AAUW International Fellowships 2026 for Women in the US

The AAUW International Fellowships offer an outstanding opportunity for Nigerian women and other international candidates to pursue fully funded postgraduate studies in the United States. This highly competitive programme supports women who have demonstrated academic excellence and a commitment to using their education to uplift their home communities, especially women and girls.

Since 1917, the AAUW has funded international women pursuing full-time Master’s and Doctoral degrees at accredited U.S. institutions. The fellowships are specifically for non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents and are ideal for those with a strong track record in education, leadership, and social impact.

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Scholarship Overview

Application Window: 1 August – 30 September 2025

Host Country: United States

Funding Body: American Association of University Women (AAUW)

Level: Master’s & Doctorate (Full-time, Onsite Programmes)

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Fellowship Benefits

• $20,000 for Master’s students
• $25,000 for Doctoral students
• Funds will be in two instalments during the fellowship year
• The award covers tuition, living expenses, research, and travel
• Up to 5 awards are also available for Graduate Women International (GWI) members pursuing studies outside the U.S.

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be a woman
• Must be a citizen of Nigeria or any country outside the U.S.
• Must hold a Bachelor’s degree equivalent to a U.S. degree
• Must have a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 in the highest degree earned
• Must be applying for a full-time Master’s or Doctorate programme at an accredited U.S. university
• Must plan to return to your home country upon completion of the programme
• Applicants pursuing studies in a country other than their own or the U.S. must be members of Graduate Women International (GWI)

Note: Applicants already holding U.S. citizenship or permanent residency are not eligible.

Selection Criteria

AAUW seeks applicants who not only demonstrate strong academic achievements but also show clear intent to return to their home countries and use their education to advance social change, especially in the lives of women and girls.

Master’s applicants will be assessed based on:

• Academic distinction and GPA
• Quality and clarity of study plans
• Leadership potential and community impact
• Preference for women currently living in Nigeria and also pursuing their first international academic experience

Doctoral applicants will be assessed based on:

• Research originality and relevance
• Scholarly achievements and professional potential
• Clear research goals and timelines
• Strong intent to impact the home country through academia or professional practice

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Application Timeline

Application Guidelines

All applications must be submitted online via the AAUW portal. Only complete applications that meet all eligibility requirements and include all required documents will be reviewed.

Required Documents

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Statement of purpose/study plan
• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• Two reference letters
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Valid international passport

Note: Once submitted, applications cannot be edited. Incomplete submissions will be disqualified.

A Fellowship for Future African Women Leaders

The AAUW International Fellowships programme is more than a scholarship; it’s an investment in your leadership journey, your career potential, and your ability to uplift others. If you’re a Nigerian woman determined to make a difference in your field and community, this is your opportunity to pursue a world-class education and return empowered.

For more details and to apply, visit the AAUW International Fellowships official page here.