Applications open on 17 August 2026 for the AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028. Women from around the world can receive funding to pursue master’s and doctoral STEM degrees in the United States and advance leadership in their home communities.
Overview
The AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028 provide an outstanding opportunity for women from around the world to pursue postgraduate education while building the knowledge and leadership skills needed to create positive change in their communities.
Established in 1917, the fellowship program supports women who are committed to academic excellence, leadership, and the empowerment of women and girls. The fellowships are specifically designed for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who plan to use their education to contribute to the development of their home countries or communities.
The program focuses primarily on STEM disciplines and supports women pursuing graduate studies in the United States at the master’s, doctoral, and professional doctoral levels.
About the AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) created the International Fellowships Program to promote educational access, gender equity, and leadership development for women worldwide.
For more than a century, the program has invested in talented women who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to improving opportunities for women and girls. The fellowship supports full-time postgraduate study and research, helping scholars gain advanced knowledge and professional expertise that can be applied to address challenges in their communities.
AAUW fellowships have supported thousands of women leaders, researchers, educators, scientists, policymakers, and innovators from diverse countries and backgrounds.
Benefits
The AAUW International Fellowships offer significant support to selected scholars.
Benefits may include:
- Financial support for master’s and doctoral studies.
- Funding for academic and professional development.
- Access to world-class universities and research institutions.
- Opportunity to study in the United States.
- Membership in a global network of AAUW fellows and alumni.
- Leadership development opportunities.
- International academic exposure.
- Enhanced career prospects and research opportunities.
- Support for women advancing STEM education and innovation.
- Recognition from one of the world’s leading organizations supporting women in education.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet AAUW’s eligibility requirements.
Eligible candidates generally include:
- Women applicants only.
- Non-U.S. citizens and non-U.S. permanent residents.
- Applicants pursuing full-time postgraduate study.
- Candidates applying for master’s degree programs.
- Candidates applying for academic doctoral degree programs.
- Candidates applying for professional doctoral degree programs.
- Individuals with a strong academic record.
- Applicants who demonstrate leadership potential.
- Women committed to empowering women and girls.
- Candidates intending to apply their skills and expertise to benefit their home countries or communities.
Eligible Fields of Study
The fellowship primarily supports STEM disciplines, including:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Additional STEM-related programs may also qualify if recognized under the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List.
Application Process
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
- Identify an eligible master’s or doctoral STEM program.
- Gather all required supporting documents.
- Create an account on the AAUW application portal.
- Complete the online fellowship application.
- Submit all supporting materials before the deadline.
- Monitor application updates and communications from AAUW.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin the application process early to avoid last-minute challenges.
Required Documents
Applicants may be required to submit:
- Completed online application form.
- Academic transcripts.
- Degree certificates.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé.
- Personal statement.
- Study or research proposal.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Proof of citizenship.
- Additional supporting documents requested by AAUW.
Applicants should consult the official fellowship guidelines for the complete documentation requirements.
Application Deadline
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 17 August 2026 |
| Applications Close | 17 September 2026 |
| Award Notifications | March 2027 |
| First Stipend Dispersed | July – September 2027 |
| Mid-Year Report Due | December 2027 |
| Second Stipend Dispersed | December 2027 / January 2028 |
| Final Report Due | 31 July 2028 |
Applicants should note that all deadlines follow Eastern Time (ET).
Summary Table
| Opportunity | Details |
| Fellowship Name | AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028 |
| Host Organization | American Association of University Women (AAUW) |
| Study Destination | United States |
| Eligible Applicants | Women who are non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents |
| Study Level | Master’s and Doctoral Degrees |
| Field of Study | STEM Disciplines |
| Funding Type | Fellowship Funding |
| Applications Open | 17 August 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 17 September 2026 |
| Award Notification | March 2027 |
Conclusion
The AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028 offer an exceptional opportunity for women pursuing advanced STEM education to gain world-class academic experience in the United States. Beyond financial support, the fellowship empowers women leaders who are committed to driving positive change, advancing innovation, and creating opportunities for future generations.
Women with strong academic backgrounds, leadership potential, and a commitment to empowering others should begin preparing their applications ahead of the September 2026 deadline.
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