About the AAUW International Fellowships

• Scholarship Name: AAUW International Fellowships.
• University: Any accredited U.S. university.
• Amount: $18,000–$30,000 per year, depending on degree level.
• Eligibility: Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, applying for master's, PhD, or postdoctoral study in the U.S.
• Selection Criteria: Academic excellence, demonstrated commitment to women and girls, and financial need.
• GPA Requirement: Strong academic record — no minimum GPA stated.
• English Proficiency: TOEFL 79+ / IELTS 6.5+.
• Application Process: Online application through the AAUW portal.
• Renewability: One-time award; may be renewed in some cases.
• Application Deadline: November 15, 2025.

How to Win the AAUW International Fellowship

Writing a Winning Motivation Letter

• Open with a personal moment that shaped your commitment to women and girls.
• Show academic and professional achievements with concrete outcomes.
• Name the exact U.S. program and why it fits your goals.
• Explain your plan to empower women and girls in Afghanistan.
• Close with a two-sentence commitment to your mission.

Asking for Recommendation Letters

• Ask three academic or professional referees 6 weeks in advance.
• Provide your CV, transcript, draft statement, and AAUW criteria.
• Offer to draft, so referees only edit.
• Send polite reminders one week before the deadline.

Preparing for the AAUW Review

• Rehearse your personal statement clearly.
• Be prepared to explain your commitment to women and girls.
• Know your program and how it advances your goals.
• Prepare a clear 3–5 year career plan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing deadlines because of time zones. Confirm in U.S. local time.
• Submitting uncertified transcripts. Certified translations required.
• Weak commitment to women and girls. AAUW expects clear evidence.
• Generic statements. Tailor every paragraph to AAUW values.
• Applying to only one fellowship. Successful applicants apply to 10+.
• Ignoring recommender deadlines. Give referees a written schedule.

Remember, AAUW is specifically for women — highlight your commitment to empowering women and girls!

Application Details

Required Documents

• Completed online application form
• Certified academic transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Three letters of recommendation
• Personal statement and study plan
• CV / Resume
• Copy of passport

Application Timeline

• Exact Deadline: November 15, 2025
• Application Opens: August 1, 2025
• Review Period: December 2025–February 2026
• Final Decisions: April 2026
• Fellowship Begins: July 1, 2026

Selection Criteria

• Academic excellence
• Demonstrated commitment to women and girls
• Financial need
• Fit with the chosen U.S. program
• Potential for long-term impact

Additional Information

• Application Fee: None
• Number of Awards: Approximately 30 globally per year
• Interview Format: No interview — document review only
• Notification Date: April 2026
• Proof of Funds: Not required
• Health Insurance: Not included — must be arranged separately
• Family Allowance: No
• Visa Support: Yes, F-1 or J-1 visa sponsorship
• Contact Email: fellowships@aauw.org