American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Fellowships has been an important advocate for women in education and leadership for over a century. Founded in 1888, this pioneering organization has committed millions of dollars to scholarships, fellowships, and grants, thereby helping thousands of women break barriers toward attaining a higher education.
Ambitious women coming to the mainland U.S. to pursue higher education could use the AAUW International Fellowships as leverage for their success stories. This guide tells you everything you need to know about AAUW International Fellowships eligibility and application tips so you can start planning for your future.
Why AAUW Matters: A Legacy of Impact
The AAUW is not just a scholarship provider; it is a movement. Here are some distinguishing features:
- More than $135 million on fellowships and grants awarded since 1888
- Scholars supported throughout 50 states and 150+ countries, 13,000 strong
- Exclusively for women so they alone may have the resources to lead
Numbers like these indicate AAUW’s steadfast commitment to gender equity in education. Whether you aspire to attain a master’s, a doctorate, or the last stage of professional degree, this fellowship can be the turning point.
What is the AAUW International Fellowship?
While many people refer to scholarships, the AAUW takes pride in referring to its funds as fellowships and grants. International Fellowships are awarded specifically to non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents for the purpose of pursuing full-time study in the United States.
Award Details
- $20,000 for master’s or professional degrees (e.g., J.D., M.D., M.F.A.).
- $25,000 for Ph.D. or Ed.D. candidates.
- Funds are disbursed in two installments (beginning and midpoint of the fellowship year).
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
Before applying, make sure you meet all of these requirements:
- You identify as a woman.
- You’re pursuing your first master’s, professional, or doctoral degree.
- You hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a minimum 3.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- You plan to study full-time at a U.S. accredited institution.
- You’re not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- If studying outside your home country, you must be a member of Graduate Women International (GWI).
Note: Postdoctoral researchers should explore AAUW’s International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships instead.
AAUW International Fellowships Dates & Deadlines
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | September 16, 2024 |
| Application Deadline | November 22, 2024 |
| Award Notifications | April 15, 2025 |
| Fellowship Term | July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 |
| First Stipend Disbursement | July-September 2025 |
| Second Stipend Disbursement | January 2026 |
Mark your calendar! Late submissions won’t be considered.
How to Apply AAUW International Fellowships (Step-by-Step)
AAUW uses the International Scholarship & Tuition Services (ISTS) portal for applications. Follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet all requirements.
- Create an ISTS Account – Use the program key: AAUW-IF.
- Complete the Application – Follow the Applicant Guide carefully.
- Submit Required Documents (see below).
Need help? Contact AAUW@applyists.com or call (866) 795-4892.
Required Documents
- Two recommendation letters (from professors or employers).
- Proof of highest degree earned (with certified translations if needed).
- Official transcripts (showing GPA, coursework, and degree confirmation).
- English proficiency proof (TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge scores).
- GWI membership proof (if studying outside your home country).
Selection Process: How Winners Are Chosen
AAUW’s selection is highly competitive. Here’s how it works:
- Initial Screening – AAUW checks for eligibility and completeness.
- Expert Review – Panels of scholars evaluate applications.
- Final Approval – AAUW’s Fellowships & Grants Team makes the last call.
What are they looking for?
- Academic excellence
- Leadership potential
- Clear career goals
- Commitment to women’s empowerment