AAUW International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships – 2026

Posted by: Smart || Categories: Scholarship

Overview
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) proudly announces the 2026 cycle of its International Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, reaffirming its century-long commitment to promoting gender equity in higher education. These prestigious fellowships are awarded to women scholars who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, enabling them to conduct full-time postdoctoral research at institutions in the United States.

Since 1917, AAUW has empowered thousands of women across the globe, advancing academic excellence and leadership while fostering social progress in their home communities.

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Program Level

• Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

Fields of Study

Applicants may pursue research in the following disciplines (but are not limited to):

• Biology, Chemistry, Physics

• Earth & Environmental Sciences

• Health, Medicine & Psychology

• Agriculture, Architecture & Engineering

• Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science & Technology

• Materials Science & Zoology

• Data Science & Information Technology

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Fellowship Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• A $50,000 stipend, paid in two equal installments

• Support for research-related travel, living expenses, and eligible project costs

• International recognition through affiliation with AAUW’s global network

• Opportunity to apply for internships with AAUW partners, such as Apple (if available)

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Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

• Identify as a woman

• Be a non-U.S. citizen or permanent resident

• Hold a completed doctoral degree (Ph.D., Ed.D., M.D., J.D., or equivalent)

• Demonstrate a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 (or equivalent)

• Be admitted to a U.S.-based postdoctoral program by the application deadline

• Be available to start the fellowship by September 1, 2026

• Commit to full-time research throughout the fellowship term (until at least May 30, 2027)

• Show a strong academic track record and commitment to the advancement of women and girls

• Not receive a similar full funding award during the same fellowship term

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Preferred Candidate Profile

AAUW encourages applications from candidates who:

• Are residing in their home country at the time of application

• Represent underrepresented regions or countries among previous awardees

• Are pursuing their first international postdoctoral opportunity

• Can outline a clear strategy for contributing to their home country after the fellowship

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Key Dates (2025–2027 Timeline)

• Application Opens: August 1, 2025

• Deadline to Apply: September 30, 2025

• Award Notification: April 15, 2026

• Fellowship Start Window: July – September 2026

• Fellowship Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027

• Interim Report Due: December 15, 2026

• Final Report Due: July 31, 2027

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Required Application Materials

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Two letters of recommendation (not from dossier services)

• Copy of doctoral degree certificate

• Official academic transcript

• Proof of GPA (minimum 3.5/4.0 or equivalent)

• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, or Duolingo)

• Admission letter from a U.S. postdoctoral institution

• Certified translations of documents not in English

• Explanation for any discrepancy in names across documents

• GWI membership proof (if applicable for applicants conducting research outside the U.S.)

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Important Notes

• All applications must be fully completed before the deadline. No additions or edits are accepted after submission.

• AAUW does not provide individual feedback on applications.

• No deadline extensions will be granted under any circumstance.

• This fellowship does not support candidates pursuing academic coursework during the fellowship.

• Fellowship recipients are responsible for securing their own visa to the United States.

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How to Apply

AAUW is in the process of updating its application system. While the portal is currently unavailable, prospective applicants should:

• Visit the AAUW Fellowships & Grants page for updates

• Begin preparing all necessary documents early

• Direct any inquiries to awards@aauw.org

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Conclusion

The AAUW International Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026 is more than a funding opportunity—it’s a transformative platform for women researchers to drive scientific innovation, promote social change, and lead in global academic arenas. With generous financial support, global networking opportunities, and a commitment to equity, this fellowship empowers women to shape the future—one discovery at a time.

APPLY HERE

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