Western Union Global Scholars Program 2026: Empowering International Students
About the Western Union Foundation
The Western Union Foundation is a philanthropic arm of Western Union, dedicated to empowering disadvantaged and displaced communities through access to education and economic opportunity. Since its inception, the Foundation has worked globally to fund initiatives that support job readiness, skill development, and entrepreneurship—especially among youth and migrants.
The Western Union Foundation Global Scholars Program, in partnership with the Institute of International Education (IIE), offers a transformative opportunity for international students pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM, business, or entrepreneurship fields. Established in 2017, this initiative has supported over 550 students from more than 100 countries, providing them with the financial assistance needed to complete their education and achieve their academic and professional aspirations.
Scholarship Overview
- Award Amount: USD $2,500
- Usage: Tuition and school fees for the upcoming academic term
- Renewability: Non-renewable
- Application Deadline: June 16, 2025
- Nomination Deadline: May 15, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Western Union Global Scholars Program, applicants must:
- Student Status: Be an international student (non-citizen or permanent resident)
- Academic Year: Be enrolled in the final or penultimate year of a full-time undergraduate (Bachelor’s) degree program
- Institution: Study at an accredited post-secondary institution in one of the following countries: Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom, or the United States
- Financial Need: Demonstrate financial need
- Academic Standing: Maintain good academic standing
- Field of Study: Pursue a degree in STEM, business, or entrepreneurship
- Nomination: Be nominated by a representative from their higher education institution.
Nominations are a critical component of the application process. Each accredited institution may nominate up to five students. Once nominated, students will receive an invitation from IIE to submit a complete application.
Application Process
- Institutional Nomination: Institutions nominate eligible students by the deadline of May 15, 2025.
- Student Application: Nominated students must submit their applications by June 16, 2025.
- Selection Criteria: Applications are evaluated based on academic performance, financial need, and commitment to the chosen field of study.
- Notification: Awardees will be notified in July 2025.
Usage of Scholarship Funds
The scholarship funds are intended to cover tuition and school fees for the academic term immediately following the award. Please note that the funds cannot be used for room and board, school supplies, or other living expenses.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Perseverance: Demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges.
- Aspiration: Clear academic and career goals.
- Community Engagement: Involvement in community service or leadership activities.
- Academic Excellence: Strong academic record and achievements.
- Financial Need: Ability to demonstrate financial constraints hindering educational pursuits.
Important Notes
- Non-Renewable: The scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable.
- Eligible Expenses: Funds can only be used for tuition and school fees during the academic term immediately following the scholarship award.
- Ineligible Expenses: Funds cannot be used for room and board, school supplies, travel expenses, or other living costs.
- Application Language: All applications must be submitted in English.
Contact Information
For more details or assistance with the application process, please visit the Western Union Foundation website.
Conclusion
The Western Union Global Scholars Program is more than just a financial award; it is a stepping stone toward achieving academic and professional goals. By supporting students in their pursuit of higher education, the program contributes to the development of future leaders in STEM, business, and entrepreneurship fields. Eligible students are encouraged to engage with their institutions and apply for this invaluable opportunity.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
