TORRINGTON, Wyo. – Going back to college can feel like an impossible dream for adults balancing careers, raising families and managing everyday expenses. At Eastern Wyoming College, that dream is becoming a reality for more Wyoming residents thanks to the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship.

The scholarship, available to Wyoming residents age 24 and older, helps remove one of the biggest barriers facing adult learners, the cost of higher education. Eligible students can receive up to $7,200 toward tuition and fees while earning a degree or certificate, making it easier to start or finish the education needed for a new career or advancement in their current profession.

Eastern Wyoming College is encouraging adults who have considered returning to school to take advantage of the opportunity and apply.

“We want adult learners to know that college is an affordable, achievable option,” said Wyoming Community College Commission Executive Director Laurel Ballard. “By utilizing the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship, students can ‘Get The Funding To Finish’ and pursue the education they need to advance their careers and reach their goals.”

Created by the Wyoming Legislature in 2022 and funded through investment earnings from a $50 million endowment, the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship was established to strengthen Wyoming’s workforce by helping adults gain the education and training employers need. Scholarship funding became available beginning in fall 2025.

Qualified students may receive up to $1,800 per semester while enrolled full time, with a lifetime maximum award of $7,200.

For many Eastern Wyoming College students, the scholarship has meant more than financial assistance; it has provided peace of mind and renewed confidence.

“Receiving Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship has immensely impacted my life,” said EWC student Michael Staiger. “It’s made it so that I can spend more time focusing on my schoolwork and spending time with my family with less financial worry. It has been almost life changing while I’m pursuing this new education to better my life.”

Adult learner Destiny Beaman said the scholarship made returning to college possible.

“As an adult student, it can feel overwhelming trying to balance college, work, finances and everyday life responsibilities,” Beaman said. “This scholarship has taken a huge weight off financially and has allowed me to focus more on finishing my degree and building a better future for myself and my family.”

The scholarship has also helped students pursue long-term career goals that once seemed out of reach.

Aimee Schwab, a single mother and pharmacy technician, said the scholarship has helped her continue supporting her family while working toward becoming a registered nurse.

“Because of this scholarship, I have been able to finish my prerequisites, earn acceptance into the Nursing program and will graduate in 2027 with little to no debt,” Schwab said. “I am truly grateful for the opportunity.”

To be eligible for the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship, applicants must be at least 24 years old, meet Wyoming residency requirements, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), register with the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and enroll in an eligible credential program.

The scholarship is available to students pursuing certificates or degrees that prepare them for Wyoming’s workforce, making it an ideal opportunity for adults looking to change careers, develop new skills or finish a college education they started years ago.

Prospective students interested in applying should first submit an application for admission to Eastern Wyoming College, complete the FAFSA, register with the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services and apply through EWC’s Financial Aid Office.

For more information about the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship or assistance with the application process, contact Eastern Wyoming College’s Financial Aid Office or visit ewc.wy.edu.