There are many scholarship and grant programs for college students in Washington. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college or university student, or a parent looking for financial aid, you have options.
Notably, the State of Washington offers a variety of programs to help students and families with the cost of college. To help connect you with these awards, we’ve included a list below that outlines general eligibility requirements and links to awards. The options are administered by the Washington Student Achievement Council.
One important point to consider about Washington state financial aid programs is that they require the completion of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid. However, it’s also used by states to determine your eligibility for prizes based on financial need. The prizes below may also require the completion of the Washington Application for State Financial Need (WASFA). It’s good practice to get an early start on these processes because they can take time.
Additionally, scholarships and grants may have specific terms and conditions that will determine your ability to qualify for them. For example, certain scholarship awards may exist specifically for high school students while a college grant may ask students to demonstrate financial need. Of course, there are merit scholarships, too. These typically require a strong GPA and extracurricular achievement. In short, always understand the opportunities you apply for and invest time in those whose criteria you meet.
Now, you’re likely here because you’re looking for money for college. Great! Here are some options that can help you with tuition, books, and other education expenses.
Washington Scholarship Programs
College Bound Scholarship
The Washington College Bound Scholarship offers financial aid to middle school students who commit to attending college. To be eligible, students must pledge to attend college within one year of graduating high school. Applicants must also earn a cumulative 2.0 GPA or higher.
The scholarship value varies. Award money may cover the average tuition at a state college, some fees, and books.
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship
The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship offers support for students pursuing high-demand STEM and health care majors. Funding can be used for any eligible STEM or health care degree at any eligible public or private college or university in Washington state. To be eligible, applicants must be residents of Washington, meet financial need criteria, and have a 2.75 GPA on a college or high school transcript. Applicants must also currently be a high school senior or graduate or a college freshman or sophomore.
This scholarship provides up to $22,500 to recipients.
American Indian Endowed Scholarship
The American Indian Endowed Scholarship (AIES) helps students with financial need and close social and cultural ties to an American Indian community in Washington state. Students may use this award at accredited public or private colleges. The program prioritizes upper-year and graduate-level students, but all applicants are considered.
Scholarship amounts can range from $500 to $2,000.
Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE)
The Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE) recognizes high school seniors and community and technical college students for outstanding performance in career and technical education programs.
WAVE awards are based on the total number of awarded grants, as funding is limited. The minimum award is $4,500 per year for up to two years, or $9,000. The maximum award is $11,700 per year for up to two years, or $23,400. Two years means six quarters or four semesters. The award covers most undergraduate expenses at a Washington public or private college or university, or licensed private career school in this state.
Washington Grant Programs
Washington College Grant
The Washington College Grant (WCG) is an equity-focused financial aid program. It is designed for recent high school graduates and working-age adults from low- and middle-income families. Applicants must be Washington residents and meet financial aid requirements.
Award amounts vary based on income, family size, and cost of program. The grant may cover full tuition at a public college or university, including community college or technical college. Or, tuition at a private college or career training program.
Washington College Grant Program for Apprenticeships
The Washington College Grant for Apprenticeships allows students to earn on-the-job training and educational credentials at the same time. Most apprenticeships are designed for high school graduates or those with a GED. Some programs also exist for high school students.
Award amounts vary depending on program and student need. Available funds can be used for tuition, fees, and necessary program materials.
Opportunity Grant
The Opportunity Grant helps low-income students complete up to one year of college and a certificate in a high-wage, high-demand career. To be eligible, students must complete the FAFSA or WASFA, have an income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and maintain a 2.0 grade point average.
This program covers the following:
- Funding for tuition and fees up to 45 credits (one year, full time).
- Funding for required books and supplies up to $1,000.
- You may also be able to get:
- Tutoring
- Career advising
- College success classes
- Emergency child care
- Emergency transportation
- An industry mentor, through the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board’s Opportunity Partnership Program
National Guard Postsecondary Education Grant
The National Guard Grant helps members of Washington’s National Guard earn a degree or certificate. In exchange for each year of funding, recipients must agree to serve one year.
Award amounts vary. The grant can be used on all education expenses not covered by other forms of financial aid.
Find More Scholarships and Grants for Washington College Students
The above list of state scholarships and grants is a great resource to connect you with money for school. However, your research should continue. Without question, scholarships are a numbers game. The more you apply for, the greater your chances are to find success.
With that said, there are many private college scholarships and grants that exist for Washington high school and undergraduate students. There are merit-based awards, need-based awards, and a number of scholarship opportunities based on extracurriculars, hobbies, and interests.
To ensure your success, speak with your guidance counselor, local library, or financial aid office. These resources can connect you with local scholarships that are often less competitive than state or national awards. Ultimately, there is money to help students and the better equipped you are to find it, the better your scholarship journey will likely go.
Scholarships can help you take fewer student loans and they can amplify your career potential. A record of winning scholarships is an asset. So, good luck in your search and applications!
Original post here: How to Win Scholarships and Grants – State of Washington
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