FAFSA/WASFA
In Washington, students complete one of two applications to be considered for student financial aid: the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid). The applications open October 1 each year and students should try to complete their financial aid application as soon as possible after that date. In addition to state and federal aid, many school-based and school-funded scholarships require students to submit a FAFSA or WASFA form for consideration.
The FAFSA
U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizen students will be considered for grants, loans and work-study funds upon completion of this form. Federal aid can be used at technical, two-year and four-year colleges and universities across the country. Learn more about eligibility requirements and complete the FAFSA at .
The WASFA
Students who are not eligible for federal financial aid due to immigration status may be eligible for several Washington State financial aid programs, including the State Need Grant, the College Bound Scholarship, State Work Study, or Passport Scholarship. These programs fund in-state public and private technical, two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Learn more about eligibility and complete the WASFA at readysetgrad.org
PSCCN is committed to supporting practitioners and community partners to educate students and families and assist them in completing financial aid applications. Check out the PSCCN Financial Aid Toolkit to access completion resources, promotional materials, and financial aid educational information.