Any active contributor to a Wikimedia project, or Wikimedia volunteer in any other capacity, from anywhere in the world, is considered eligible for a scholarship. As the program supports volunteer participation, individuals whose participation is tied to paid work are not eligible for a scholarship, including paid or contract staff of any Wikimedia organization. Part-time staff, interns, and working students are excluded from this rule.

Activity within the Wikimedia movement will be the main criteria for evaluation. Participation in non-Wikimedia free knowledge, free software, collaborative, or educational initiatives is a benefit, but is not a requirement. Please see the FAQ for more information on eligibility.