Western Oregon University has created two new 2017-18 scholarships directed toward students who meet the qualifications for the Oregon Promise program.

The first, WOU Jump-Start, is a scholarship for full-time students enrolling for fall 2017 as freshmen who desire the four-year college experience but are considering community college because of financial constraints. There are two scholarship levels: $1,500 will be awarded for two years for students who received admittance into the Oregon Promise program, or $1,000 will be awarded for two years for students who qualify for the Oregon Promise program in every aspect except that their family income level is above the new limit used by the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC).

The second new scholarship, WOU Jump-Start Plus, is designed for transfer students from Oregon community colleges enrolling in fall 2017, winter 2018 or spring 2018. Again, there are two award levels: a pro-rated scholarship of $1,500 for Oregon Promise students for the remainder of their initial two-year Oregon Promise eligibility, or a pro-rated scholarship of $1,000 for the remainder of their initial two-year Oregon Promise eligibility for students who qualify for the Oregon Promise program in every aspect except that their family income level is above the new limit used by HECC.

“Oregon Promise has increased awareness of college opportunities and provided meaningful financial support. The WOU Jump-Start scholarships build on that momentum by providing students who want the university experience with financial support for their enrollment at WOU,” said President Rex Fuller. “At WOU, we continually strive to ensure a four-year university experience is within reach for Oregon families. These scholarships will help students navigate their path to success.”

The admissions application fee of $60 will be waived for new applicants who qualify for these new scholarship programs, starting Aug. 1. Applicants must provide proof (a letter or email from HECC) of Oregon Promise eligibility. For full details and requirements of the WOU Jump-Start scholarships, students can call WOU Financial Aid at 503-838-8475 or email finaid@wou.edu.