AAUW’s International Fellowships promote education and equity for women by investing in international applicants who will be pursuing postdoctoral research in the U.S., with the intention of applying their expertise, professional skills, and leadership in the context of their home countries.
Application Deadline:
- Closes: September 17, 2026 (5:00 PM ET)
Tell Me About The Award:
The AAUW International Fellowships promote education and equity for women by supporting non‑U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies in STEM disciplines in the United States. Since 1917, the program has empowered international women to advance their expertise and leadership, with the expectation that fellows will apply their skills in service to their home countries or communities.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Life & Biological Sciences (Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience, Biotechnology, etc.)
- Physical Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Materials Science, etc.)
- Earth & Environmental Sciences (Geology, Climatology, Oceanography, Sustainability, etc.)
- Health & Medical Sciences (Biomedical Science, Epidemiology, Public Health, Pharmacology, etc.)
- Technology & Computer Sciences (AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Robotics, etc.)
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, Environmental, Biomedical, etc.)
- Mathematics & Statistics (Applied Math, Biostatistics, Operations Research, Econometrics, etc.)
Type:
- International Fellowship | Graduate (Master’s & Doctoral) | STEM | Women
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Identify as women.
- Be non‑U.S. citizens and not hold U.S. permanent residency.
- Be admitted/enrolled in their first Master’s or Doctoral program in STEM.
- Begin program by Sept 15, 2027 and complete on/after April 30, 2028.
- Hold at least one degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s.
- Have a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 in their highest degree.
- Pursue full‑time study at a U.S. accredited institution.
- Provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, Duolingo, or transcript from English‑speaking institution).
How are Applicants Selected?
- Competitive review by independent panels of distinguished scholars in STEM.
- Evaluation based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to equity.
- Consideration of recommendations, transcripts, GPA, and personal statement.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries except the U.S.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Accredited universities in the United States.
- Limited awards available for study in other countries (via Graduate Women International membership).
How Many Awards?
- Multiple fellowships awarded annually, subject to available funds.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Master’s Fellowship: $20,000 stipend.
- Doctoral Fellowship: $25,000 stipend.
- Disbursed in two equal payments (start & midpoint).
- Funds cover tuition, fees, books, living expenses, and dependent care.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- One academic year (renewable up to 3 years depending on program length).
How to Apply:
- Create an account on the AAUW Fellowships & Grants Application Portal.
- Submit narrative application + required documents:
- Two recommendation letters.
- Proof of degree(s) and transcripts.
- GPA calculation (3.5/4.0 minimum).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Admission/enrollment letter.
- GWI membership (if studying outside U.S.).
- Ensure all documents are translated into English (certified translations required).
- Submit before Sept 17, 2026 (ET).
