Calling all Non-US Women Scholars! Apply for the 2026-2027 American Association of University Women (AAUW) International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
AAUW International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
Empowering Global Women in Science Through Research in the U.S.
Overview
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships to support non-U.S. women scholars undertaking postdoctoral research in the United States. These fellowships aim to promote equity and educational advancement by enabling women to pursue high-impact research and return to apply their expertise and leadership in their home countries.
The program also provides up to five awards annually through Graduate Women International (GWI) for members conducting research outside their own countries, excluding the U.S.
Founded in 1917, this initiative continues to strengthen global academic collaboration and support women in STEM and related fields.
Fellowship Details
- Stipend: $50,000 USD, disbursed in two equal payments—at the beginning and midpoint of the fellowship term.
- Duration: 12 months (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027)
- Fields of Study Include:
Agriculture, Architecture, Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Geology, Health & Medicine, Mathematics/Statistics, Materials Science, Physics, Psychology/Psychiatry, Technology & Computer Science, and Zoology.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following conditions:
- Gender Identity: Identify as a woman.
- Citizenship: Must be a non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Academic Credentials: Hold an academic/professional doctoral degree (e.g., Ph.D., M.D., Ed.D., J.D., D.B.A.) with a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Timing: Must be admitted to their first postdoctoral research experience by the application deadline and begin by September 1, 2026.
- Research Location:
- Must conduct research at a U.S. institution accredited by the U.S. Department of Education.
- GWI members may conduct research in countries other than their own, provided the host institution is listed on the U.S. Federal Student Aid Participating Schools list.
- Residency: Must reside in the U.S. (or host country if GWI) during the fellowship.
Ineligible Applicants Include:
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Those not paying international student tuition.
- Past recipients of most AAUW fellowships or grants (except Community Action Grants).
- AAUW board members, staff, panelists, and their immediate family.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence and strength of the research proposal.
- Originality and contribution to the field.
- Demonstrated commitment to women and girls in applicants’ home countries.
- Research feasibility, including timeline and funding strategy.
- Likelihood of impact upon returning home.
- Preference is given to:
- Applicants from underrepresented countries in past AAUW cycles.
- Those pursuing their first international research experience.
- Applicants currently residing in their home countries.
Timeline
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Period Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2025 |
| Award Notification | April 15, 2026 |
| Fellowship Start Period | July–September 2026 |
| Interim Report Due | December 15, 2026 |
| Second Stipend Disbursed | January 2027 |
| Fellowship End Date | June 30, 2027 |
| Final Report Due | July 31, 2027 |
How to Apply
AAUW is currently updating its awards management system. Application instructions are not yet available but will be released on the AAUW Fellowships & Grants page.
In the meantime, applicants are encouraged to:
- Stay informed via the AAUW website for updates.
- Review eligibility, funding priorities, and past awardees.
- Begin preparing required documentation ahead of submission.
- Contact AAUW at [email protected] for specific inquiries.
Commitment to Equity
AAUW is dedicated to advancing equity for women and girls through education and advocacy. This fellowship is part of its longstanding mission to break down barriers and support international scholars making a global impact.
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Disclaimer:Â Global South Opportunities (GSO)Â is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
