Western Union - WU Scholars

The Western Union Foundation continues to invest in educational attainment for high-potential, in-need students with nearly $500,000 in scholarship funding this year. Through the belief that education is a key pathway to success, the Foundation is providing scholarships to 52 students studying at 30 universities spanning 9 countries during the 2022-2023 school year.

The Foundation launched the Western Union Scholars program in 2017 to provide funding to students struggling to complete their final years of college due to financial constraints. Most Western Union Scholars are international students pursuing degrees while balancing other demands – such as working multiple jobs and living abroad without a local family support system. Many applicants shared that without the Western Union Scholarship, they didn’t believe they would be able to remain in school.

“Last year when I was halfway through my bachelor’s degree it became very challenging to save enough to pay for school,” said Raja, 2022-2023 scholarship recipient. “I applied for work authorization due to economic hardship and I got approved. But I still couldn’t earn enough. I can’t describe how great it felt when I was nominated for the Western Union Scholarship. I’ve always wanted to learn mechanical engineering and I feel I am living my best life when I am studying and getting good grades. This contribution to my education will allow me to continue focusing on my studies.”

Western Union Scholars are selected based on their academic standing, personal goals, and level of financial need. The program includes two different cohorts:

1. Western Union Global Scholars supports international students from low-income communities studying in Australia, Canada, Europe, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom – some of the world’s leading destinations for international scholars.
2. Project Finish Line supports students who identify as Black, indigenous or a person of color, who are studying in STEM and business fields at accredited post-secondary higher education institutions across the United States, including many historically Black colleges and universities

“The caliber of students nominated for this cohort of Western Union Scholars was incredible,” said Western Union Foundation Executive Director Lauren Bell. “There were so many inspiring students who have an unwavering drive to succeed, despite facing many financial hurdles. We are proud to provide scholarships to hard-working and determined students so they can complete their post-secondary education and thrive in today’s workforce.”

The Foundation works with the Institute for International Education to accept nominations, select awardees, and distribute the scholarships. Interested students must be nominated by a representative from their higher education institution.

For any further questions, please email WUFoundation@iie.org.