Wells Mountain Initiative Scholars Program

About this scholarship

The Wells Mountain Initiative Scholars Program supports exceptional, community-focused students facing significant financial barriers to university education. The official WMI prospective scholars page states that ideal candidates are 35 or younger as of the specified August 1 date, study in their home country or home region when local programs are unavailable, have completed or are completing secondary school with above-average or excellent grades, and are applying to or already enrolled in a first undergraduate degree or diploma. The award is partial funding because WMI explicitly states that the scholarship does not cover all tuition or living costs. WMI also states that scholars planning to study in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, or Western Europe do not qualify. Selection is highly competitive, with recent years selecting approximately 5 percent of applicants. WMI emphasizes community service: applicants should have volunteer experience and selected scholars commit to 100 hours of community service each year during studies. The 2027 program application opens December 1, 2026 and is due March 1, 2027.

Eligibility

• Be 35 years old or younger as of the date stated for the application cycle
• Study in your home country or home region when local programmes are unavailable
• Have completed secondary school or be in the final year with above-average or excellent grades
• Apply to or be enrolled in a first undergraduate degree or diploma programme
• Plan to live and work in your home country or region after graduation
• Have volunteer experience and commit to 100 hours of community service each year during studies
• Have some financial resources but be unable to afford university without additional support
• Not plan to study in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, or Western Europe