The Women's single sculls competition at the 1996 Summer Olympics took place at Lake Lanier, Atlanta, United States of America.

The event was held from 21 to 27 July 1996.

[1] The winner in each heat advanced directly to the semi-finals.

The remaining rowers must compete in the repechage for the remaining spots in semi-finals.

First three rowers in each race advanced to Semifinal 1 or 2, the rest went to Final C. First three rowers from each semifinal advanced to Final A, while the others advanced to Final B.