FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Welcome to the CFUW Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) !
Whether you're a current member, prospective member, or simply curious about who we are and what we do, this FAQ is here to help.
In this section, you'll find answers to common questions about our organization, membership, programs, scholarships, advocacy work, and more. If you don’t see your question here, we encourage you to reach out to us through the Contact Us form !
Popular Questions
Yes! Scholarships and fellowships are available through the CFUW Charitable Trust, which is a sister organization from CFUW but a separate legal entity from it and the CFUW National Office. The Charitable Trust is an independent, registered charity focused solely on fundraising and administering fellowships and awards for women pursuing graduate studies—including Canadians studying abroad.
Currently, the application period for the 2025–2026 academic year is closed, but you can review last year’s eligibility criteria and award details on the Charitable Trust website to prepare for the next cycle. If you have specific questions, you're encouraged to contact the Trust directly at fellowships@cfuwcharitabletrust.ca.
In addition, many local CFUW clubs across Canada offer scholarships and bursaries at the community level. To explore those options, visit our Active Clubs Directory and search by location (province/city) to find your nearest club and contact information.
The CFUW Charitable Trust is a registered charity that was established in 1967 and plays a key role in providing fellowships, scholarships, and awards to help women pursue graduate studies in Canada and abroad. The Trust receives donations from CFUW members, clubs, and supporters. These funds are managed by the Trustees, who oversee investments and allocate funds to scholarship programs. The Trust operates under federal charitable regulations and submits annual financial reports to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). To learn more about the Charitable Trust, click here : https://cfuwcharitabletrust.ca/about-us/
The Charitable Trust is a separate legal entity and a registered charity, with a focus on fundraising and awarding scholarships. The National Office is not a charity; it focuses on member support, advocacy, administration, and governance of the organization. While the two work closely together, the Trust operates independently in financial management and decision-making related to scholarships and donations.
The CFUW National Office serves as the central hub for our organization : supporting our members, coordinating national initiatives, and ensuring CFUW runs smoothly from coast to coast to coast.
We provide tools, resources, and one-on-one assistance to help CFUW Clubs thrive. Whether it's helping with membership, leadership transitions, or program ideas, we’re here to make sure Clubs have what they need to succeed. We also coordinate communications to keep members informed and connected across the country.
The National Office organizes campaigns and advocacy work that reflect CFUW’s core priorities like gender equality, education, and social justice. We develop policy briefs and help Clubs take local action on national issues.
From newsletters to social media and our website, we keep members and the public up to date on CFUW news, opportunities, and accomplishments. We promote CFUW’s mission and raise our national profile through public relations and partnerships.
We handle the day-to-day administration that keeps CFUW running, managing finances, maintaining our member database, organizing national events like the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and supporting the Board of Directors.
Working closely with the Board, we help bring CFUW’s vision and goals to life through thoughtful planning, collaboration, and innovation. We also build relationships with like-minded organizations and speak out on behalf of CFUW when needed.
In 2023, CFUW made the decision to use only its acronym — CFUW — rather than its historic full name: Canadian Federation of University Women / La Fédération canadienne des femmes diplômées des universités.
This change was part of a broader effort to reflect a more inclusive and modern identity. While CFUW was originally founded to support women’s access to higher education, a university degree is no longer required to become a valued and equal member. Moving away from the word “university” helps us better reflect our diverse membership and welcome all women who share our values.
That said, continuing to use the acronym honours CFUW’s 100+ year legacy, preserving our historic roots in education and advocacy.
No, CFUW is not affiliated with any university or academic institution.
Despite our historic name, CFUW is an independent, non-partisan, voluntary organization. Today, we focus on advancing education, gender equity, and social justice more broadly.
Our members come from all walks of life and backgrounds — united not by academic affiliation, but by shared values and a commitment to meaningful change.
CFUW is a national, non-partisan, voluntary organization made up of nearly 90 local clubs across Canada.
Together, clubs, the Board, Regional Directors, and the National Office make CFUW a vibrant, coast-to-coast community committed to advancing gender equity through education, advocacy, and connection.
Clubs bring CFUW’s mission to life through book clubs, social events, advocacy, and fundraising for local scholarships and grants. Each club is self-directed, building a strong community of women engaged in lifelong learning, equity, and social change. Many clubs host both in-person and virtual events — check out our Event Calendar to see what’s coming up near you!
At the national level, CFUW is governed by a Board of Directors elected for two-year terms. The Board provides overall leadership, sets strategic direction, and oversees national-level initiatives and advocacy. Board members also chair committees and represent CFUW provincially or regionally.
Supporting this structure are 18 Regional Directors, who serve as a vital link between the Board and the clubs. They help guide new club leaders, support club activities, and encourage engagement in CFUW’s policy work.
The CFUW National Office, based in Ottawa, keeps the organization running smoothly. It manages communications, membership systems, national events, advocacy coordination, and acts as the central hub connecting clubs, the Board, and external partners.
For more information on CFUW’s history and national structure, visit the About section of our website.
CFUW clubs are local groups across Canada that form the foundation of our organization. Each club is self-directed and creates its own programming based on the interests and priorities of its members.
Clubs organize a wide variety of activities — from book clubs, social gatherings, and dinners to outings and advocacy initiatives focused on women’s rights, education, and gender equality. They also play an important role in their communities by fundraising for scholarships and grants to support local students pursuing post-secondary education.
Many CFUW clubs host both in-person and virtual events, some open to the public. You can explore what's happening near you by browsing the CFUW Event Calendar.
Joining a club is a great way to meet new people, stay engaged in meaningful issues, and make a real difference in your community.
To find and join a club near you, visit the CFUW Active Club Directory on our national website: www.cfuw.org – just look under “Find Your Local Club.” From there, you’ll be able to access your local club’s website or contact information and follow their specific membership instructions.
Most CFUW clubs do not have a permanent office space and conduct their activities in a hybrid format—online and/or in person. You can reach out to them directly by email or phone if you have questions about membership, upcoming events, or the types of activities they offer. Whether you're looking for social connection, meaningful volunteer work, or ways to advocate for gender equality, CFUW clubs have so much to offer!
Yes! CFUW has two virtual clubs, known as E-Clubs: the CFUW Canada GWI E-Club and the CFUW E-Club. These clubs operate just like local CFUW clubs, offering regular online meetings, events, and the same membership dues—perfect for those who prefer or require a virtual format.
You can visit their websites or contact their executive teams directly to learn more about their activities and how to join.
CFUW Canada GWI E-Club
Website: cfuwcanadagwi.com
Email: info@cfuwcanadagwi.com
CFUW E-Club
If you are interested in joining the CFUW E-Club or would like more information, please contact us by filling a contact us form and we will be happy to connect you with the adequate person.
For CFUW Clubs
The CFUW National Office provides a range of tools and services to help your club run smoothly, grow, and stay connected across the country.
Member’s Drive – Your Resource Hub
A centralized Google Drive for CFUW members, filled with essential resources:
- Branding & logos (including the 2023 update)
- “Club in a Bag” guide for new/small clubs
- “You’re the President! Now What?” toolkit
- Discount codes, advocacy materials, templates, and more
Access it via:
- GrowthZone: https://cfuw.member365.ca → Resources
- Need the link? Email: memberservices@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
Navigation Help: Use the Resource Document in:
Biennium 2024–2026 > Resource Hub > Club Resources
GrowthZone Membership Platform
Available to club executives for:
- Member management
- Paying dues
- Accessing the national directory
- Submitting events to appear on the CFUW National website cfuw.org
Zoom Pro Account Access
Clubs can request use of CFUW’s Zoom Pro account for meetings and events.
Find the Zoom Request Form in the Member’s Drive:
Resource Hub > Club Resources
You’ll find:
- Fillable forms (PDF, Word, Google Form link)
- A guide to submitting the form
- A how-to guide on using Zoom
Questions? Contact: adminassistant@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
Ongoing Support from the National Office
CFUW National also offers:
- Guidance and administrative support for club executives
- Training sessions and resource walkthroughs
- Promotion of club events and initiatives through national channels
- Coordination of national advocacy and educational campaigns
All essential resources for CFUW clubs are available in the CFUW Member’s Drive, a centralized hub designed to support your club's success and visibility.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can find and where to find it:
Branding & Logos
Head to the CFUW Branding folder in the Member’s Drive to access official logos, including the updated 2023 CFUW logo, perfect for creating club merchandise or updating your materials.
Helpful Club Resources
Benefits & Discount Codes – Exclusive offers available for CFUW members.
“Club in a Bag” PDF – A comprehensive guide for small or start-up clubs. It includes:
An overview of CFUW
Tips on starting and running a club
Meeting information and programming ideas
Strategies for attracting new members
“You’re the President! Now What?” PowerPoint – A fantastic starter kit for new club presidents and executives.
Organizational Tools
Up-to-date versions of CFUW Organizational Documents, Advocacy Materials, National Committee Info, and Club Resources are all kept in the Drive.
Finding Your Way Around
To help you navigate the Member’s Drive, check out these two key documents:
CFUW’s Member’s Drive Breakdown – Found on the homepage of the Drive.
CFUW’s Member’s Drive Resource Document – Located under:
Biennium 2024–2026 > Resource Hub > Club Resources
Both contain hyperlinks to every major folder and document, making it easy to find exactly what you need.
The CFUW Member’s Drive is an exclusive online resource hub for CFUW members, hosted on Google Drive. It contains important documents, guides, templates, and tools to help clubs operate, grow, and stay informed.
Who Can Access It?
Access is restricted to CFUW members only, especially club executives (presidents, VPs, treasurers, membership chairs, etc.).
How to Access the Member’s Drive
There are three main ways to access it:
Via the CFUW’s Member’s Drive Resource Document
Located in:
Biennium 2024–2026 > Resource Hub > Club ResourcesThis document contains direct links to all main folders and includes a Drive Map to help you explore.
Through the CFUW Member Database (GrowthZone platform)
Login as a club executive at: https://cfuw.member365.ca
Navigate to the Resources section to find the Member’s Drive link.
Can’t access the database? Contact the Member Services Coordinator at
📧 memberservices@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
Request the Link Directly
Email either:
📧 Administrative Assistant: adminassistant@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
📧 Member Services Coordinator: memberservices@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
They’ll be happy to provide the direct link.
How to Navigate the Drive
Use the CFUW’s Member’s Drive Resource Document or Drive Map (linked in the document) to:
Click folder titles and access what you need quickly.
Learn what’s inside key folders like:
Archives
Biennium 2022–2024
Biennium 2024–2026
Committee Folder Template
Admin Assistant – adminassistant@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
📧 Member Services Coordinator – memberservices@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
CFUW offers free use of its Zoom account to Clubs on a first-come, first-served basis. Meetings can host up to 300 participants.
To request access :
- Go to the CFUW Member’s Drive → Biennium 2024–2026 > Resource Hub > Club Resources
- The folder includes:
- Fillable forms (PDF, Word, Google Form link)
- A guide on completing the form
- A how-to guide for using Zoom
- Submit the form via the Google Form link or email a completed PDF/Word form to the National Office Admin Assistant at adminassistant@cfuw-fcfdu.ca.
- We’ll set up the meeting and send you the link and host login details.
The CFUW Member Database (GrowthZone) is used by Club executives (e.g. president, treasurer, membership chair) to manage membership and administration.
To log in, go to cfuw.org and click Log In at the top left. Use the email address registered in the CFUW directory. If it’s your first time, click Forgot Password to set your password.
Once logged in, you can update members numbers, pay dues, access the Member’s Drive, the directory and submit events.
Need help? Contact memberservices@cfuw-fcfdu.ca.
Once you become a CFUW member, you’ll pay annual membership dues to your local club. These dues typically cover multiple levels of the organization: National, Provincial, and Local, and may also include optional dues for Graduate Women International (GWI) if your club opts in.
For the 2025–2026 membership year, the dues are:
- CFUW National Dues: $55.00
- Optional GWI Dues: $35.38
- Total with GWI (if applicable): $90.38
- + Local Club Dues: These vary by club
Each spring, the CFUW National Office issues invoices to club, usually in early March, so that clubs can collect dues from their members in time for the upcoming membership year.
How to Pay (for Clubs):
Clubs can submit payment to the National Office by cheque or e-transfer:
By Cheque:
Make payable to: Canadian Federation of University Women
Mail to:
230-815 St Laurent Blvd.
Ottawa, ON K1K 3A7
By E-transfer:
Email: execdir@cfuw-fcfdu.ca
Include your club name and number of members in the message/memo field.
For questions about dues or payments, please contact the CFUW National Office.
If there’s no CFUW club near you and you’re interested in starting one, we’d love to hear from you! The first step is to make sure you identify with CFUW’s mission of advocating for the rights of women and girls, promoting education, and fostering community.
Then, contact the CFUW National Office (visit www.cfuw.org for contact details). A member of our team will connect with you to walk you through the steps of starting a new club. We’ll provide information on membership requirements, club structure, the application process, and the support available to help you get started !
If your club is looking for help, the right contact will depend on the nature of your question or issue:
Regional Directors are your first point of contact for club-level support. They stay in regular touch with clubs in their area and can assist with everything from leadership transitions to programming ideas.
For help related to recruitment, retention, or member engagement, you can reach out to the VP of Membership.
For general inquiries, administrative questions, or national-level matters, contact the CFUW National Office.
Not sure who to contact? The National Office can help direct your question to the right person.
The Article and Bylaws document is one of the core governance documents of CFUW. It outlines the organization's legal framework, structure, and operating rules. This includes information on membership, the Board of Directors, elections, voting rights, committees, and the roles and responsibilities of key leadership positions.
You can find the most up-to-date version of the Articles and Bylaws on the CFUW Member’s Drive, under: Biennium 2024–2026 > CFUW Organizational Documents > Articles and Bylaws.
The Articles & Bylaws Committee sends out a call for amendments annually. This process can be found in the Club Action Newsletter around February. Members can propose amendments to the Bylaws by submitting written proposals ahead of the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Club Life Member (Lifetime Member): Honoured by the club for exceptional service. The club pays their CFUW per capita dues.
National Honorary Member: A woman recognized for extraordinary contributions to CFUW or society at large, consistent with CFUW’s mission. This member must be approved by the National Board.
A dual membership can mean two things:
- If you belong to a GWI "opt-out" club but still want to support Graduate Women International (GWI), you can join a second “opt-in” club.
- You enjoy programming from multiple clubs and wish to participate in more than one. In both cases, you only pay National Dues once, but may owe Local Dues to each club. GWI dues are paid only once if applicable.
These terms refer to whether a CFUW club chooses to financially support Graduate Women International (GWI) by paying annual dues to them, in addition to the national, provincial, and local CFUW dues.
Graduate Women International (GWI) is an international federation that advocates for women’s rights, equality, and access to education globally. CFUW is a member organization of GWI. Clubs that wish to support GWI can contribute through annual dues, which go toward GWI’s global advocacy and programming.
Advocacy
CFUW, and all CFUW Clubs, are strictly non-partisan—this means we do not support, oppose, endorse, campaign for, or donate to any political party or candidate, whether at the federal, provincial, or local level.
Being non-partisan means we must avoid activities such as:
- Posting commentary about any political party or candidate on social media
- Inviting only one candidate to speak at a Club or public event
- Soliciting support or donations for a candidate at CFUW events or via Club communications
- Linking CFUW’s advocacy issues to a specific party or candidate
However, non-partisan does not mean non-political. CFUW actively engages in political advocacy—we take positions on policies, laws, and government actions that align with our mission, values, and member-adopted resolutions. Our advocacy is about influencing policy, not promoting parties.
This also applies to international matters. While CFUW cannot support or oppose political parties in other countries, we can and do speak out against policies of foreign governments when they conflict with CFUW’s commitment to equality, human rights, social justice, and peace.
The Advocacy Handbook on the Member's Drive contains tons of great advice about how CFUW clubs can engage in advocacy at the local level.
It’s available on the Member’s Drive:
Member’s Drive > Biennium 2024 - 2026 > Resource Hub > Advocacy Resources > Advocacy Handbook.