AAUW International Fellowships for Women — Up to US$50,000
AAUW International Fellowships fund women from outside the US (including African women) pursuing full-time Masters, PhD, or postdoctoral study at a US institution. Awards, eligibility, deadlines.
By Scholarships for Africans EditorialUSA
At a glance
- Sponsor
- American Association of University Women (AAUW)
- Level
- Masters / Professional (US$20,000), PhD (US$25,000), Postdoctoral (US$50,000)
- Funding
- Stipend only — not a full ride; combinable with university aid
- Deadline
- November 15 each year
Who is eligible
- Woman (cis or trans) who is not a US citizen or permanent resident.
- Holding the academic equivalent of a US Bachelor's by the application deadline.
- Intending to return to your home country to pursue a professional career.
- Accepted to a US institution by April for the year of the award; you do not need an offer at application.
What the award covers
- Masters / Professional Fellowship: US$20,000
- Doctoral Fellowship: US$25,000
- Postdoctoral Research Leave Fellowship: US$50,000
- Funds are paid as a stipend and may be used for tuition, fees, supplies, living expenses, or dependent care.
How to apply
- Open the AAUW International Fellowship portal in August.
- Prepare your CV, personal statement, research proposal (PhD/postdoc), and academic transcripts.
- Secure two academic references familiar with your work.
- Submit by November 15. Awards are announced the following April.
Frequently asked questions
Do African women qualify for AAUW?
Yes. AAUW International Fellowships are explicitly for women from outside the US, and African applicants are well represented among awardees.
Is AAUW a full scholarship?
No. AAUW is a stipend (US$20,000–US$50,000) intended to supplement other funding. Pair it with university tuition awards or external fellowships.
Can I apply before I have a US admission?
Yes. You can apply while still in the admissions process — just provide proof of admission by April for the year you intend to take up the award.
Do I have to return to my home country?
Yes. AAUW requires a commitment to return home and pursue a professional career after your US studies.