International Student Scholarship

student holding scholarship letter

The International Student Scholarship is for current WWU international students.

 

Each year, ISSS awards several scholarships of about $1500 to international students currently attending Western. The scholarships are awarded in the form of partial tuition waivers which may only be used during the following academic year (Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters).

The scholarship is connected to the International Student Leadership Program (ISLP). 

All recipients of the International Student Scholarship are required to attend monthly leadership trainings and assist new students through the ISLP.

Scholarship Guidelines

Eligibility

To apply, you must meet all of the following requirements:

  • You must be an international student with non-immigrant F-1 visa status.
  • You must have completed one year at WWU. 
  • You must be an undergraduate or graduate student who will not graduate before spring of the following academic year.
  • You must have a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA at the time of application.
  • You must maintain a full-time course of study, as stipulated by the F-1 visa regulations, during each quarter you receive the scholarship.

Please note that if you fall within any of the following categories, you are not eligible to apply:

  • You are a student with J-1 visa immigration status (exchange student).
  • You are sponsored by an external agency such as a home government, home university, or a private corporation.
  • You have received a full-time graduate assistantship (research or teaching).
  • You qualify for resident/in-state tuition
  • You are enrolled in off-campus or extended programs.

Factors for Awarding Scholarships

The following factors will be used to select recipients of the International Student Scholarship:

  • International Student Leader application with short essay responses
  • GPA, Resume
  • Video submission or short interview

Application Procedures

  1. Prepare and collect the supplemental materials
  2. Complete the application form (sent by ISSS)
  3. Submit the application and supplemental materials by the deadline (usually in mid-late May).

Note: Only complete applications with all supplemental materials that are submitted on time will be considered. 

International Student Leader Role

The International Student Scholarship is designed to support students who have been chosen as International Student Leaders (ISLs).

This program matches current international student leaders with small groups of incoming international students during their first academic year at Western. ISLs provide guidance, support, and friendship, while encouraging new students to explore the campus and community. Leaders will create a welcoming and inclusive environment, helping new students navigate academic life, cultural adjustments, and campus resources.

Benefits:
•    Develop valuable leadership and mentorship skills.
•    Gain experience working in a cross-cultural environment.
•    Contribute to the success and well-being of fellow international students.
•    Build stronger connections with the Western and Bellingham community.
•    Qualify to receive a detailed letter of reference from the program coordinator.