Career Development Grants

Career Development Grants supports the career progression of women by funding to women preparing to advance or change careers or re-enter the workforce. Primary consideration is given to women pursuing their first advanced degree or credentials in education, health and medicine, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and social sciences. Grants are available to support full-time or part-time coursework such as a second bachelor’s or first master’s degree, a certification program, or specialized training in these fields.

Award Details

The award ceiling for Career Development Grants for a degree program is $20,000 and for non-degree programs is $8,000. Grant funds are payable to grantees only and are disbursed as follows:

  • Degree Programs: Two equal payments at the beginning and the midpoint of the grant term
  • Non-degree Programs: In full, either at the beginning of the grant term or at the program start

Timeline

Milestone
Date
Application Submission Period
September 16, 2024 – November 22, 2024
Grant Award Status Notification
April 15, 2025
Tranche #1 of Grant Funds Disbursed
July 2025
Grant Term
July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Tranche #2 of Grant Funds Disbursed (if applicable)
January 2026
Final Report
July 31, 2026

How To Apply

Policies

Tax Liability

The determination of whether there is a tax obligation associated with the receipt of an AAUW award is the sole responsibility of the applicant. Specific questions regarding income tax matters should be addressed with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, the applicant’s financial aid office or a personal tax adviser. AAUW cannot provide tax advice.

Changes to Applicants’ Institution or Areas of Study

Applicants recommended for an award, but whose discipline or institution of study is different than envisioned at the time of application will be disqualified.  

Use of Funds

Career Development Grants may be used for tuition, fees and course-required expenses like books and supplies, as well as housing, food, and other living expenses (including childcare). Awarded funds may not be expended on costs incurred prior to the fellowship term start date or after the fellowship term end date.     

Funds received may or may not be taxable depending on how they are used. It is incumbent on grant recipients to determine any tax related obligations. AAUW does not report Career Development Grant to the Internal Revenue Service and cannot provide tax-related forms or advice to recipients. The determination of whether there is a tax obligation associated with the receipt of an AAUW award is the sole responsibility of awardees. Specific questions regarding income tax matters should be addressed to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, the applicant’s financial aid office or a personal tax advisor.   

FAQs

Is it possible to be notified of my award status prior to April 15th?

No, AAUW is not able to honor requests for earlier notification.

If I had to decline an AAUW award in the past due to eligibility concerns or personal reasons, am I allowed to reapply?

Yes, if you were awarded an AAUW fellowship or grant but had to decline it without receiving your stipend, you are eligible to reapply.