College Bound Scholarship

What is the College Bound Scholarship?

The College Bound Scholarship is a commitment of Washington state financial aid to eligible low-income students who sign up in 7th or 8th grade and fulfill a set of basic requirements, known as the College Bound Pledge, by the end of high school. 

The College Bound Scholarship can be used at over 60 eligible public and private colleges in Washington. It covers the average cost of tuition (public rates), some fees and a small book allowance, but it does not typically cover the entire cost of attendance (housing, meal plan, health insurance, etc.). 

Regional College Bound Scholarship Work

The College Bound Scholarship is an incredible opportunity for low-income students to access postsecondary education. In the Puget Sound region there is a strong focus on signing up all eligible students during middle school and then supporting them to fulfill requirements before their high school graduation. A few of the ways districts, community organizations, and agencies are supporting College Bound Scholarship student success are through:

• College Bound Re-pledge Events (Washington College Access Network – WCAN): These statewide events are sponsored by WCAN. They seek to remind 9th grade students and their families enrolled in the College Bound Scholarship of the requirements to receive the scholarship.
• College Bound Conference (Regional event): a day-long event featuring workshops for College Bound Scholarship eligible and enrolled Kent school district students and families. Topics include parent and student college and career advising, PSAT and college applications.

Where Can I Find Out More?

The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) administers the College Bound Scholarship program and supports students and their families to access the College Bound Scholarship. More information about College Bound Scholarship eligibility, parameters, and other frequently asked questions for students, families, and educators can be found at the College Bound website. Educators can also access more College Bound Scholarship information, support, and resources by contacting WCAN. Click here for the list of schools where the College Bound Scholarship can be used.