AAUW International Fellowships 2026-2027: $20,000–$25,000 for Women in STEM Graduate Studies
Job Description
AAUW International Fellowships 2026–2027: Fully Funded Opportunity for Women in STEM
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been empowering women through education since 1881. One of its most prestigious programs, the International Fellowships, has supported international women pursuing full-time postgraduate studies in the United States since 1917.
For the 2026–2027 cycle, AAUW is offering generous fellowships to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who plan to pursue their first master’s or doctoral degree in STEM fields, with the goal of returning to serve their home countries and communities.
Stipends are paid directly to the fellow in two equal installments (beginning and midpoint of the fellowship term).
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following key criteria:
- Identify as a woman
- Be a non-U.S. citizen and not hold (or be applying for) U.S. permanent residency
- Be admitted to or enrolled in their first master’s or academic/professional doctoral degree at the time of application
- Pursue a degree in a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, or Medicine)
- Hold at least one academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
- Begin the program on or before September 15, 2027, and complete it on or after April 30, 2028
- Study full-time at a U.S. institution accredited by the U.S. Department of Education (limited awards available for study in other countries)
Preferred candidates demonstrate academic excellence and a clear commitment to empowering women and girls in their home countries or communities.
Award Amounts
- Master’s / Professional Degree: $20,000
- Doctoral Degree: $25,000
Eligible Fields of Study
Fellowships support master’s and doctoral programs in STEM disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine
AAUW uses the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List to determine eligibility. If your program is not clearly listed, check that list carefully.
Important Timeline (2026–2027 Cycle)
- Applications Open: August 17, 2026 (9:00 a.m. ET)
- Applications Close: September 17, 2026 (5:00 p.m. ET)
- Award Notification: March 2027
- First Stipend: July – September 2027
- Mid-Year Report: December 2027
- Second Stipend: December 2027 / January 2028
- Final Report: July 31, 2028
Why This Fellowship Matters
For more than a century, AAUW International Fellowships have helped talented women from around the world gain advanced STEM education and return home to create lasting impact. The program values both academic excellence and a demonstrated commitment to advancing equity for women and girls.
The historical profile of country representation shows AAUW’s ongoing effort to support scholars from a wide range of nations, including those that have been underrepresented in previous award years.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the official AAUW application portal. This is a highly competitive opportunity. Prepare strong recommendation letters, a clear statement of purpose linking your studies to impact in your home community, and accurate academic documentation.
- Official Page
- Deadline: September 17, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time
You may also be eligible:
DSU Toscana Scholarship in Pisa 2026/2027 – FULLY FUNDED
UniSQ International Student Support Scholarship 2027
Mundus MAPP FULLY FUNDED Scholarship 2027–2029
