AAUW Awards More Than $5 Million in 2026–2027

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) announces its 2026–2027 class of fellowships and grants recipients, awarding a projected $5.4 million to 219 outstanding women scholars, researchers, and community change-makers across the country and around the world. For 145 years, AAUW has invested in women’s education, leadership, and economic security, awarding more than $150 million to scholars, researchers, and community-based organizations.

“These awards are a powerful expression of AAUW’s mission in action — supporting the women who are advancing research, pursuing their education, and strengthening communities across the country,” says Gloria L. Blackwell, CEO of AAUW. “We are proud to invest in their success and in the broader impact their work will have for generations to come.”

AAUW’s fellowships and grants are designed to help counter longstanding inequities in education, research and professional advancement by supporting women at pivotal points in their academic and professional journeys. The 2026–2027 awardees include women pursuing advanced study, conducting groundbreaking research, and leading projects designed to improve lives and expand access to education.

By the Numbers: 2026–2027 AAUW Fellowships and Grants Recipients

• 61% of recipients are pursuing degrees or conducting research in STEM fields, where women remain underrepresented.
• Six community-based organizations received up to $75K in funding to implement STEM programs that engage and inspire women and girls in grades K–12.
• 41% of fellows pursuing advanced degrees or research identify as first-generation college students, and 38% come from or are leading single-parent households – underscoring AAUW’s commitment to expanding educational opportunity for those who have historically faced additional barriers.
• International Fellowship and International Project Grants recipients represent 22 countries around the world.

Together, these numbers tell the story of AAUW’s continued investment in expanding opportunity for women and girls — particularly those pursuing leadership in STEM, higher education, research, and communities that have historically faced barriers to access and advancement.

At a time when changes to federal student aid policies and new borrowing limits may make graduate and professional education less accessible for many students, AAUW’s fellowships and grants provide critical support for women pursuing advanced degrees, conducting research, and leading community-based initiatives. This year’s recipient class reflects AAUW’s commitment to ensuring talented women can continue to pursue opportunities in higher education, research, and community leadership, regardless of their background or circumstances.

By investing in both individual scholars and community-based organizations, AAUW is supporting women and girls at every stage of the educational pipeline — from early STEM engagement in grades K–12 to advanced study, research, scholarship, and professional leadership.

These investments advance economic security for women and create pathways for women to thrive in education, leadership, and the workforce.

Learn more about AAUW’s Fellowships and Grants on the website at aauw.org.

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AAUW (American Association of University Women) is the nation’s leading organization for equity in higher education and women’s economic empowerment. Founded in 1881 by women who defied society’s conventions by earning college degrees, AAUW has since worked to increase women’s access, opportunity, and equity in higher education through research, advocacy, and philanthropy of over $140 million, supporting thousands of women scholars. Learn more at aauw.org.