Washington Financial Aid Programs
Remember, there are four main types of financial aid: scholarships, loans, grants and work-study. Within those categories, there are a lot of different programs and services. Just think how many different scholarships are available! There aren’t quite that many loan or grant programs, but there are quite a few. The state of Washington spends millions each year to help students and their families pay for college. You may be eligible for one or more of the following state financial aid programs.- State Need Grant
Undergraduate resident students with significant financial need may be eligible for this grant.
- Educational Opportunity Grant
Undergraduate students with junior standing may be eligible for grants. Students must have demonstrated financial need and be unable to complete their education without this grant due to family or work commitments, health concerns, financial need or other similar factors.
- State Work-Study
Undergraduate and graduate students with financial need earn money for college through part-time work while gaining experience. Whenever possible, jobs are related to your academic and career interests.
- College Bound Scholarship
This four-year scholarship covers the cost of college tuition, fees and books for low-income students who sign a pledge in 7th or 8th grade promising to graduate from high school and to demonstrate good citizenship. This program provides hope and incentive for students and families who otherwise might not consider college as an option because of its cost.
- Washington Scholars
Three high school students from each of the 49 state legislative districts are selected to receive scholarships for outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community service.
- Washington Award for Vocational Excellence (WAVE)
High school and community/technical college students receive scholarships for outstanding achievement in vocational or technical education.
- American Indian Endowed Scholarship
Low-income undergraduate and graduate students with close social and cultural ties to a Native American community may be eligible for scholarships.
- Health Professional Loan Repayment and Scholarship
Nursing, medical or other healthcare students agree to work for three to five years in medically underserved areas or in areas with a shortage of healthcare providers. In exchange, they receive either a scholarship or help repaying student loans.
- Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship
Washington high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and show promise of continued academic excellence are chosen to apply for scholarships.
- Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) Student Exchange
Washington residents can enroll in eligible undergraduate and graduate programs in 14 western states at reduced tuition rates.
For more information about Washington financial aid programs, contact:
Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board
917 Lakeridge Way
PO Box 43430
Olympia, WA 98504-3430
www.hecb.wa.gov/paying
Phone: (360) 753-7850
Email: finaid@hecb.wa.gov
For more information about federal aid programs, contact:
U.S. Department of Education
Federal Student Aid Information Center
www.ed.gov/studentaid
TTY: 1-800-730-8913
Phone: 1-800-433-3243
For more information about federal tax benefits, contact:
U.S. Internal Revenue Service
www.irs.ustreas.gov
Phone: 1-800-829-3676