WGU accesses millions in emergency aid
INDIANAPOLIS (Inside INdiana Business) — Western Governors University has set aside $10 million in emergency funding to help new and current students experiencing financial hardships as a result of COVID-19. The online university is also working to raise another $10 million in matching donations.
“WGU students, most of whom are learning while they care for families and fulfill job responsibilities—and many of them on the COVID-19 frontlines—need and deserve our help and support,” said WGU President Scott Pulsipher. “Our hope is that this emergency aid will lessen their burden as they continue on their academic journeys.”
The school says 70% of WGU’s students come from underserved populations, including low-income earners. The emergency aid fund would help with several financial disruptions:
- Non-tuition emergency aid – Help with rent, groceries, medical bills, internet and other essential needs.
- Enhanced Financial support – Hardship scholarships for current students needing tuition help.
- Funding for interrupted terms – Support for current eligible students, including those who cannot finish in-person teaching and clinical rotations
- Bright Future Scholarships – 1,000 need-based scholarships of up to $3,000 for each for enrolling students or newly enrolled since March 1
- Extra financial support – Support for restructured payment plans or tuition and fee credits for some eligible students.
To make a matching contribution, click here. Information on how to apply for aid can be found here.