American Dissertation Fellowship 2026 For Women

Applications for the 2026 American Dissertation Fellowship are now available. This fellowship is provided by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and gives $25000 to women scholars who are in their final year of working on their doctoral dissertation. The AAUW fellowship is the oldest and most respected program of its kind starting all the way back in 1888. It helps women in all fields of study but especially encourages those in STEM or researching gender-related topics. This shows AAUW’s strong focus on promoting diversity equity and inclusion in higher education.

Key Points:

• The fellowship offers $25000.
• It is available for Women completing their first doctoral degree.
• All academic fields can apply but STEM and gender studies get extra attention.
• This is the longest-running non-institutional funding for women graduate students in the US.
• Applications will open soon for the 2026 cycle.

Also See: 2026 Horizon Fellowship AI | Fully Funded

American Dissertation Fellowship Summary

Fellowship Benefits

• Total amount given: $25000
• Payment schedule:
  • First half paid at the start
  • Second half paid halfway through

Duration

The fellowship starts on July 1, 2026 and ends on June 30, 2027.

Eligibility Criteria

• Gender Requirement: Must be a woman (self-identified)
• Academic Requirements:
  • Must be working on your first PhD or doctoral degree
  • Must have finished all classes and passed all exams
  • Must have your dissertation topic approved or almost approved
  • Must focus only on writing your dissertation from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.
• School Requirements:
  • Must be studying at a U.S. accredited university OR
  • Must be at an international school approved for U.S. federal student aid.

Also See – Commonwealth 2026 Professional Fellowships Program | Fully Funded

Additional Selection Criteria (Preferred Qualifications)

• Strong research plan with clear budget and realistic timeline.
• First-generation college graduates.
• STEM students or those studying gender-related topics.
• History of supporting women/girls through volunteer work or jobs.
• Projects offering new ideas with big potential impact.
• Strong academic record with awards or honors.
• Overcame major obstacles like discrimination or financial struggles.
• From single-parent homes or currently raising kids alone.

Note: These factors give applicants an edge but aren’t required.

Required Documents

• Transcripts
• Dissertation Certification Form
• Letters of Recommendation
• Proof of Degree

How to Apply? American Dissertation Fellowship 2026

The application process is simple and online. You need to visit the official website and create an account to login. All other application related guidance is available there. Link is given below.