Demystifying the Cowboy Commitment

You’ve heard of the Cowboy Commitment at the University of Wyoming. But you have questions.

First of all, what the heck is it? How does it apply to me? Is it an academic program, or some crazy new outdoor adventure?

Here’s what you need to know.

What is it?

Implemented in fall 2019, the Cowboy Commitment is a financial pledge that includes both merit- and need-based funding to offset education costs for Wyoming students and families. 

Merit-based funding is offered to students who show academic proficiency in GPA and ACT/SAT scores. 

Need-based funding is for students with demonstrated financial need because they and their families need assistance to cover the costs of school. 

Who is it for?

It’s pretty simple, really: It’s money for Wyoming students. That means incoming first-year students from the state who are starting college in fall 2020, or transfer students from Wyoming community colleges who have 75 or fewer academic credits and a grade-point average of at least 3.0.

Why was it put in place?

Because we don’t just say we want to educate Wyoming students. We mean it. This kind of financial commitment is meaningful and could make a difference for a student who is unsure of how they and their family will afford college. UW is responsible to citizens of the state to ensure that a college education is as affordable and accessible as possible.