WGU Scholarships: Your Guide to Funding Your Education
Higher education opens doors to better career opportunities, but the cost can be overwhelming. Western Governors University (WGU) believes finances shouldn’t stand in the way of your dreams. That’s why we offer a wide range of scholarships to help you reduce tuition costs, minimize student debt, and focus on what matters—your education.
Why does WGU Offers Scholarships
At WGU, we’re committed to making higher education accessible and affordable. We understand that financial barriers can prevent talented students from pursuing their goals. That’s why we’ve partnered with corporations, foundations, and donors to fund scholarships that help students like you succeed.
Our scholarships aren’t just about money—they’re about investing in your future. Whether you’re a working professional, a parent, or a recent high school graduate, we want to empower you to achieve your goals and transform your life through education.
Types of WGU Scholarships
WGU offers scholarships tailored to fit your unique situation. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:
General Scholarships
These scholarships are open to all students, regardless of their program.
Example: Education That Works for You Scholarship
- Amount: $500 per term (up to $2,000 total)
- Eligibility: Open to all WGU students
- Renewability: Available for up to 4 terms
College-Specific Scholarships
If you’re pursuing a degree in a specific field, you may qualify for scholarships like:
- Example: Excellence in Health Information Management Scholarship: $500 per term for Health Information Management students.
- Teachers College Scholarships: For future educators making a difference in the classroom.
Partnered Organization Scholarships
WGU partners with employers and organizations to offer scholarships to their employees or members. Examples include:
- Healthcare Partnership Scholarship: $625 per term for employees of qualifying healthcare organizations.
- Corporate Partner Scholarships: Available to employees of companies like Amazon, Walmart, and more.
State-based Scholarships
If you’re a resident of certain states, you may qualify for scholarships like:
- Finish to Go Further with the WGU Texas Scholarship: For Texas students with an associate degree from a community college.
- WGU Indiana Scholarship: For Indiana residents pursuing their first bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Military and First Responder Scholarships
We’re proud to support those who serve our communities and country. Scholarships include:
- Active Duty Scholarship: For military personnel pursuing their degree while serving.
- First Responder Scholarship: For firefighters, police officers, and EMTs.
Eligibility and Application Process
When to apply
Apply within 90 days before or 30 days after your program start date to maximize your chances of receiving aid.
Eligibility Criteria
WGU considers various factors for scholarship approval, including:
- Financial Need – Based on adjusted gross income (AGI) and household size.
- Academic Performance – Review of previous education records
- Field Experience – Relevant work or academic background.
- Personal Circumstances – Changes in income or other personal factors.
How to Apply
- Log in to the Scholarship Universe portal using your WGU student credentials. If you don’t have them yet, your enrollment counselor can assist you.
- Answer qualifying questions to match with available scholarships.
- Submit an application, including:
- Personal details and academic records
- Short essay responses (evaluated for quality)
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your most recent tax year and household size
- Proof of employment or military affiliation (if required)
- (Optional) A professional resume to strengthen your application
Explore Scholarship Opportunities with Ease
WGU collaborates with Scholarship Universe, a platform designed to help students find and apply for various scholarships. This tool streamlines the search process by connecting you with both internal and external funding options—all in one place.
Click the button below to visit the Scholarship Universe site and follow the provided instructions.
- Visit Scholarship Universe – Click the button below to access the platform.
- Sign in using your [Your Institution] login details.
- Complete Eligibility Questions – Answer a few questions to match with scholarships tailored to you.
- Browse Available Scholarships – View options offered by [Your Institution] (marked with a special symbol) and external providers.
- Apply & Submit Documents – Select the scholarships you’re eligible for and complete the application process by submitting any required materials.
The Review Process: What Happens Next?
Once submitted, applications go through a review process that may take up to three months. Some students may be required to attend a phone interview. Applicants are notified via email regarding their scholarship status.
What Does the Review Team Look For?
If You Are Awarded a Scholarship
Additional Financial Aid Opportunities
Apart from WGU scholarships, students can also apply for external funding sources through Scholarship Universe. These independent scholarships operate separately from WGU, and applicants should ensure they:
Success Story: How a WGU Scholarship Changed Izzah’s Life
Izzah, a single mom and full-time employee, dreamed of earning her degree in nursing but couldn’t afford the tuition. After applying for the Healthcare Partnership Scholarship, she was awarded $2,500 to cover her costs. Today, Izzah is a registered nurse, providing for her family and making a difference in her community.
“WGU’s scholarship didn’t just help me pay for school—it gave me the confidence to chase my dreams,” Izzah says.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
WGU scholarships are more than just financial aid—they’re an investment in your future. By applying early, telling your story, and exploring all your options, you can reduce the cost of your education and focus on what matters: achieving your goals.