Women from around the world pursuing advanced studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields can now apply for the AAUW International Fellowships 2027 in the United States.
The prestigious fellowship programme, offered by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), supports international women scholars pursuing full-time master’s, academic doctoral, and professional doctoral degree programmes in STEM disciplines at accredited institutions.
The programme aims to advance education, equity, and leadership by investing in women who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to empowering women and girls in their communities and home countries.
Applications open on 17 August 2026 and close on 17 September 2026 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).
About AAUW International Fellowships
The AAUW International Fellowships programme has been supporting women scholars since 1917, making it one of the longest-running international education funding programmes dedicated to women.
The fellowship provides financial support to women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in STEM fields.
Through this programme, AAUW invests in women who use education, research, and professional expertise to create positive change in their communities and contribute to global development.
The fellowship supports applicants who demonstrate:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to advancing women and girls
- Professional achievement
- Community impact
Fields of Study Covered
AAUW International Fellowships are available for postgraduate studies in STEM-related disciplines.
Eligible fields include:
Science
Applicants pursuing graduate programmes in scientific disciplines may apply.
Technology
The fellowship supports women developing expertise in technology-related fields.
Engineering
Women studying engineering disciplines are eligible to apply.
Mathematics
Applicants pursuing advanced mathematics programmes may qualify.
Medicine
Selected medical and health-related STEM programmes may also be considered.
Applicants unsure whether their degree programme qualifies as STEM can consult the official STEM classification guidelines used by AAUW.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is designed specifically for women from outside the United States.
Eligible applicants must:
- Be women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Plan to pursue full-time postgraduate study
- Apply for a STEM-related master’s or doctoral programme
- Demonstrate academic excellence
- Show commitment to supporting women and girls
- Intend to use their education and expertise to benefit their communities
A limited number of awards may also be available for study in countries other than the applicant’s home country.
Degree Levels Supported
AAUW International Fellowships support:
Master’s Degree Programmes
Women pursuing advanced STEM master’s programmes in the United States may apply.
Academic Doctoral Programmes
The fellowship supports women conducting doctoral-level research and advanced study.
Professional Doctoral Programmes
Women pursuing professional doctoral qualifications in STEM-related fields may also be considered.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants receive financial support to help cover postgraduate study expenses.
The award provides funding support for:
- Graduate education expenses
- Research and academic development
- Professional growth opportunities
- International academic experience
The fellowship enables talented women scholars to focus on their studies while developing expertise that can contribute to innovation and community development.
Selection Criteria
AAUW evaluates applications based on several factors, including:
Academic Excellence
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic achievement and preparation for graduate-level study.
Commitment to Women and Girls
Candidates should show evidence of efforts to support and empower women and girls.
Leadership Potential
Applicants should demonstrate leadership skills and the ability to create positive change.
Professional and Community Impact
AAUW seeks candidates who plan to use their education and expertise to address challenges in their communities and countries.
Application Timeline
Applicants should begin preparing early to ensure all required materials are submitted before the deadline.
Applications Open
17 August 2026
9:00 AM Eastern Time (ET)
Applications Close
17 September 2026
5:00 PM Eastern Time (ET)
Award Notification
March 2027
First Stipend Disbursed
July – September 2027
Mid-Year Report Due
December 2027
Second Stipend Disbursed
December 2027 / January 2028
Final Report Due
31 July 2028
Required Application Materials
Applicants should prepare all required documents before accessing the online application portal.
Typical application materials include:
- Academic records
- Personal statements
- Research or study plans
- References
- Proof of eligibility
- Evidence of leadership and community involvement
Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin their applications early because completing a competitive fellowship application requires careful preparation.
Why Apply for the AAUW International Fellowship?
The AAUW International Fellowship provides more than financial support. It creates opportunities for women researchers, scientists, engineers, and innovators to develop their expertise and expand their global impact.
Benefits include:
- Access to world-class graduate education
- Support for women in STEM
- International academic networks
- Leadership development
- Opportunities to contribute to social and economic progress
- Recognition from one of the world’s leading women’s education organisations
Graduates of the programme become part of a global network of women leaders driving innovation and change.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official AAUW International Fellowship application portal once applications open.
Applicants should carefully review eligibility requirements, prepare supporting documents, and submit their completed applications before:
17 September 2026 at 5:00 PM ET
Opportunity Summary
Organisation: American Association of University Women (AAUW)
Programme: International Fellowships 2027
Study Location: United States and selected international locations
Eligible Applicants: International women students
Degree Levels:
- Master’s Degree
- Academic Doctoral Degree
- Professional Doctoral Degree
Fields:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine
Funding Type: Fellowship Support
Applications Open: 17 August 2026
Application Deadline: 17 September 2026
Award Announcement: March 2027
