AAUW International Fellowships 2025/26 – Scholarships for Women from Around the World
The AAUW International Fellowships 2025/26 offer life-chausa asdfafnging opportunities for non-U.S. women scholars—including applicants from all Arab countries—to pursue full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States. With stipends ranging from $20,000 to $50,000, this distinguished program supports tuition, living expenses, childcare, and more.
Since 1917, AAUW has funded women’s academic progress through their international fellowship programs. As the oldest organization of its kind in the U.S., AAUW continues to champion gender equity and leadership development globally.
If you hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), have a minimum 3.5 GPA, and plan to begin your first graduate or postdoctoral program by Sept 1, 2026, then this fellowship may be the perfect match.
About AAUW & Legacy of Equity
Founded in 1881, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has consistently advocated for women’s educational empowerment through research, advocacy, and funding. The International Fellowships are pivotal in AAUW’s commitment to removing barriers for women worldwide. These fellowships back trailblazing scholars who aspire to lead, teach, or contribute to societal progress in their home countries after study in the U.S.
Fellowship Benefits & Award Values
Master’s Degree: $20,000 stipend
Doctoral Degree: $25,000 stipend
Postdoctoral Research: $50,000 stipend
Strong emphasis on natural and physical sciences
Stipends are split in two equal payments—at the start and mid-point of the fellowship year. Funds may be used to cover:
Tuition, fees, and required course expenses
Living, housing, food, and childcare costs
Research materials, travel, and academic resources
Postdoctoral applicants in funded fields are strongly encouraged to apply. Up to five awards are reserved for Graduate Women International (GWI) members studying outside the U.S.
Eligibility Requirements
✅Must Meet These Criteria:
Identify as a woman
Non-U.S. citizen/permanent resident
Hold first-time pursuit of a Master’s, Doctoral, or Postdoctoral study in the U.S. (on a full-time basis)
Enrollment between September 1, 2026 and completion after April 30, 2027
Bachelor’s degree equivalent, CGPA ≥ 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
Study at a U.S. Department of Education–accredited institution
🌟 Special Conditions
GWI members studying outside the U.S. may apply (up to 5 awards)
Fellows must return to home countries after research and apply expertise there
❌ Ineligible Applicants
U.S. citizens or permanent residents
AAUW Board, staff, committee members, or their families
Past AAUW International Fellowship recipients
Applicants applying for multiple degree levels or fields simultaneously
📅 Application Timeline
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Closes | September 30, 2025 (strict deadline) |
| Awards Announced | April 15, 2026 |
| Fellowship Year | July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 |
| Interim Report | December 15, 2026 |
| Second Payment | January 2027 |
| Grant Impact Report Due | July 31, 2027 |
Important: Applications submitted late or with missing documents will not be reviewed.
Application Requirements
Latest Academic transcripts, diplomas, and a letter if required for explaining any CGPA conversion
Proof of English proficiency: TOEFL iBT ≥79, IELTS ≥6.5, Cambridge ≥176, TOEFL Essentials ≥8.5, or Duolingo ≥120; or academic record in English
Proof of acceptance: Admission letter or enrollment confirmation
Two recommendation letters (from professors or professional mentors)
If applying for study outside the U.S. as a GWI member: proof of membership
Clear statement covering your future study plan, research proposal, and career vision
Return home country commitment: Clear Intention to return after fellowship and your future plans in home town
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated on:
Academic Excellence: GPA, awards, research
Leadership & Service: Impact in community and empowerment of women
Feasibility & Planning: Structured study/research plan with budget and timeline
Future Impact: Plans to apply learnings at home and empower others
First-time Study: Preference for previously non-international scholars and underrepresented countries
Expert panels in Arts & Humanities, STEM, and Social Sciences review submissions. Only complete applications move forward.
Expert Tips for a Strong Application
Tip #1: Tie your study goals to clear impact
Show how your program will help solve a problem or bridge a gap in your home country. Give concrete examples.
Tip #2: Highlight your leadership and community work
AAUW values women who support other women or communities—mention mentorship, volunteering, or advocacy roles.
Tip #3: Secure strong and informed recommendations
Choose referees who know your academic work and social contributions. Provide them clear instructions and deadlines.
Tip #4: Plan finances carefully
Come with a reasonable budget. The stipend covers key expenses but may not cover everything—anticipate gaps and solutions.
Tip #5: Emphasize your study timeline
Be precise about coursework, milestones, thesis work, conferences, and reporting.
FAQs (5 Key Questions)
1. Am I eligible if I already hold a master’s degree?
No, only first-time Master’s applicants are eligible. Doctoral and Postdoctoral fellowships go to those pursuing their first doctoral or postdoctoral experience.
2. Can I apply for both Master’s and Doctoral simultaneously?
No. You must choose one level and one field only.
3. What countries are preferred?
There are preferences for those from under-represented countries and first-time international scholars, but all non-U.S. females are eligible.
4. Are J‑1 visa waivers or sponsorship provided?
No, AAUW does not provide visa sponsorship or waiver assistance. Award letters may be used in your visa application process.
5. What if my CGPA uses a non-4.0 scale?
Provide an official conversion by a recognized service or validated by your institution. No automatic conversions.
Other Scholarships in USA
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The AAUW International Fellowships 2025/26 are unprecedented opportunities for ambitious women scholars to pursue academic excellence, develop leadership, and create lasting impact in their home countries. With generous stipends, a demanding selection process, and a rich legacy behind them, these fellowships empower women to shape global change.
🔔 Mark your calendar: Applications open on August 1, 2025 and close on September 30, 2025.
