If you’re a woman dreaming of pursuing higher studies in the USA but worried about the expenses, this could be your golden chance.
The AAUW International Fellowships 2026 are here to turn aspirations into achievements. This prestigious program, offered by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), supports women from all around the globe (except the USA) to study at accredited US institutions.
Whether you want to earn a master’s, doctoral, or professional degree, or conduct postdoctoral research, this fellowship offers financial aid ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 per year. More than just funding, it’s an opportunity to gain a world-class education, expand your professional network, and return home ready to lead change in your community.
If you’re passionate about your academic field, committed to advancing opportunities for women and girls, and ready to take your career to the next level — here’s everything you need to know about this incredible program.
Interested candidates can apply for this AAUW International Fellowships 2026 before the deadline April 15, 2026.
In this article, we have explained every key details regarding the AAUW International Fellowships 2026.
About AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women is a leading US-based organization dedicated to advancing gender equality in education and the workplace. Through its International Fellowships program, AAUW provides women from outside the USA with the chance to pursue full-time graduate or postgraduate studies in the United States.
This fellowship is partially funded, meaning it covers a significant portion of your tuition, living costs, research expenses, childcare, and even travel. It also connects you with a global network of women leaders and change-makers.
Since its first award in 1917, the AAUW International Fellowship has empowered over 3,600 women from 150+ countries. Many recipients have gone on to become leaders in business, academia, politics, science, activism, and the arts.
Originally aimed at Latin American women, the program has grown to include applicants from around the world, with a strong emphasis on selecting women from developing or underrepresented backgrounds.
Quick Highlights – AAUW International Fellowships 2026
| Host Country | USA |
| Offered By | American Association of University Women (AAUW) |
| Program Duration | July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027 |
| Funding Type | Partially Funded |
| Eligible Levels | Master’s, Professional, Doctoral, Postdoctoral |
| Financial Coverage | $20,000 – $50,000 per year |
| Eligible Fields | All subjects offered by accredited US institutions |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2025 |
| Notification Date | April 15, 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the AAUW International Fellowships 2026, you must:
- Be a citizen of a country other than the USA, or hold a non-immigrant visa if living in the USA.
- Plan to study full-time during the fellowship year.
- Commit to returning to your home country after completion.
- Hold an academic degree equivalent to a US bachelor’s degree with minimum GPA 3.5/4.0.
- Be proficient in English (IELTS/TOEFL required).
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Be applying for:
- Master’s/Professional Degrees: JD, MFA, LLM, M.Arch, MD, DDS
- Doctoral Degrees: PhD, EdD
- Postdoctoral Research: Must hold doctorate or MFA as a research degree
- Be enrolled in a US-accredited institution during the fellowship year.
- Not be a previous AAUW fellowship recipient.
- Complete a full academic year (Sept 1, 2026 – April 30, 2027).
- Applicants from developing countries or underrepresented groups will receive special consideration.
Financial Benefits
- Master’s & First Professional Degree: $20,000
- Postdoctoral Research: $50,000
- Doctoral Studies: $25,000
- Funding covers:
- Tuition and educational expenses
- Living costs
- Dependent childcare
- Travel costs
- Access to global networking opportunities with other fellows.
Required Documents
- Letter of admission from US institution
- Proof of bachelor’s degree
- Three recommendation letters
- IELTS/TOEFL test results
- Updated CV/Resume
- Proof of highest degree earned
- Proof of current enrollment (if applicable)
- Proof of doctorate or MFA degree (postdoctoral only)
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How to Apply
- Visit the official AAUW Fellowship application page.
- Now Create an account and complete the eligibility quiz.
- After that Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your application by September 30, 2025.
- Await notification results on April 15, 2026.
FAQs
Can I apply if I’m already studying in the USA?
Yes, if you have a non-immigrant visa and meet all other eligibility requirements.
Is preference given to any specific applicants?
Yes, women from developing countries or underrepresented groups receive special consideration.
Do I need an admission letter before applying?
Yes, you must have already applied to a US institution before the fellowship application deadline.
Can I work while on this fellowship?
No, the fellowship requires full-time academic commitment and does not allow for part-time work.