2026 Western Groundwater Scholarships
Great careers aren't built alone. Sometimes they begin with someone believing in you.
2026 WGC Scholarship Program
Invest in Your Future
The Groundwater Resources Association is committed to supporting the next generation of groundwater professionals and helping remove financial barriers to participating in the Western Groundwater Congress.
The WGC Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students and professionals who are eager to learn, connect with industry leaders, and become more engaged in the groundwater community. Whether you're just beginning your career or looking for an opportunity to expand your professional network, we encourage you to apply.
Applications must be submitted by July 31, 2026.
Student Scholarship
The Student Scholarship helps students attend the Western Groundwater Congress and connect with the professionals, knowledge, and experiences that will support their future careers in groundwater.
Applications are reviewed by the Student Scholarship Committee after the application deadline. Applicants must be current GRA Student Members. Preference may be given to students selected to present during the SNAPP Talk Special Session.
Recipients receive complimentary conference registration and a scholarship award to help offset the cost of attending WGC. Award amounts vary each year based on available funding and the number of recipients.
Community Recharge Scholarship
The Community Recharge Scholarship helps reduce financial barriers to attending the Western Groundwater Congress by providing financial assistance to professionals who will benefit from participating in the conference and becoming more engaged in the groundwater community.
Applications are reviewed by GRA's DEI Committee after the application deadline and are evaluated based on previous GRA attendance, involvement in the groundwater profession, personal or professional challenges overcome, potential for WGC participation to advance career growth, barriers to attendance, and timely submission of the application.
Recipients receive complimentary conference registration and a scholarship award to help offset travel and conference-related expenses. Award amounts vary each year based on available funding and the number of recipients. Scholarship recipients also receive a complimentary one-year GRA membership.
Scholarship Award Process
Applications for both scholarship opportunities must be submitted by July 31, 2026.
After the application deadline, the Student Scholarship Committee and the DEI Committee will independently review applications for their respective scholarship programs. Each application is evaluated based on the published eligibility requirements and selection criteria to ensure a fair and thoughtful review process.
Applicants are welcome to apply for both scholarships; however, individuals may receive only one scholarship award so that funding can support as many attendees as possible.
Scholarship recipients are expected to be notified by mid-August 2026, providing ample time to make travel arrangements before the Western Groundwater Congress.