for international women to pursue full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the United States. It provides the chance to gain a world-class education at any accredited U.S. university, fostering both academic and professional growth.

The fellowship provides a substantial stipend to help cover academic and living expenses, allowing you to focus on your studies.

The support includes:

• A one-year stipend of $20,000 for Master's degree students.
• A one-year stipend of $25,000 for Doctoral degree students.
• Stipends are disbursed in two equal payments at the beginning and the midpoint of the fellowship term.

AAUW International Fellowships Amount

The AAUW awards a fellowship stipend of $20,000 (Master's) or $25,000 (Doctorate). This financial support is provided for the fellowship year.

AAUW International Fellowships Benefits

Beyond the financial stipend, an AAUW International Fellowship offers prestigious professional advantages and lifelong membership to a powerful community.

You must be a woman who is a non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident. This is a mandatory requirement for all applicants. The criteria are strict and must be met fully.

Countries Eligible Under AAUW International Fellowships

The AAUW International Fellowships are available to women from all countries outside the United States. The program aims to build a global network of women leaders and scholars.

• Applicants must hold an academic degree (earned in the U.S. or abroad) equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
• Academic excellence, as demonstrated by academic records and achievements, recognition from peers, professors, and/or institutions, and other forms of distinction
• Demonstrated commitment to 1) applying their expertise, professional skills and leadership in the context of their home countries, and 2) supporting other women and girls through service in their communities and professions
• Clear and actionable study plans, the funding of those plans, and the proposed timeline for their completion
• Fellow’s position on return to home country
• Applicants hailing from countries that have a notably low presence among AAUW award recipients (Preferred)
• Applicants pursuing their first international academic experience (Preferred)
• Applicants residing in their home country at the time of application (Preferred)

The application process is completed online. It is highly competitive and involves a detailed assessment of your academic and professional merits.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you begin, carefully review all eligibility criteria on the official AAUW website. Ensure you meet the requirements for nationality, gender, academic history, and degree program.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Start gathering all required documents, including transcripts, proof of degree, and arranging for letters of recommendation. Ensure your English proficiency test scores are up to date if required.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application
AAUW is transitioning to a new awards management system. Once it is live, you will fill out the detailed online application form, which includes narrative sections, before the stated deadline.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents
Upload all the necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts, proof of degree, and recommendation letters, through the online portal.

Step 5: Submit and Await Assessment
After submitting your application by the deadline, it will be evaluated by the AAUW selection committee. This stage is highly competitive.

Step 6: Receive the Final Decision
All applicants will be notified of their outcome via email. The timeline for announcements is typically in the spring of the following year.

Step 7: Receive Your Fellowship
If successful, you will receive your official award letter and the first installment of your stipend.

Please note: The application process begins on August 1, 2025, but you have until September 30, 2025, to complete and submit your application.

Application Timeline for AAUW International Fellowships

The entire process from application to starting your studies is extensive. Adhering to the timeline is critical for success.

AAUW International Fellowships Interview

The AAUW International Fellowships selection process does not typically include an interview round. The selection is based solely on the merits of the written application and supporting documents. You will be notified of the final decision via email.

Documents Required

You need to prepare several documents for your application. These are crucial for the assessment. Start gathering them early.

• Proof of citizenship (e.g., passport copy).
• Academic transcripts and proof of degree(s).
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores).
• Letters of Recommendation (number to be confirmed in the new system).
• Proof of admission or enrollment in a U.S. accredited institution (if available at time of application).
• Proof of Graduate Women International membership (if studying outside your home country or the U.S.).

FAQs About American Association of University Women, International Fellowships

Who is eligible for the AAUW International Fellowship?

You must be a woman who is a non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident. You need a bachelor's degree equivalent with a minimum 3.5 GPA and be enrolled in a full-time master's or doctorate program in the U.S.

What does the AAUW International Fellowship cover?

It provides a stipend of $20,000 for master's students and $25,000 for doctoral students, disbursed in two installments to help cover educational and living expenses.

Can I apply without an admission offer?

You must be "admitted or enrolled" at the time of application. It is strongly recommended to have proof of admission or at least be far along in the application process to a U.S. university.

Do I need work experience for AAUW?

While not explicitly stated as a mandatory requirement like Chevening, the fellowship seeks women with a proven commitment to women and girls, which is often demonstrated through professional, community, or research experience.

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