Deadline: September 30, 2025
The AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious award supports women completing the final year of their doctoral dissertation, offering $25,000 in funding to help them focus exclusively on research and writing.
If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and preparing to finalise your doctoral dissertation, this is an incredible opportunity to receive recognition and financial support from one of the most respected women’s organisations in the world.
About the AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship 2026
The AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship 2026 is part of the American Association of University Women’s long-standing commitment to advancing education and equality for women. Established in 1888, this fellowship has supported thousands of scholars in achieving their academic goals.
The 2026 fellowship provides a $25,000 stipend to doctoral candidates who have completed all coursework, passed their preliminary exams, and are in the final year of dissertation writing.
Fellowship Details
- Award Amount: $25,000 (paid in two equal instalments – at the start and midpoint of the fellowship year).
- Fellowship Period: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027.
- Application Window: August 1 – September 30, 2025.
- Notification Date: April 15, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Identify as a woman.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Have completed all coursework and passed preliminary exams.
- Have an approved dissertation research proposal.
- Be enrolled in the final year of their first doctoral degree.
- Be registered at either:
- A U.S.-accredited institution, or
- An international institution eligible for U.S. federal student aid.
Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Scholarly excellence and originality of research.
- Demonstrated commitment to supporting women and girls.
- Feasibility and clarity of the proposed research plan.
- Timeliness – applicants must demonstrate they can complete their dissertation within the fellowship year.
Preference will be given to candidates:
- In STEM disciplines or conducting research on gender issues.
- Who have shown resilience, such as overcoming personal challenges.
- Who are first-generation college students or from single-parent households.
Why Apply?
This fellowship not only provides crucial financial support but also national recognition for your scholarly work. It enables you to dedicate full-time effort to completing your dissertation while joining a network of leading women scholars across disciplines.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: August 1, 2025
- Deadline: September 30, 2025
- Notification: April 15, 2026
- Fellowship Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
Final Thoughts
The AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship 2026 represents more than funding—it is an investment in the future of women’s scholarship. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this chance to gain the support you need to bring your research to completion.
Apply & Learn More
- Click here to apply for the AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship
- Read more about the AAUW American Dissertation Fellowship 2026 here
For expert assistance in proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
