Washington Financial Aid
State grants, eligibility, deadlines, and strategies for Washington students
Washington's flagship program, the Washington College Grant, is one of the most generous need-based state aid programs in the nation — covering up to full tuition for families earning up to the state median income. The state also offers the College Bound Scholarship for low-income middle schoolers who sign up early.
Washington grant programs
Washington College Grant
Need-basedUp to full tuition at public colleges (approximately $12,000/year at universities); up to $5,000/year at private/independent schools
Eligibility
- Washington resident
- Family income at or below 100% of state median family income (approximately $70,000 for a family of four)
- Enrolled at an eligible Washington institution at least half-time
- File the FAFSA or WASFA
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
Deadline: No hard deadline — awards made on a rolling basis as long as funds remain
Official info →College Bound Scholarship
Need-basedUp to full tuition at public institutions
Eligibility
- Must have signed the College Bound Scholarship pledge by 8th grade
- Family income at or below 65% of state median income at time of pledge
- Graduate from a Washington high school
- No felony convictions
- File the FAFSA or WASFA
Deadline: Pledge by end of 8th grade; file FAFSA by senior year
Official info →Tips for maximising Washington aid
The Washington College Grant has no hard deadline, but apply early — if demand exceeds funding, late applicants may miss out.
If you're undocumented or DACA, use the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) instead of the FAFSA — Washington extends state aid eligibility to these students.
The College Bound Scholarship requires an 8th-grade pledge — if you have younger siblings, make sure they sign up before the deadline.
Educational guide only. State aid programs, amounts, and deadlines change annually. Always verify current information directly with Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) and your college's financial aid office before making decisions.
Put this into action
Find colleges in Washington that fit your budget, or learn more about the FAFSA process.