WGU Scholarships for Students

Higher education is a stepping stone to better career opportunities, but its cost can be daunting. Western Governors University (WGU Student Portal) stands out by offering a range of scholarships designed to make education more accessible and affordable. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, WGU scholarships can significantly reduce financial stress and enable students to focus on their studies. 

Why Does WGU Offer Scholarships?

WGU’s mission is to make quality education accessible and affordable for all. By providing scholarships, WGU aims to:

  • Eliminate Financial Barriers: Address one of the most common challenges faced by students.
  • Encourage Excellence: Reward merit and hard work through performance-based scholarships.
  • Promote Inclusivity: Support underrepresented groups and make higher education equitable.
  • Strengthen Partnerships: Leverage relationships with organizations to offer exclusive scholarship opportunities.

Types of WGU Scholarships

General Scholarships

  • Open to all students regardless of their program.
  • Example: Education That Works for You Scholarship
    • Amount: $500 per term (up to $2,000 total).
    • Renewable for up to four terms.

Program-Specific Scholarships

  • Tailored to students enrolled in specific degree programs.
  • Example: Excellence in Health Information Management Scholarship
    • Eligibility: Students pursuing a Bachelor’s in Health Information Management.
    • Amount: $500 per term for up to four terms.

Partnered Organization Scholarships

  • For employees or affiliates of WGU’s partner organizations.
  • Example: Healthcare Partnership Scholarship
    • Amount: $625 per term for up to four terms.
    • Eligibility: Must be affiliated with a qualifying healthcare organization.

State-Based Scholarships

  • Scholarships tailored for students in specific states.
  • Example: WGU Texas Scholarship
    • Eligibility: Students from Texas with an associate degree from a Texas community college.
    • Amount: Varies based on specific state programs.

Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships

  • Promotes access to education for underrepresented groups.
  • Example: Scholarships for women in STEM fields or minority students pursuing business degrees.

Military and Veteran Scholarships

  • Financial support for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families.
  • Example: WGU Military Appreciation Scholarship
    • Amount: Up to $2,500.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility Requirements

  • Financial Need: Based on your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and household size.
  • Academic Performance: Previous transcripts and GPA.
  • Field-Specific Experience: Beneficial for scholarships tied to specific programs.
  • Personal Statements: Well-crafted essays explaining your goals and financial situation.

When to Apply

  • Scholarships are available 90 days before or 30 days after your program start date.
  • Early applications are encouraged to maximize your chances.

Application Steps

  1. Log in to the Scholarship Universe portal using your WGU credentials.
  2. Complete the online application form, including personal information and essays.
  3. Upload required documents (e.g., tax forms, transcripts, or verification letters).
  4. Submit your application and track its progress via the portal.

How to Use Scholarship Universe

Overview

Scholarship Universe simplifies the process of finding and applying for scholarships by matching students with opportunities based on their profiles.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Log In: Use your WGU credentials to access the portal.
  2. Answer Questions: Complete the eligibility questionnaire.
  3. Browse Matches: Review scholarships curated for you, including both WGU and external options.
  4. Apply: Submit applications directly through the platform.

Benefits

  • Saves time by centralizing multiple scholarship opportunities.
  • Provides real-time updates on application status.

What Happens After You Apply?

Review Process

  • Applications are reviewed within three months.
  • Key evaluation criteria include:
    • Essay quality.
    • Financial need.
    • Academic transcripts.

Post-Acceptance Requirements

  • Accept scholarship terms within 60 days.
  • Maintain On-Time Progress (OTP) standards:
    • Undergraduate: Complete 12 Credit Units (CUs) per term.
    • Graduate: Complete 8 CUs per term.

FAQs

How Many Scholarships Does WGU Offer Annually?

WGU awards hundreds of scholarships annually, with 1 in 5 applicants receiving funding.

Can I Combine Multiple Scholarships?

Yes, students can combine multiple scholarships if eligibility criteria are met.

How Long Does the Application Review Take?

Scholarship applications are typically reviewed within three months.

What Happens If I Don’t Meet OTP Standards?

Failing to meet OTP requirements may result in the loss of scholarship renewal for the next term.

Does the Scholarship Money Go Directly to Me?

No, funds are applied directly to your tuition account.