Western Illinois University

Western Illinois University (WIU) scholarships are designed to reduce financial barriers, support you in achieving your goals, and unleash your full potential. An affordable, high-quality education is well within reach through Western’s merit-based, need-based, and departmental scholarships for students from all backgrounds.

A scholarship is a type of financial aid award that you do not have to pay back. Western Illinois University scholarship opportunities are awarded for both merit (based on your grades and/or extracurriculars) and need (based on your and your family’s finances). WIU awards $26 million in scholarships and awards annually.

The revolutionary Western Way covers all tuition costs and mandatory fees for eligible incoming students. This distinctive approach ensures that no financial barriers stand between you and an excellent education. Find out if you qualify to follow the Western Way!

Scholarships at Western Illinois University can save you thousands of dollars on both the up-front and long-term costs of your education. Explore our 2026-2027 need- and merit-based scholarships for freshmen, transfer, and graduate students.

A separate scholarship application is required. Earn a merit-based award that covers 100% of your tuition, fees, room, and meal plan.

Automatic awards up to $6,000 or $4,000 per year based only on your HS GPA

Awards up to $1,000 per year to children and grandchildren of WIU graduates

Awards up to $3,000 for housing if your hometown is near Macomb