The AAUW International Fellowships are prestigious scholarships offered by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) to support women from around the globe in pursuing graduate or postgraduate studies in the United States. Established in 1917, these fellowships aim to empower women by enabling them to achieve academic and professional excellence, thereby contributing meaningfully to their communities and the broader world.
The program is open to women who demonstrate academic brilliance, leadership potential, and a commitment to improving the lives of women and girls in their home countries. These fellowships are not limited to specific fields, allowing recipients to study across a wide range of disciplines.
Scholarship Worth Yearly
The AAUW International Fellowships provide substantial financial assistance to cover educational and living expenses. The annual awards are:
- Master’s and First Professional Degrees: $20,000
- Doctoral Degrees: $25,000
- Postdoctoral Research: $50,000
In addition to tuition fees, the fellowship can be used for expenses such as travel, childcare, supplies, and books. This flexibility ensures recipients can focus on their studies and research without financial stress.
Requirements for Applying
To qualify for the AAUW International Fellowships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Gender Requirement: The applicant must identify as a woman.
- Citizenship: The candidate must be a citizen of a country other than the United States or possess a non-immigrant visa.
- Academic Qualifications:
- For Master’s or Doctoral Fellowships: The applicant must have a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree and be enrolled in a U.S.-accredited institution.
- For Postdoctoral Fellowships: The applicant must hold a doctorate degree earned no earlier than November 15, 2016.
- Full-Time Study or Research: The fellowship supports full-time academic or research pursuits.
- Commitment to Women and Girls: Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to advancing opportunities for women and girls in their home countries.
- English Proficiency: Evidence of English language proficiency is required, typically through TOEFL or IELTS scores unless the applicant has a degree from an English-speaking institution.
Application Guide and Procedure
Applying for the AAUW International Fellowships involves several steps:
- Review Eligibility Criteria
Carefully review the fellowship requirements to ensure you qualify for the program. - Prepare Necessary Documents
Gather the following materials:- Academic transcripts
- Proof of degree (bachelor’s and higher)
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Admission letter from a U.S. institution (if available)
- English proficiency test scores (TOEFL or IELTS)
- Complete the Online Application
Visit the official AAUW website and create an account to access the application portal. Fill out the application form accurately, providing all requested details. - Write and Submit Essays
Applicants must submit well-written essays that address their academic goals, leadership experiences, and how the fellowship will help them contribute to their home communities. - Provide Recommendations
Secure recommendation letters from professors, mentors, or employers who can attest to your academic and professional potential. - Pay Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $35 must be paid online during the submission process. - Submit Before Deadline
Ensure all materials are submitted by the annual deadline, usually in mid-November. Applications submitted after this date are not considered.
FAQs and Conclusion
Q1: Can I apply if I am already studying in the U.S.?
Yes, international students who are currently enrolled in U.S. institutions may apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Q2: Can the fellowship be renewed?
No, the AAUW International Fellowship is not renewable. However, recipients may apply for additional grants through AAUW to support community-based projects.
Q3: Is the fellowship limited to specific fields of study?
No, the fellowship supports women in a variety of disciplines, including STEM, social sciences, arts, and humanities.
Q4: Can the funds be used for dependents or family members?
No, the fellowship funds are solely intended for the recipient’s education and personal expenses.
Conclusion
The AAUW International Fellowships are a transformative opportunity for women worldwide to achieve their academic and professional dreams. By providing generous financial support and fostering global connections, AAUW empowers women to create lasting change in their communities and beyond.
If you are a woman dedicated to academic excellence and social impact, the AAUW International Fellowship could be your gateway to success. Start your application today and join a legacy of women leaders shaping the world