State-Based Financial Aid
In addition to federal grants and loans, you may be eligible for financial aid from your state. State grant programs typically have strict application deadlines for funding eligibility. In many cases, completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step for state grant applications.
The website links below can be used to provide further information or to assist with more detailed or complex inquiries. If you do not see a state listed, WGU may not be approved to participate in that state's grant programs at this time.
The WGU Financial Aid Office can answer more specific questions about your personal situation once you have completed the FAFSA. The Financial Aid Office can be reached by email at financialservices@wgu.edu or by calling 1-877-435-7948. Hours of operation are weekdays 7 am to 7 pm (MT).
Arizona
Arizona Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (AzLEAP)
The AzLEAP program establishes a state and institutional partnership to provide student financial assistance in the form of need-based grants to low-income, undergraduate, Arizona resident students who have demonstrated substantial financial need, enabling students to attend postsecondary institutions in the State of Arizona.
The grant is awarded by each participating institution. The maximum AzLEAP award at WGU is $1,000 for the academic year.
Please visit the state website for eligibility criteria. WGU Financial Aid determines eligible students based on FAFSA results. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Spouses and Dependents of Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers Tuition Scholarship
Spouses and dependents of law enforcement and correctional officers enrolled in an eligible career and technical education district, community college, university or private postsecondary educational institution are eligible for a scholarship that covers tuition and fees on a first-come, first-served basis. This funding is limited. WGU is an eligible institution. The scholarship will be available beginning in fall 2024. The application process is open now. Please visit the scholarship website for specific eligibility information.
California
Golden State Teacher Grant Program
The Golden State Teacher Grant Program (GSTG) awards up to $10,000 to WGU students currently enrolled in a professional preparation program approved by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) and working towards earning their preliminary teaching or pupil personnel services credential. Students must complete their program and obtain their credential within 6 years from the first distribution of GSTG Funds and commit to work at a California State Preschool Program (CSPP) or eligible priority school for 4 years within 8 years of completing their program. WGU has been added to the GSTG application as of March 13th, 2024 with a 23-24 deadline of April 1st, 2024. The 24-25 GSTG application is also open with an April 1st, 2025 deadline. Students can view eligibility requirements and apply https://gstg.csac.ca.gov/ here.
Idaho
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship
Recognizing the need for a well-educated workforce, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter and the Idaho Legislature established the Opportunity Scholarship to remove barriers to higher education and prepare college/university graduates to enter the workforce. The Opportunity Scholarship awards eligible applicants up to $3,500 per academic year and is renewable for up to four years.
The scholarship funds are available per school year. Recipients must renew each year and are eligible to receive the scholarship for a maximum of four years.
Please visit the state websites for eligibility criteria. Students must apply and complete a FAFSA. Idaho selects and notifies eligible students. WGU must verify students resident status before awarding. Students can view eligibility requirements and apply at https://boardofed.idaho.gov/scholarships/
Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners
The scholarship funds are available per school year; recipients must renew each year and are eligible to receive the scholarship for a maximum of four years. Students must apply and complete a FAFSA. Idaho selects and notifies eligible students. WGU must verify students resident status before awarding. Students can view eligibility requirements and apply at https://boardofed.idaho.gov/scholarships/
GEAR UP Idaho Scholarship-2
The scholarship funds are intended for students less than 22 years old at time they receive their first scholarship award. Students must apply and complete a FAFSA. Idaho selects and notifies eligible students. WGU must verify students resident status before awarding. Students can view eligibility requirements and apply at https://boardofed.idaho.gov/scholarships/
Indiana
Frank O'Bannon Grant
The Frank O'Bannon Grant includes both the Higher Education Award and the Freedom of Choice Award. The grant is designed to provide access for Hoosier students to attend eligible public, private, and proprietary postsecondary institutions. Eligibility for the grant is based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. The grant may be used toward tuition and regularly assessed fees. Indiana determines eligibility based on FAFSA results. Indiana will notify the students of award eligibility and amount. Student may view there award status and amount by logging onto Indiana’s ScholarTrack site: ScholarTrack.IN.gov
21st Century Scholarship
The 21st Century Scholarship is for students enrolled in the 7th or 8th grade at an Indiana public or private school accredited by the Indiana Department of Education. Student must be a member of a family that meets the income eligibility guidelines. Student may enroll from the beginning of 7th grade until June 30th of the 8th grade year. Indiana determines eligibility based on application and FAFSA. Students must complete annual program requirements to maintain eligibility: https://learnmoreindiana.org/scholars/students/college/
Child of Disabled Veterans
The Tuition and Fee Exemption for Children of Disabled Veterans provides up to 100% of tuition and regularly assessed fees for up to 124 semester credit-hours at Indiana public colleges and universities at the undergraduate resident tuition rate. Students must complete a one-time application prior to the age of 33. An annual FAFSA must also be completed. You may find the requirements and application at ScholarTrack.IN.gov
William A. Crawford Minority Teacher Scholarship
The Commission offers scholarships for minority students (defined as Black and Hispanic individuals) planning to teach in an accredited school in Indiana upon graduation. Student must agree in writing to apply for a teaching position in Indiana and, if hired, teach in Indiana for at least three years.
To renew the Scholarship for subsequent academic years, a minority student (who qualified for the scholarship initially) must reapply for the scholarship each year and maintain the cumulative grade point average (GPA) required for admission to the institution’s school of education or at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent if the school does not require a minimum GPA. Student must submit an application and complete a FAFSA. Indiana determines eligibility and WGU must approve application. Students may view requirements and apply at https://ScholarTrack.che.in.gov/Portal/#/application/333
Indiana National Guard Supplemental Grant
Through a partnership with the Indiana National Guard, the Commission guarantees 100% of tuition and regularly assessed fees for eligible members of the Indiana Air and Army National Guard. Students can attend either full-time or part-time and receive the National Guard Tuition Supplement Grant (NGSG). Student must contact their unit commander for details on how to apply and must be recertified each semester. Must also complete FAFSA.
Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship
The Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarship provides 200 high-achieving high school and college students interested in pursuing a career in education the opportunity to earn a renewable scholarship of up to $7,500 each year for four academic years. In exchange, students agree to teach for five years at an eligible Indiana school or repay the corresponding, prorated amount of the scholarship. Student must submit an application and complete a FAFSA. Indiana determines eligibility. Students may review the requirements and apply at https://www.in.gov/che/files/2021-22_NextGen_Application-Procedures-2.pdf
Adult Student Grant
The Adult Student Grant is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of working adults starting or completing an associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or certificates by providing a $2,000 grant. The grant may be used toward tuition and regularly assessed fees. Students must submit an application and FASFA must be completed prior to submitting application. Indiana determines eligibility. Student may apply at https://ScholarTrack.che.in.gov/Portal/#/a/335.
Indiana Student Teaching Scholarship for High-Needs Fields
Stipend for students planning to teach in a "high-need" field. The Commission defines “high-need” as special education or middle or high school level math or science.
The maximum amount a student may receive is up to $4,000. The amount of the scholarship may vary year-to-year based on the amount of the appropriation and the number of applicants. Stipends will be awarded directly to students. This stipend is for students entering their student teaching term only. Students must submit an application and complete a FAFSA. Indiana determines eligibility and WGU must approve the application. Students may review the requirements, filing deadline, and apply at https://scholartrack.che.in.gov/Portal/#/application/341
Earline S. Rogers Student Teaching Scholarship for Minorities
Stipend for minority students (defined as Black and Hispanic individuals) who will participate in student teaching or a school administration internship as part of the students' degree requirements. Priority will be given to student teaching applicants.
The maximum amount a student may receive is up to $4,000. The amount of the scholarship may vary year-to-year based on the amount of the appropriation and the number of applicants. In determining the stipend amount, priority will be given to applicants entering student teaching over applicants entering an administrative internship. Stipends will be awarded directly to students. This stipend is for students entering their student teaching term only. Students must submit an application and complete a FAFSA. Indiana determines eligibility and WGU must approve the application. Students may review the requirements, filing deadline, and apply at https://ScholarTrack.che.in.gov/Portal/#/application/336
Mitch Daniels Early Graduation Scholarship
The Mitch Daniels Early Graduation Scholarship is a one-time, $4,000 scholarship for students who graduate at least one year early from a publicly supported Indiana high school. To claim this scholarship, students must enroll at an eligible Indiana institution no later than the fall semester in the academic year immediately following the year they graduate high school. Students must submit an application and FAFSA must be completed. Indiana determines eligibility. Students may view requirements, filing deadline and submit application at https://ScholarTrack.che.in.gov/Portal/#/application/356
Iowa
Future Ready Grant -- Coming Soon
This new grant is intended for adult learners at least 25 years old to help fill high-need jobs in the state. More information on the application process and next steps will be forthcoming. Iowa College Aid requires post-secondary institutions to post Iowa's student complaint process link: https://iowacollegeaid.gov/StudentComplaintForm; or by phone 1-877-272-4456.
Kansas
Kansas Adult Learner Grant
This service obligation scholarship program was enacted to assist adult residents of Kansas in the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in certain high-demand fields. In exchange for receiving grant funding, the recipient agrees to graduate from their degree program within 48 months of accepting the grant and then commence living and working in the state of Kansas for two consecutive years. Students need to be at least 25 years of age and a Kansas resident. Please visit the grant website for full eligibility criteria. Interested students should complete the Kansas Adult Learner Grant application online at sfa.kansasregents.org (available late March 2024).
Missouri
Kansas City Scholars Adult Learner Scholarship
This scholarship is intended for students age 24 and up (as of August 31, 2022) who live in one of the six eligible counties (Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson. Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte). Low- to modest-income. KC Scholars determines eligibility. If eligible, KC Scholars will notify you.
Access Missouri
Access Missouri is a need-based program designed to be simple to understand, provide predictable, portable awards, and increase access to your school of choice. Your financial eligibility is determined by your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) as calculated through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). WGU Financial Aid determine eligibility. If eligible, WGU financial aid will notify you.
Note: Beginning with the 2024-25 Aid Year the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be known as the Student Aid Index (SAI)
Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant
The Fast Track Workforce Incentive Grant is a financial aid program for adults 25 years or older. This grant addresses workforce needs by helping adults pursue a certificate, degree, or industry-recognized credential in an area designated as high need. Grant recipients must have been a Missouri resident two years prior to receiving the grant. Missouri Department of Higher Education determines grant eligibility. If eligible, Missouri Department of Higher Education will notify you.
Nebraska
The State of Nebraska provides the Nebraska Opportunity Grant (NOG) – formerly the Nebraska State Grant – to students who meet certain qualifications. Qualifications include being a Nebraska resident, attending an eligible Nebraska postsecondary institution, and having a minimum EFC as determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). WGU Financial Aid determines eligible students based on FAFSA results. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Note: Beginning with the 2024-25 Aid Year the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be known as the Student Aid Index (SAI)
Nevada
Teach Nevada Scholarship
In partnership with the Nevada Legislature and the Nevada Department of Education, WGU Nevada received funding as part of the Teach Nevada Scholarship Program—a statewide initiative that provides scholarships to new students pursuing initial teacher licensure through state-approved universities and colleges. WGU Nevada will award scholarships to new students who intend to obtain a bachelor's degree and license to teach in Nevada. The WGU Scholarships team selects eligible students and you will be notified if you are selected.
North Carolina
North Carolina Tuition Assistance Program
This is a tuition reimbursement program for actively drilling Army & Air Guard members of North Carolina. Members must have a minimum obligation of two years remaining as a member of the North Carolina National Guard from the time of the application; or extend membership for an additional two years of more from the time of the application. Please click the program link to apply.
Ohio
Ohio College Opportunity Grant
The Ohio Department of Higher Education administers the Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) program, which provides grant money to Ohio residents who demonstrate the highest levels of financial need (as determined by the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid [FAFSA] that should be completed) who are enrolled at Ohio public colleges or universities, Ohio private, non-profit colleges or universities, and Ohio private, for-profit institutions.
Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program
The Nurse Education Assistance Loan Program (NEALP) provides financial assistance to Ohio students enrolled for at least half-time study (or accepted for enrollment) in an approved Ohio nurse education program. NEALP provides funding for nurses who intend to serve as instructors or students who intend to serve as nurses after graduation. The Ohio Department of Higher Education selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Ohio War Orphans Scholarship
The Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship Program awards tuition assistance to the children of deceased or severely disabled Ohio veterans who served in the armed forces during a period of declared war or conflict. The application deadline is May 15th of every year. The deadline for the 2023-2024 academic year is May 15, 2023. A complete application MUST be received or postmarked by May 15th in order to be considered for the scholarship for the 2023-2024 academic year. Any applications postmarked after May 15, 2023 will be considered for the 2024-2025 academic year. The Ohio Department of Higher Education selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Ohio National Guard Scholarship Program
APPLICATION PROCESS: Log in to the new Ohio National Guard Scholarship Website at https://ongsp.ohio.gov. (You must use a Common Access Card (CAC) card to register and log on to the ONGSP Website. Ensure you have a functioning CAC reader for your home computer or access to a government computer to use the ONGSP Website.)
All current Ohio National Guard Members must initiate their profile on the ONGSP website by clicking the red Register button (in the top right corner of the ONGSP.Ohio.gov home page)
Once you have updated your profile information, you may proceed to APPLY for the current term by clicking the APPLY NOW link. Deadlines are as follows:
- Fall Semester/Quarter: July 1
- Spring Semester/Winter Quarter: November 1
- Spring Quarter: February 1
- Summer Semester/Quarter: April 1
Unit leadership is the approval authority for applications. If you are approved, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Choose Ohio First Scholarship
The Choose Ohio First Scholarship is designed to significantly strengthen Ohio’s competitiveness within STEM disciplines and STEM education.
Choose Ohio First awards competitive scholarship funding to Ohio’s colleges and universities to support undergraduate and qualifying graduate students in innovative academic programs. Designated Choose Ohio First programs are:
- Integrated with regional economies
- Meeting statewide educational needs
- Facilitating the completion of baccalaureate degrees in cost effective manners
- Recruiting underrepresented STEM student groups including women and students of color
WGU School of Technology selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
The State of Ohio further strengthened its commitment to assisting students in attaining a degree or credential through the establishment of the Second Chance Grant. The objectives of the Second Chance Grant are to reduce financial barriers preventing Ohioans with some college credit but no bachelor’s degree from returning to higher education and to increase the number of Ohioans with a degree or credential. The Second Chance Grant provides financial assistance in the form of $2,000 grants to eligible students re-enrolling at a qualifying institution in order to obtain a degree or credential. Second Chance Grants are applied against the student’s cost of attendance (COA) after all need-based federal and state grants have been applied. Grants are awarded on a first-come first-serve basis. Whether you are planning to build on your associate degree or previous coursework from any state institution in Ohio, WGU Ohio can help you finish.
Tennessee
Tennessee Future Teacher Scholarship
The Tennessee Future Teacher Scholarship is a loan-scholarship program intended to encourage exemplary students to enter the teaching field in Tennessee. Participation is limited to college juniors and seniors admitted to an approved educator preparation program (EPP) in a Tennessee college or university. Students must complete the scholarship application and email the completed application to cindy.runnels@tn.gov by September 1st for consideration. In addition, recipients must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for each academic year.
Tennessee Student Assistance Award
The Tennessee Student Assistance Award Program (TSAA) was established to provide nonrepayable financial assistance to financially needy undergraduate students who are residents of Tennessee. Applicants must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment, at least half time, at a public or an eligible non-public postsecondary institution in Tennessee. The TSAA is a state-funded grant program and includes funds from the Tennessee Education Lottery. The Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Tennessee State Loan Repayment Program
The Tennessee State Loan Repayment Program (TSLRP) provides educational loan repayment to qualified primary care practitioners in exchange for an initial 2-year service obligation to practice full-time or part-time at an ambulatory public, non-profit or private non-profit primary care site located in a federally designated Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). TSLRP funds can apply to federal and private qualifying educational loans that are not consolidated or combined with personal loans.
Tennessee Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program
The Tennessee General Assembly established the Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program Act in 2006. The Graduate Nursing Loan Forgiveness Program is intended for Tennessee registered nurses who are candidates for master’s and post-master’s degrees in nursing education to teach nursing at a Tennessee postsecondary institution. The scholarship may be awarded to graduate students attending eligible Tennessee postsecondary institutions. The program is administered by the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC). The scholarship is renewable three times for a maximum of four (4) academic years, or eight (8) semesters. The award is based on private and state funding. Application process 1/1/24 – 3/1/24 for the 24-25 aid year.
Texas
Texas Math and Science Scholars Loan Repayment Program
The Texas Math and Science Scholars Loan Repayment Program is a student loan repayment program for Texas teachers who demonstrated high academic achievement as math or science majors to teach math or science for at least four years in Title I public schools in Texas. Additional eligibility criteria are on the program’s webpage.
Utah
- TH Bell
The Terrel H. Bell Education Scholarship Program aims to recruit first-generation students into teaching, encourage outstanding students to work in high-need fields, and recognize teaching as a critically important career in Utah. The scholarship can be used at public or private higher education institutions in Utah that offer approved programs. T.H. Bell Scholarships may be for up to the cost of resident tuition, fees, and books, and may be received for up to four consecutive years. WGU Financial Aid selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
- Higher Education Success Stipend
The Higher Education Success Stipend Program is a grant available to undergraduate students with financial need who are studying at a Utah public or private non-profit college, university, or technical college. WGU Financial Aid determines eligible students based on FAFSA results. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you. - Adult Learners Grant
The Adult Learner Grant is available for undergraduate students aged 26 or older who meet financial need and other eligibility requirements. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you. - Veteran’s Tuition Gap Program
The Veterans Tuition Gap Program (VeT Gap) is a State supplement grant to provide assistance that can cover tuition, fees, and books for veterans who are attending institutions of higher education in Utah and whose benefits under the federal program have been exhausted or are not available. This program is only available to higher education institutions that grant baccalaureate degrees.
Utah Opportunity Scholarship
New legislation passed during the 2021 session created a simplified, statewide, achievement-based scholarship—the Opportunity Scholarship. The Opportunity Scholarship will be available to students beginning with the high school graduating class of 2022. The Utah System of Higher Education selects eligible students. If you are selected, WGU Financial Aid will notify you.
Vermont
Vermont State Grant
If you're a Vermont resident, you may be eligible to apply for 1 of these 3 need-based grants:
- Vermont Incentive Grant—for Vermont residents enrolled or planning to enroll full-time (as defined by your school)
- Vermont Part-Time Grant—for Vermont residents enrolled or planning to enroll part-time (as defined by your school)
- Advancement Grant (previously the Vermont Non-Degree Grant)—for Vermont residents enrolled or planning to enroll in a non-degree course or training program that will enhance job skills to improve your ability to get a job or that gives you an introduction to college courses
Students must submit an application the first year of school and submit annual FAFSA. Eligibility is determined by FAFSA for succeeding years. Students may find grant information and apply at https://www.vsac.org/pay/applying-online-financial-aid/vermont-grants.
Washington
Washington College Grant
Washington College Grant (WCG) is one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country. Recent high school graduates and working-age adults from many low- and middle-income families can qualify to receive money for college or career training. WCG is available to eligible Washington residents, including undocumented students. An eligible student from a family of four making around $56,000 or less per year would receive a full award. Partial grants are available for families making up to the state’s median family income, around $102,000 per year. WGU Financial Aid determines eligibility for first-time undergraduate students who have completed a FAFSA or WASFA Application. If potentially eligible, WGU Financial Aid will notify you of next steps via email at the end of the month in which your term starts.
Washington College Bound Scholarship
The College Bound Scholarship is an early commitment of state financial aid to eligible students who apply in middle school and meet the pledge requirements. The College Bound Scholarship covers average tuition at public college rates, some fees, and a small book allowance at over 65 colleges, universities, and technical schools in Washington. This page contains information for students, families, counselors, and anyone interested in the College Bound Scholarship. WGU Financial Aid determines eligibility. If potentially eligible, WGU Financial Aid will notify you of next steps via email at the end of the month in which your term starts.
Washington National Guard Postsecondary Educational Grant
The National Guard Grant helps eligible, actively participating members of the Washington National Guard get an undergraduate degree or certificate. The program provides education opportunities to qualified service members and serves as an incentive to extend their National Guard service.
Participants commit to serving one year in the Washington National Guard in exchange for each year of grant funding. Combined with state and federal aid, grants can cover tuition and fees at approved colleges in Washington, as well as a portion of books and materials.
Those interested are encouraged to reach out to their education office or recruiter for more information on good standing with the Washington National Guard. The Washington National Guard may select applicants to meet certain recruitment needs.
The current grant was created in 2020, replacing a prior scholarship for Guard members. Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) determines eligibility. If eligible, WSAC will notify you.
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship
The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship helps low- and middle-income Washington students earn degrees, certificates or apprenticeships in high-demand trade, health care or STEM fields and launch careers in Washington state. Based upon a student’s FAFSA or WASFA Application, Washington state determines eligibility for students pursing a bachelor’s degree in a S.T.E.M program (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math Programs, or health care program). If eligible, the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) will notify you.
Washington Teacher Program Grants
- Washington Teacher Shortage Conditional Grant
The Teacher Shortage Conditional Scholarship is designed to provide financial aid to encourage persons to become teachers and to retain these teachers in shortage areas. The program provides funding of up to $8,000 per year for up to four years, toward earning a Washington Residency Teacher Certificate. Award amounts may vary depending upon financial need and funds available. Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) determines eligibility. If eligible, WSAC will notify you. - Washington Student Teaching Grant
The intent of the grant is to provide additional funds to student teachers at Title I public common schools in Washington. This is a grant that does not require a service obligation or promissory note. Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) determines eligibility. If eligible, WSAC will notify you.
