WGU uses peer coaching to connect students with trained student interns who understand the experience of learning in WGU’s online, competency-based environment. Peer coaches model effective student behaviors and provide support through one-to-one coaching, tutoring, small-group study sessions, and peer-led cohorts.
Since peer coaching launched in May 2022, more than 11,000 students have participated. WGU’s analysis compared participating students with matched students who did not engage in peer coaching. Students who participated completed their next course a median of two days faster and demonstrated a 1.5% to 3% higher term course-completion rate across most momentum groups at 14, 28, and 60 days following their first engagement. The strongest improvements appeared among students with low to moderate momentum, with positive results observed across WGU’s schools.
The results suggest that peer coaching is most effective when targeted to students and courses where additional human connection can accelerate progress. WGU expanded peer coaching from 86 courses to 113 courses during FY26 and is continuing to refine how students are connected with peer support based on their momentum and course needs.
Peer coaching complements WGU’s faculty support model by giving students access to someone who has recently navigated similar learning challenges. It provides practical academic help while strengthening students’ confidence, connection, and ability to move forward independently.