Online learning can be a flexible and convenient way for busy working adults to advance their education. Yet paying for college is difficult, especially for online students lacking access to traditional campus-based aid opportunities.
Western Governors University (WGU) aims to reduce financial barriers through merit-based scholarship programs. These competitive awards recognize a candidate’s academic record and potential, helping make WGU’s affordable tuition even more within reach.
This guide covers WGU’s scholarship offerings, eligibility criteria, selection process, and application timeline. Read on to learn how scholarships can help you achieve your goal of earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree online with WGU.
Key Takeaways:
- WGU offers competitive scholarships like the WGU Excellence Award and WGU Online Access Grant to make earning your online degree more affordable.
- Scholarships can cover 25% – 100% of tuition costs over your program.
- Eligibility requires enrolling in an undergraduate or graduate program and demonstrating academic merit plus financial need.
- The application involves grades, test scores, essays, recommendation letters and more to showcase your candidacy.
- Scholarship funding combined with federal financial aid can add up to major tuition savings.
What Are WGU Scholarships?
Western Governors University offers a variety of scholarships aimed at supporting new students or returning graduates in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to make education more accessible and can be applied to various degree programs, including the BSN-to-MSN program and other specialized areas.
Overview of WGU Scholarship Opportunities
WGU offers a range of competitive scholarships for newly enrolling undergraduate and graduate students:
WGU Online Access Scholarship: One-time awards between $500 – $4,000 to help fund your first term of enrollment
WGU Excellence Scholarship: Renewable awards covering 25% – 100% of tuition over your degree program
Partner Scholarships: Special awards for those affiliated with WGU partner groups like military, veterans, community colleges, national honor societies and more
WGU Alumni Scholarship: $2,500 one-time awards for WGU graduates returning to start a new degree program
Scholarship recipients may also qualify for additional federal/state financial aid programs. Multiple grant and scholarship sources can combine to significantly reduce your out-of-pocket degree costs.
WGU Scholarship Award Amounts
| Scholarship Type | Average Award Amount |
|---|---|
| Merit-based Scholarships | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Need-based Scholarships | $500 – $2,000 |
| Diversity Scholarships | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Program-specific Scholarships | $500 – $2,000 |
Am I Eligible to Apply for a WGU Featured Scholarship?
WGU has a few standard eligibility requirements to apply for their scholarship opportunities:
- You must be an enrolled or soon-to-enroll undergraduate or graduate student pursuing your first WGU degree.
- New students must have applied for program admission but can apply before officially enrolling.
- Award selection considers a candidate’s academic record, work experience, leadership activities, community service, and financial need. Strong applications paint a picture of a motivated student with the commitment to succeed.
- Recipients must maintain good academic standing and meet the university’s scholarship renewal criteria * Scholarships apply to tuition costs, not fees or other expenses. Awards are disbursed each term.
- Scholarships funded or administered directly through WGU cannot be combined with the WGU employee tuition discount.
Review all eligibility details on WGU’s scholarship website before applying.
How to Apply for WGU Scholarships: An Even More Affordable Option
All WGU scholarships use the same application form accessed through your myWGU student portal. The deadline is the 15th of each month to qualify for scholarships starting the following month.
Follow these steps to submit your scholarship application:
1. Log into myWGU and access the scholarship app under Financial Services.
You can start an application before formally enrolling but must have an active program status.
2. Complete the online form detailing your background, academics, professional profile and financial position.
Share your story and make a compelling case for support in the essays. Provide details showing your dedication, work ethic and perseverance.
3. Submit transcripts and up to 3 recommendation letters to boost your profile.
Optional but recommended letters highlight strengths from people who know your talents.
4. Sign the scholarship terms and conditions of award.
Carefully review expectations around academic performance, enrollment consistency and more if selected.
The earlier you apply each month the better, as awards are limited and the application pool is competitive. You will be notified if selected with next steps to finalize award dispersal.
WGU Scholarship Details: Selection Criteria
WGU scholarships are competitive and evaluated holistically based on a candidate’s:
- Academic Merit: Past academic performance representing preparedness for rigorous WGU curriculum
- Work Experience: Professional background tied to your field of study
- Leadership & Service: Extracurricular/volunteer activities illustrating well-roundedness
- Persistence & Motivation: Essays conveying your commitment to degree completion
- Financial Need: Funding to close the gap between existing resources and program costs
Put effort into all application components to present a strong, well-balanced profile and stand out from the applicant pool.
Scholarship Allocation and Financial Aid
Once awarded, the scholarship amount is credited to your account at a rate determined by WGU and detailed in the scholarship terms. These monies are distributed per six-month term, and in some cases, the scholarships are renewable.
It’s important to note that a student can only be awarded one scholarship, unless otherwise noted, and the awarding of scholarships is based on various factors including, but not limited to, current competency and the details you enter in your application.
Additional Financial Support and Considerations
In addition to scholarships, students at WGU may be eligible for other forms of financial aid, such as Pell grants and subsidized loans. These aids can further reduce the financial barriers to education, making it even more affordable.
WGU also offers an employee discount for those who are working while pursuing their degree, which adds another layer of financial support. Understanding these additional supports is crucial for students who are keen to manage their education costs effectively.
The Road to Enrollment: From Application to Start Date
For those who have successfully applied and been awarded a scholarship, the next step is to prepare for the program start date. WGU launches new degree programs every month, offering flexibility for students to start when it suits them best. Being aware of the degree start date is essential for planning your study schedule and making the most of the scholarship awarded.
FAQs
Does WGU give out scholarships?
Yes, WGU offers a variety of scholarships to eligible students.
How long does it take to hear back about WGU scholarships?
Scholarship application deadlines vary depending on the specific scholarship. Typically, applicants can expect to receive a decision within 4-6 weeks of submitting their application.
Can I get financial aid for WGU?
Yes, WGU students can access various forms of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and student loans.
Is WGU tuition free?
No, WGU tuition is not free. However, WGU’s tuition rates are significantly lower than those of traditional brick-and-mortar institutions, making it an affordable option for working adults.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, WGU’s scholarships are a gateway to educational success, providing essential financial support to a wide range of students, including those pursuing degree programs at the Leavitt School of Health or various other fields.
By understanding the terms and conditions, adhering to the WGU student handbook, and navigating the application process, you can take full advantage of these opportunities. Remember, a WGU scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s an investment in your future, a step towards achieving your academic and career goals.
Whether you’re a new student embarking on your journey or a returning graduate looking to advance further, WGU’s scholarships stand ready to assist you, every step of the way. So, take that first step, apply for admission, and embrace the world of opportunities that WGU scholarships offer. Your dream of earning a degree, whether it be a bachelor’s, M.S., or even through the competitive BSN-to-MSN program, is within reach. Remember, every great journey begins with a single step – start yours today!
