The AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028 offer funding opportunities for women pursuing graduate or postgraduate study in the United States. Applications open on August 17, 2026, making this a valuable opportunity for eligible international students seeking financial support for their studies.
The AAUW International Fellowships program, administered by the American Association of University Women, supports women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing full-time graduate study (master’s or doctoral) in the United States. For the 2027–2028 cycle, the program prioritizes STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines, with the goal of equipping women to apply their expertise and leadership in service of their home countries and communities. A limited number of awards are also available for study outside the applicant’s home country.
AAUW International Fellowships Facts & Quick Verification Tracker
- Funder: American Association of University Women (AAUW)
- Award amounts: Master’s/first professional degree – $20,000; Doctoral – $25,000
- Focus: Primarily STEM fields for the current cycle
- Eligibility: Women who are non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents
- Applications open: 17 August 2026 (9:00 a.m. ET)
- Applications close: 17 September 2026 (5:00 p.m. ET)
- Award notification: March 2027
- Fellowship term: 2027–2028 academic year
- Official site: aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/aauw-international-fellowships/
AAUW International Fellowships Coverage & Requirements Matrix
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Award amount | $20,000 (Master’s/Professional); $25,000 (Doctoral) |
| Disbursement | Two equal payments (beginning and midpoint of the fellowship year) |
| Study location | Primarily U.S. institutions (limited awards for other countries) |
| Degree level | First master’s or academic/professional doctoral degree |
| Field focus | STEM disciplines (preferred/required in current cycle) |
| Citizenship | Non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident |
| GPA | Minimum 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (highest degree earned) |
| English proficiency | Required |
Official Source & Portal Verification
All information should be verified on the official AAUW page:
https://www.aauw.org/resources/programs/fellowships-grants/aauw-international-fellowships/
Applications are submitted exclusively through the AAUW Fellowships & Grants Application Portal.
The Step-by-Step Roadmap
- Confirm eligibility (citizenship, degree status, STEM field, GPA).
- Secure admission or enrollment in an eligible U.S. graduate program.
- Gather transcripts, proof of degree, English proficiency documentation, and recommendation letters.
- Create an account on the AAUW application portal when it opens on 17 August 2026.
- Complete and submit the full application by 17 September 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET.
- Await notification in March 2027.
- If awarded, begin the fellowship term in the 2027–2028 academic year and submit required progress reports.
Supporting Academic Collaboration
Fellows study at accredited U.S. institutions and are expected to apply their training upon return to their home countries. The program values applicants who demonstrate commitment to empowering women and girls through civic, community, or professional work.
Duration and Funding Opportunities
The fellowship covers one academic year (typically July 2027 – June 2028). Funding is provided as a stipend paid in two installments and may be used for educational and living expenses. It is not a full-cost scholarship covering all university fees.
Focus on Development Through Scientific Research
The 2027–2028 cycle emphasizes STEM fields so that women can develop advanced technical and research skills that address development needs in their home countries, particularly in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and related areas such as medicine.
Growing Importance of International Research Partnerships
By supporting international women to study in the U.S., the program fosters cross-border academic exchange and builds a network of women leaders who can strengthen research capacity and collaboration between the United States and their home countries.
Broader Fellowship Mission
Since 1917, AAUW International Fellowships have promoted education and equity for women worldwide. The program invests in women who will use their advanced education and leadership to advance opportunities for women and girls in their communities.
Research Expectations and Academic Responsibilities
Fellows must pursue full-time study, maintain satisfactory academic progress, and submit mid-year and final reports. They are expected to return to their home countries (or the communities in which they reside) to apply their expertise.
AAUW International Fellowships Overview and Academic Purpose
This is a competitive fellowship providing partial financial support for women pursuing their first master’s or doctoral degree in STEM fields in the United States, with the explicit aim of building leadership capacity for development in their home countries.
What This Fellowship Offers (The Advantage)
- Substantial stipend ($20,000–$25,000)
- Prestige of an AAUW award
- Opportunity to study at leading U.S. institutions
- Support for women committed to advancing gender equity
- Network of AAUW alumnae and international women leaders
Key Features of the Fellowship
- Open exclusively to women who are non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents
- Preference for STEM disciplines in the current cycle
- Focus on applicants who demonstrate commitment to women’s advancement
- One-year renewable funding structure (two payments)
- Long history (over a century) of supporting international women scholars
Eligible courses at AAUW International Fellowship
Master’s and academic or professional doctoral programs in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and related disciplines). Applicants should consult the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List if uncertain about eligibility of their specific program.
Who can Apply
Women (or those who identify as women) who are citizens of countries other than the United States, are not U.S. permanent residents, and are admitted to or enrolled in their first master’s or doctoral degree program in a STEM field at an accredited U.S. institution.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Identify as a woman
- Non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Hold a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (highest degree)
- Admitted to or enrolled in a first master’s or doctoral program
- Full-time study in the U.S. at an accredited institution
- Intent to return home and apply skills in service of home community
- English language proficiency
Study Period and funding
Study period: One academic year (2027–2028).
Funding: $20,000 (master’s/professional) or $25,000 (doctoral), paid in two equal installments.
Selection Process for AAUW International Fellowships
The AAUW International Fellowships are awarded through a competitive selection process. Applications are assessed by independent review panels, with final awards determined based on reviewer recommendations and the funding available for the relevant fiscal year.
Only complete applications that meet all eligibility requirements will be considered. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all information and supporting documents submitted are accurate, complete, and up to date.
How AAUW Reviews Applications
Before applications reach the fellowship review panel, AAUW’s Fellowships & Grants Team conducts an initial review to confirm that applications are complete and that applicants meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
Eligible applications are then evaluated by an independent panel of distinguished scholars and experts. The panel reviews applications according to AAUW’s established selection criteria and makes funding recommendations. Final award decisions are subject to approval by AAUW.
AAUW Fellowship Award Requirements
Applicants selected for an award must complete the full award acceptance process and submit all required documentation. An award is not considered final until AAUW has received, reviewed, and approved all required acceptance materials.
Changes to Your University or Field of Study
Applicants recommended for an award may be disqualified if their proposed field of study, program type, or host institution differs from the information provided in their original application.
Applicants affected by current U.S. travel restrictions who are unable to obtain the necessary U.S. student visa may be eligible to request a change in their country of study and host institution, subject to AAUW’s policies.
How AAUW Fellowships’ Funds Can Be Used
AAUW International Fellowship funds are intended to cover eligible expenses incurred during the official fellowship period. Depending on the award terms, eligible costs may include:
- Tuition and required academic fees
- Books, supplies, and other required course materials
- Housing and food
- Dependent care, including childcare
- Other approved educational and living expenses
Program Start and End Dates
Fellows are expected to begin or continue their academic programs by September 15, 2027, in the United States or approved country of study.
Fellows completing their programs during the award year must finish their studies no earlier than April 30, 2028. AAUW does not accommodate exceptions to these dates.
Visa Requirements
Obtaining the appropriate student visa and other required immigration documents is the sole responsibility of the fellowship recipient. Fellows must also comply with all applicable visa requirements, immigration regulations, and policies throughout their period of study.
What Past Winners & Student Forums Say
Past fellows frequently highlight the financial relief the stipend provides, the prestige of the AAUW name, and the value of joining a global network of women scholars. Many note that the application process is rigorous and that strong evidence of leadership and commitment to women’s advancement is essential for success.
About the University offering the Fellowships
The fellowship is not tied to a single university. It is awarded by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), a U.S.-based nonprofit organization founded in 1881. Fellows study at accredited institutions across the United States of their own choosing (subject to admission).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the fellowship fully funded?
No. It provides a fixed stipend that helps cover educational and living costs but does not necessarily cover full tuition or all expenses. - Can I apply if I am already enrolled?
Yes, provided you are in your first master’s or doctoral program and meet the timing requirements. - Are non-STEM fields eligible?
In the current cycle the primary focus is STEM; limited awards may exist for other fields or for study outside the U.S. under specific conditions (e.g., GWI members). - Do I need to return to my home country?
Yes. The program expects fellows to apply their training in their home countries or communities.
Current Application Deadlines:
- Applications open: 17 August 2026, 9:00 a.m. ET
- Applications close: 17 September 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET
- Award notification: March 2027
- Fellowship year: 2027–2028
Contact Information for Applicants
Primary contact: Through the official AAUW website and application portal.
General inquiries can be directed via the contact options listed on aauw.org.
How To Apply for AAUW International Fellowship
- Review the official eligibility criteria and application instructions on the AAUW website.
- Ensure you meet all requirements (citizenship, degree status, GPA, STEM field, English proficiency).
- Obtain admission or proof of enrollment in an eligible program.
- Create an account on the AAUW Fellowships & Grants Application Portal when it opens on 17 August 2026.
- Complete the online application and upload all required documents before 17 September 2026, 5:00 p.m. ET.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues.
If the online form cannot be used, contact the focal point for alternative submission arrangements. All materials must be received by the deadline. There is no application fee. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted. You can take a look at How to Verify Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Financial Aid Funding. You can also learn How to Avoid Scholarship Scams.
Finally, you can Apply for AAUW International Fellowships for leaders of tomorrow.
Concluding Remarks
The AAUW International Fellowships 2027–2028 offer valuable support for women from around the world pursuing advanced STEM degrees in the United States. With a clear focus on academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to advancing women and girls, the program continues its century-long mission of empowering international women scholars. Prospective applicants should prepare carefully, begin the process as soon as the portal opens on 17 August 2026, and consult the official AAUW website for the most accurate and complete information.