The Wells Mountain Initiative Scholarship popularly known as the WMI scholarship is awarded to academically deserving students. The Wells Mountain Initiative is a nonprofit organisation from the United States of America. It is dedicated to using education as a tool to empower students from developing countries.
This article will discuss the WMI Scholarship eligibility requirements, fields of study and important dates to help interested South African students. Additionally, it will provide step-by-step guide to apply and tips to increase chances of success when you apply. We have also included benefit and expenses covered by this scholarship programme in 2026 academic year.
Fields of Study Covered by the WMI Scholarship
The WMI Scholarship programme is broad-based because it covers a wider spectrum of fields of study. These include agriculture, education, healthcare, social sciences, community care studies and ALL fields of study.
Studies undertaken with financial support from WMI must be undergraduate certificates, Diplomas or Bachelor Degree in ANY study field.
Expenses Covered by the WMI Scholarship
Applicants who successfully get accepted into the scholarship programme have the following expenses covered:
- Tuition fees
- Books and study material
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Transport allowances
The total number of students funded by WMI is up to 100 each year. Each students receives an average of up to $1500 USD which sometimes goes up to $3000 USD a year.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
- Applicants must be 35 years of age or younger as of August 2026
- Applicants must have completed Matric
- University path applicants must be intending ungertaking or completing the first undergraduate qualification
- Applicants must be registered in their home country institution or another developing country
- Applicants must commit to working in their home country after completing their funded studies
- Applicants must have participated in volunteer service prior to applying for the WMI Scholarship
Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate their seriousness about community work.
How To Apply?
Apply online via WMI Scholarship Application 2026 official page.
Supporting Documents Required
- National ID or alternative form of ID
- Grade transcripts from schools attended
- National exam results if applicable
- Tuition fees structure from your university (can provide from website if not accepted yet.
- Names and working email addresses of two recommenders
- Headshot photo
- Personal statement on your background
- Provide a personal statement about your background, including family and life experiences. It must consist of 500 words or less.
- Please explain what inspired you to pursue your selected field of study. What makes you well suited to this field, and how would you like to use your degree to help your community, nation or region in the future? This statement must be 500 words or less.
Closing Date
The deadline for all applications is 1 March 2026 at 7:00 am
Scholarships Contact Information
If you have any query relating to this scholarship opportunity, please contact Wells Mountain Initivative using the following details:
- Email address: info@wellsmountaininitiative.org
This article was last updated in February 2026.