Doris Buffett Independence Scholar Grant

About this scholarship

The Doris Buffett Independence Scholar Grant helps survivors of intimate partner abuse pursue education that leads to stable employment and financial independence. Awards range from $1,000 to $2,500 per semester or quarter; master’s-level awards average $1,500. Full-time attendance is not required, but enrollment intensity affects the award. New applicants must live in the United States or a U.S. territory, be U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents, and have been physically separated from the abusive partner for at least one year but no more than ten years. They must also have applied to or been accepted into an accredited U.S. course of study, demonstrate critical financial need based on Student Aid Index and adjusted gross income, and present a practical career plan. WISP gives preference to returning students, single parents with young children, first-time undergraduate degree seekers, and vocational or technical students. The online application collects contact and financial information, education history and goals, and short narrative responses. Required attachments include the FAFSA Student Aid Index, the first two pages of the applicant’s tax return, an academic plan through graduation, one professional recommendation form from an approved helping professional, and one personal recommendation letter. The current first-time application is open. Its fall cycle runs August 1 through October 1, 2026, with decisions beginning December 31.

Eligibility

• Be a survivor of intimate partner abuse living in the United States or a U.S. territory
• Be physically separated from the abusive partner for at least one year but no more than ten years
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident
• Have applied to or been accepted into an accredited course of study at a U.S. institution
• Demonstrate critical financial need through Student Aid Index and adjusted gross income
• Have a definite career plan connected to the proposed education or training
• Submit the FAFSA SAI, tax-return pages, and an academic plan through graduation
• Provide one approved professional recommendation and one personal recommendation
• Submit the complete first-time application by October 1, 2026