Women in Financial Services: Advance Your Career with the WMCP® Scholarship 

Applications accepted through August 15, 2026. 

For women in financial services, career growth often requires more than ambition. It takes access, support, and meaningful opportunities to lead. 

That’s the driving force behind the Wealth Management Certified Professional® (WMCP®) Scholarship for the Advancement of Women in Financial Services, a collaboration between Ameritas and The American College of Financial Services. Now in its fifth year, the program continues to equip women with the education, mentorship and confidence to advance their careers and better serve their clients and communities. 

Participants in the program represent a wide range of backgrounds, career stages and experiences. What connects them is a shared goal: To grow as professionals and make a meaningful impact for the clients and communities they serve. 

“We’re incredibly proud to celebrate five years of partnership with The American College and the impact this scholarship has had on women across our industry,” says Shannon Berry, vice president of sales and distribution at Ameritas. “At Ameritas, we believe expanding access to education and mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the future of financial services. Supporting these scholars means investing in leaders who will drive meaningful change for their clients, their organizations, and their communities.” 

Support to help you move forward 

At its core, the scholarship is designed to do more than fund education. It helps remove barriers at pivotal moments in a woman’s career, making it possible to pursue advanced credentials while balancing professional and personal commitments. 

Recipients gain access to the WMCP® designation program, along with mentorship through Women in Insurance & Financial Services (WIFS) and a complimentary WIFS membership. Together, these elements create a support system that extends far beyond the classroom. 

That sense of purpose aligns closely with the mission of The American College and its Center for Women in Financial Services, which works to advance gender parity through research, education and advocacy. 

“The mission of The American College is rooted in advancing knowledge, ethical leadership and lifelong learning in financial services,” said Carol Parlin Prushan, senior vice president, advancement and alumni relations, The American College of Financial Services. “Programs like the WMCP® Scholarship bring that mission to life — helping women build the expertise and confidence necessary to lead in a changing industry, while expanding access to financial guidance for those who need it most.” 

A community that supports long-term growth 

Equally important is the community that forms around the program. As a WMCP scholar, you’ll connect with peers, mentors and industry leaders who understand both the challenges and the opportunities facing women in financial services. 

Through these connections, you’ll gain encouragement, share insights and build relationships that can last throughout your career. 

You’ll also join a growing community of women making a difference for themselves and their communities. Many scholars report taking on new responsibilities, advancing in their roles and increasing their earning potential. Nearly one in four scholars reported a promotion, and more than half took on new responsibilities, reflecting expanded scope and trust within their organizations. Over two-thirds of recipients experienced an increase in income.  

Beyond the financial impact, scholars also have shared the long-term value of strengthening their expertise. With the training they received through The American College of Financial Services, they now have the tools to deliver more comprehensive, client-centered financial guidance, particularly to individuals and families who may not otherwise have access to it. 

Five years of impact — and a moment to act 

As the program reaches its five-year milestone, its value has never been clearer. Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles across financial services, and increasing their presence in advisory and executive positions is essential to serving a more diverse client base. 

Programs like this scholarship help close that gap — not only by creating opportunity, but by building a pipeline of skilled, confident professionals prepared to lead. 

Take the next step in your career 

If you’re ready to expand your expertise, grow your career, and be part of a supportive community of peers and mentors, now is the time to apply. By indicating your interest in the WMCP® program on the application, you’ll be considered for this scholarship. 

The current application period closes August 15, 2026. 

As part of the next class of WMCP® Scholars, you’ll take a meaningful step forward for your career and for the future of the financial services industry. 

Apply now or learn more at TheAmericanCollege.edu/Scholarships. 

Key information for fall 2026: 

• Application deadline: August 15. 

• Award notification: September 15. 

• Program start date: Early October. 

While this scholarship was established to support and advance women in the profession, eligibility is not limited by gender. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals who are committed to the values and goals the scholarship was designed to promote.