Women's Independence Scholarship Program
Offered by Women's Independence Scholarship Program, Inc. (WISP)
About This Scholarship
The Women's Independence Scholarship Program is a Wilmington, North Carolina nonprofit founded in 1999 with funding from philanthropist Doris Buffett's Sunshine Lady Foundation. Its flagship Doris Buffett Independence Scholar Grant helps women who have survived intimate partner abuse return to school and build economic independence for themselves and their children — the organization reports more than $50 million awarded since inception and over 3,000 graduates.
Eligible applicants identify as survivors of intimate partner abuse, have been physically separated from their abuser for at least one year but no more than ten, and are enrolled in a college, trade, or certificate program. Financial need is part of the review, and the application asks for a FAFSA Student Aid Index, tax return pages, an academic plan, narrative responses, and two recommendations — one from a professional such as a domestic-violence advocate, counselor, attorney, or medical provider, and one personal.
WISP runs two application cycles a year: August 1 through October 1, with decisions released starting December 31, and January 1 through March 1, with decisions starting May 31.
Eligibility
- Women who identify as survivors of intimate partner abuse
- Physically separated from the abuser for at least 1 year but no more than 10 years
- Enrolled (full or part time) in a college, university, trade, or certificate program
- Demonstrated financial need (FAFSA Student Aid Index and tax documentation required)
How To Apply
- Confirm eligibility on wispinc.org, then start the application in WISP's online grants portal during a cycle window (August 1-October 1 or January 1-March 1)
- Gather your FAFSA SAI, first two pages of your tax return, academic plan, and two recommendations (one professional, one personal)
- Submit before the cycle deadline; decisions release starting December 31 (fall cycle) or May 31 (spring cycle)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for a WISP grant?
Women survivors of intimate partner abuse who have been separated from their abuser for one to ten years and are enrolled in a college, trade, or certificate program, with demonstrated financial need.
Can I receive support for more than one term?
Yes. WISP has a returning-student track, and recipients can reapply in later cycles as they progress through their academic plan.