If you’re a woman with a vision and a passport that doesn’t say “U.S. citizen,” this could be the moment that changes everything.

The AAUW (American Association of University Women) International Fellowships aren’t just another scholarship—they’re a legacy. Since way back in 1917, they’ve helped over 3,800 incredible women earn their graduate degrees, sharpen their research, and return home ready to spark real change in their communities. Think Nobel Prize winners, cabinet ministers, university leaders—yes, that kind of impact.

So if you’ve been searching for a fully funded chance to pursue your master’s or PhD in the United States—and make it count—this is it.

What’s In It for You? (At a Glance)

Degree	Stipend	Fellowship Term
Master’s	$20,000	July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
Doctorate	$25,000	July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027

The stipend is paid in two parts—half at the start, half halfway through the year. And if you’re a member of Graduate Women International (GWI), five extra awards are set aside just for women studying outside their home countries. That’s rare.

Why This Fellowship Actually Matters

There are hundreds of scholarships out there. But here’s why this one stands out:

Global respect: AAUW has funded some of the most influential women on the planet. This is a name that opens doors.
All disciplines welcome: Whether you’re studying aerospace or African literature, law or life sciences—if it’s accredited, you’re good.
Powerful networks: You’ll become part of AAUW’s massive 135,000-member community. Plus, 50+ GWI affiliates worldwide.
Purpose-driven: This isn’t just about your future. It’s about what you’ll give back—to women, to girls, to your community.

Do You Qualify? (Let’s Check)

You’re eligible if:

You identify as a woman (trans women included).
You hold a passport that’s not from the U.S. (no green card holders, sorry).
You’ve already earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree—with a GPA of at least 3.5 out of 4.0.
You’re starting your first master’s or PhD by September 1, 2026.
You’ll study full-time at a U.S. institution that’s accredited.
You plan to live in the U.S. (or your research location) the whole time.
You’re committed to going back home to put what you’ve learned into action—especially for the benefit of women and girls.

GWI members have one exception: they can study outside the U.S.

Important Dates & Deadlines

Application portal opens: August 1, 2025
Deadline to apply: September 30, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time — don’t push it to the last minute!)
Awards announced: April 15, 2026
First stipend sent: July–September 2026
Fellowship begins: July 1, 2026
Midyear report due: December 15, 2026
Second stipend sent: January 2027
Final report due: July 31, 2027

No late submissions. No exceptions. Set those reminders now.

What You’ll Need to Apply

Start gathering these early. Most incomplete applications are simply due to last-minute chaos.

a. Academic Proof

Degrees and diplomas (translated to English if needed)
Official transcripts
GPA evidence (3.5 minimum, converted using WES/ECE if needed)

b. Admission Letter

Proof that you’ve been accepted into your U.S. program (or other country if GWI member)

c. English Language Test (if needed)

If your last degree wasn’t taught in English, pick one of these:

TOEFL iBT: 79
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 120
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
Cambridge: 176

(Make sure scores are valid—nothing older than 2 years.)

d. Letters of Recommendation

Two of them. Recent. On official letterhead. Signed. Sent by your referees (not you).

e. ID & Membership (if applicable)

Passport photo page
GWI proof (only if applying to study outside the U.S.)

Check out: Why You Should Apply for Scholarships (Even If You Think You Can’t)

How They Choose Who Gets In

The people reviewing your application? Professors and experts from across disciplines. They’re looking for:

Academic brilliance (grades, awards, papers)
A solid, thoughtful research or study plan
Clear evidence you’re a leader and change-maker
A vision for how you’ll make a difference back home
Realistic budgeting (don’t just say “I’ll figure it out”)
Representation from underrepresented regions

Tips to Make Your Application Shine

Match Your Story to Their Mission
Don’t just say you want a degree. Say how it will help women. Use stats, cite challenges in your country, connect the dots.

Show What You’ve Already Done
Numbers impress. Say things like:

“Organized health education sessions for 300 rural women.”
“Developed app that connected 500+ girls to local STEM mentors.”

Have a Clear Plan

Master’s? Talk about courses, goals, projects.
PhD? Give them your research question, methods, and what you expect to publish.

Pick Recommenders Wisely
You want people who can vouch for your leadership and heart, not just your GPA.

Ace That English Test
If you’re unsure, retake it in early September. Better safe than sorry.

Check out: Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships 2025 for International Students (Must Apply)

Quick FAQ

Q: Can I apply for both master’s and PhD funding?
Nope. Choose one.

Q: Is it renewable?
Up to five master’s fellows can extend for a second year—if they keep a 3.5 GPA and apply for renewal by May 30, 2027.

Q: My grades are in percentages. Help!
Use WES or ECE to convert them to a 4.0 scale. Or get a registrar-issued conversion.

Application Roadmap

Here’s how to stay sane and organized:

July 2025 – Finalize your top U.S. universities
August 1 – Create your AAUW account as soon as the portal opens
August–mid September – Upload documents, take tests, chase recommenders
September 24 – Proofread everything
September 30 – Submit before noon. Seriously.
April 2026 – If you get in (fingers crossed!), start prepping for travel
July 2026 – Welcome to the U.S. Join orientation. Meet other amazing women.

Check out: Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students to Study in USA

Final Thoughts: This Could Be Your Moment

This fellowship isn’t just about the money. It’s about stepping into your power—surrounded by a global sisterhood of women who believe in lifting each other up.

Yes, it’s competitive. But if your dreams are big and your vision is clear, you absolutely have a shot.

So mark August 1, 2025, in bold on your calendar. Start organizing your paperwork. And remember—you’re not just applying for a scholarship. You’re applying to become the kind of leader your country needs.

Official Call:
AAUW International Fellowships Info

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AAUW International Fellowships 2025-26: Fully Funded Master’s & Doctoral Scholarships for Women in the USA