Western Governors University (WGU) is one of America’s most recognized online, nonprofit universities—offering affordable, flexible degree programs designed for working adults. A critical part of WGU’s commitment to accessibility and success is its wide range of scholarships and financial aid options, tailored to reduce the cost of higher education and help students graduate with less debt.
If you’re looking to pursue a career-boosting online degree without breaking the bank, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Western Governors University scholarships, including types, eligibility, application steps, and expert tips.
Why Study at Western Governors University?
WGU was founded in 1997 by 19 U.S. governors with a mission to expand access to quality education through competency-based learning. Today, WGU serves over 130,000 students across the U.S. and offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in high-demand fields like:
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Business
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IT and cybersecurity
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Education
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Healthcare and nursing
As a fully online university, WGU offers students unmatched flexibility, affordable tuition, and one-on-one faculty mentorship—all while maintaining accreditation and industry relevance.
Affordability at the Core
One of WGU’s biggest advantages is low tuition. On average, students pay:
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$3,625 per six-month term for most undergraduate programs
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Around $4,000–$5,500 per term for graduate and nursing programs
This flat-rate pricing means you can take as many courses as you want per term without paying more—ideal for motivated learners.
But even with low tuition, many students benefit from WGU scholarships to make their education even more affordable.
Overview of Western Governors University Scholarships
WGU offers a variety of scholarships aimed at different types of students—from first-time undergrads and working parents to military veterans and career switchers. Scholarships typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, applied as tuition credits over multiple terms.
Key scholarship categories include:
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Academic Excellence
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Need-Based Support
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Career Advancement
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Military & Veterans
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Special Populations (e.g. single parents, rural students, etc.)
Most Popular WGU Scholarships
WGU Excellence Scholarship
Value: Up to $2,500
Eligibility: Students with strong academic records, leadership traits, or career goals
Applies to: Any undergraduate or graduate degree
Renewal: Divided over 4–5 terms
This is one of WGU’s most applied-for scholarships and serves high-achieving students across all disciplines.
Back to School Scholarship
Value: Up to $2,500
For: Adult learners returning to education after a break
Focus: Supporting working adults who are balancing family, jobs, and study
Ideal for those starting a new chapter or finishing a degree they once paused.
WGU Cybersecurity Scholarship
Value: Up to $5,000
Eligibility: Students enrolled in cybersecurity or information assurance programs
Special Requirement: Interest or background in IT security
With the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, WGU supports new talent entering this high-paying field.
WGU Military Appreciation Scholarship
Value: Up to $2,500
Who Can Apply: Active-duty military, veterans, spouses, and dependents
Benefit: Acknowledges service and supports transition to civilian careers
This scholarship is a core part of WGU’s Military Support Initiative.
WGU Healthcare Heroes Scholarship
Value: Up to $5,000
Who’s Eligible: Current or aspiring healthcare professionals, especially in nursing or health informatics
Purpose: Recognizes the contribution of healthcare workers during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic
Other Niche and Demographic-Based Scholarships
WGU regularly updates its scholarship offerings to reflect student needs and social causes. Other notable awards include:
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Women in Tech Scholarship
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Educators for Tomorrow Scholarship
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Rural Healthcare Scholarship
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Single Parent Scholarship
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WGU Employee Partners Scholarship (for employees of WGU’s corporate and healthcare partners)
These are often offered with rolling deadlines throughout the year.
How to Apply for WGU Scholarships
WGU’s scholarship process is streamlined and takes place online.
Step 1: Apply for Admission to WGU
You must first be accepted to a WGU degree program before your scholarship can be awarded. There’s no separate fee for scholarship consideration.
Step 2: Create a Scholarship Account
Once you’ve applied, visit the WGU Scholarship Portal and create a profile.
Step 3: Submit the General Application
You’ll fill out one general form that considers you for multiple scholarships. Details typically requested:
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Resume or work history
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Financial need explanation
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Personal statement (why you deserve a scholarship)
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References (optional for some awards)
Step 4: Match with Available Scholarships
After submitting your application, WGU’s system will automatically match you with scholarships you qualify for.
Step 5: Await Notification
WGU typically responds within 2–3 weeks, depending on volume. Scholarships are awarded before the start of your term and applied directly to your student account.
Note: Most scholarships at WGU are renewable across multiple terms based on academic progress and full-time enrollment.
Key Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility varies by scholarship, but most WGU scholarships share these basic requirements:
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Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
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Must have applied to a WGU program
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Demonstrate academic promise or professional experience
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Demonstrate financial need (not always required but helpful)
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Be enrolled full-time (12 competency units per term or more)
WGU does not require standardized tests (SAT/ACT) or a high GPA for most scholarships, making it very accessible.
Financial Aid and FAFSA at WGU
In addition to scholarships, WGU encourages all students to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This may unlock:
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Pell Grants (for low-income students)
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Federal Student Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
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Additional institutional aid
WGU’s federal school code is 033394.
Combining scholarships and financial aid can significantly reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket costs.
Western Governors University Grants and Tuition Assistance
Although WGU doesn’t offer traditional grants, it partners with state agencies, workforce boards, and employers to provide tuition assistance.
Examples:
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Amazon Career Choice – WGU is a listed provider
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Guild Education partners (Walmart, Chipotle, etc.)
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Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs
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Veterans Affairs Education Benefits
These partnerships often come with tuition support, textbooks, and mentorship.
Tips for Winning a WGU Scholarship
Want to increase your odds of receiving aid? Here are proven strategies:
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Apply early – WGU awards scholarships on a rolling basis
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Tell your story – Personalize your essay to show resilience, goals, and passion
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Highlight work experience – Especially for career-change or industry-specific awards
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Maintain momentum – Keep your admissions and financial aid files updated
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Be authentic – Be honest about your challenges and how a WGU degree fits your plan
Remember: WGU isn’t just looking for perfect students. They’re looking for motivated, goal-oriented individuals who will benefit from their degree programs.
Can International Students Get Scholarships at WGU?
Currently, WGU only accepts U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. If you are an international student living outside the U.S., you will not qualify for admission or scholarship.
If you are a permanent resident, green card holder, or refugee with valid status, you can apply and will be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Conclusion
Western Governors University scholarships are a powerful tool to make affordable, flexible, online education even more accessible. With dozens of options—from military support to STEM and healthcare programs—WGU supports students from all walks of life.
Whether you’re returning to school, switching careers, or accelerating your current one, a scholarship from WGU could be the key to unlocking your future.
Be proactive, apply early, and tell your story. With the right scholarship and mindset, a WGU degree can take you further than you ever imagined.