AAUW International Fellowship Program 2027 in the USA
For women pursuing advanced academic degrees, securing funding for international graduate study is often one of the most demanding hurdles. The AAUW International Fellowship Program 2027 provides dedicated financial support for non-U.S. women who are admitted to full-time master’s, professional, or doctoral programs in the United States. Sponsored by the American Association of University Women (AAUW)—an organization advancing gender equity through education and advocacy since 1881—this initiative focuses on economic empowerment through higher education.
The fellowship supports outstanding scholars committed to advancing the status of women and girls globally. Applications are open to international applicants worldwide, with select fellowships also available for Graduate Women International (GWI) members seeking degrees outside their home countries.
AAUW International Fellowship 2027: Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Program Specification |
|---|---|
| Awarding Organization | American Association of University Women (AAUW) |
| Host Country | United States (or accredited international institution for GWI members) |
| Degree Levels | Master’s, First Professional Degrees, and Doctoral Degrees |
| Fellowship Coverage | $20,000 (Master’s/Professional) | $25,000 (Doctoral) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All Non-U.S. Nationalities |
| Application Fee | None ($0) |
| Application Deadline | September 17, 2026 |
| Fellowship Tenure Begins | July 2027 |
Financial Support and Allowable Expenses
The AAUW International Fellowship provides direct grant awards designed to offset the substantial costs associated with graduate and professional education:
- Master’s and First Professional Degree Candidates: $20,000 stipend.
- Doctoral Degree Candidates: $25,000 stipend.
- Second-Year Renewal: Up to five Master’s or first professional degree recipients enrolled in two-year programs may receive a second year of funding based on exceptional first-year academic performance.
Recipients may allocate fellowship funds toward essential educational costs, living expenses, dependent childcare, and up to 10% of the total award toward participating in professional meetings, conferences, or academic seminars.
Eligible Degree Programs
The fellowship is structured around specific academic categories:
- Master’s & First Professional Degrees: Supports professional terminal degrees such as J.D., M.F.A., L.L.M., M.Arch., and medical qualifications including M.D. and D.D.S. (Undergraduate, associate degrees, and certificates are ineligible).
- Doctoral Fellowships: Designed specifically for research doctorates, including Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To qualify for the 2027 competition, candidates must satisfy the following prerequisites:
- Gender Requirement: Applicants must identify as women.
- Citizenship: Must hold citizenship in a country other than the United States, or possess non-immigrant visa status if residing in the U.S.
- Academic Benchmark: Must hold an undergraduate degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree, with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Enrollment Status: Must be admitted to or currently enrolled in a full-time degree program at an accredited U.S. higher education institution by the time the fellowship term begins.
- Alternative Host Option: Women studying in a country other than the U.S. or their home country must hold active membership in Graduate Women International (GWI) and attend an institution eligible for federal student aid.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must assemble and upload the following documentation via the official portal:
- Completed online application form.
- Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Proof of highest degree earned with an official GPA calculation sheet.
- Certified English translations for any documents issued in other languages.
- Official proof of admission or current full-time enrollment.
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- Statement of motivation and career objectives.
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV) or academic resume.
- Valid passport or national identification document.
- Proof of GWI membership and documentation of legal name change (if applicable).
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
- Access the official AAUW application portal before the September 17, 2026 cutoff.
- Create an applicant profile and select the appropriate fellowship tier (Master’s or Doctoral).
- Enter academic records and request referee recommendations through the system.
- Upload all certified transcripts, translations, and personal statements.
- Review the complete submission packet for accuracy and submit without an application fee.
Apply via Official AAUW Fellowship Portal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an application fee for the AAUW International Fellowship?
No. AAUW does not charge any application fee for the International Fellowship Program.
Can undergraduate students apply?
No. The program is strictly reserved for master’s, first professional degree, and doctoral level candidates.
What is the minimum GPA required?
Applicants must have achieved at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in their highest completed degree.
Can fellowship funds be used for childcare?
Yes. Allowable expenses include living costs, tuition/fees, dependent childcare, and up to 10% for academic conferences.
What is the submission deadline?
The application deadline is September 17, 2026.