AAUW's proud tradition of funding women pursuing higher education is anchored in its American Fellowship, AAUW's flagship initiative. The American Dissertation Fellowship, in particular, offsets scholars' expenses during their final year of dissertation writing and deepens AAUW's impact by accelerating diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia. The American Dissertation Fellowship is open to women in all fields of study, though those engaged in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, or those researching gender issues, are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants must have completed all coursework, passed all preliminary exams, have a prior-approved research proposal, or plan and be engaged in completing the final year of their dissertation writing on a full-time basis from July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027. Applicants must be completing their first doctoral degree. Applicants must be enrolled at an institution accredited in the United States, or an international institution recognized as eligible to participate in US federal student aid programs, as listed on the Federal Student Aid Participating Schools list. Applicant's research must demonstrate originality in its design and must have the potential to make significant contributions to the relevant academic or professional field. Feasibility of the research plans, the funding of those plans and the proposed timeline for their completion are also included in the selection criteria. Preference will be given to applicants pursuing doctoral studies in science, technology, engineering, or math fields; or those researching gender issues. Preference will also be given to applicants who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming life challenges beyond their control, such as socioeconomic status, discrimination, limited academic resources or opportunities, or other adverse circumstances. Preference will be given to applicants who were the first in their family to attain a bachelor's degree. Preference will also be given to applicants who lead or hail from single parent households. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation. One must be from the applicant's dissertation advisor, and the second may be from a professor, colleague, or others who are professionally familiar with the applicant, their scholarly work, teaching, professional, and/or academic background. Please visit the fellowship's website or contact the American Association of University Women for more information.