Washington College Grant for Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships in Washington
An apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with job-related instruction from experienced workers who teach you the skills of their craft. Apprentices learn job skills, gain experience, and ultimately earn a credential.
Most apprenticeships are designed for high school graduates or job seekers with a GED, but some are for high school students.
Whether you want an office job or something outdoors, work in a city or somewhere in rural Washington, there are apprenticeship opportunities waiting for you.
Benefits of an apprenticeship
- A Paycheck: Get paid training from day one. Your paycheck will increase over time as your skills improve.
- Hands-On Training: Learn on the job from experts in your field.
- An Education: Take classes relevant to your job that can apply to a degree or certificate.
- A Career: Pave the way to a fulfilling, long-term career, with little to no debt.
- National Credential: Receive a nationally recognized credential at the end of your program.
- State Financial Aid: Apply for financial aid. Approved apprenticeship programs may qualify for state aid to help cover required expenses like tuition, fees, and materials.
How do apprenticeships work?
Registered apprenticeships offer occupational experience by combining classroom instruction with paid, on-the-job training.
Start by searching apprenticeships to find the right occupation for you. Then research program options, and apply directly with the employer or the program sponsor.
Explore apprenticeship funding opportunities
Washington College Grant (WCG) and WCG for Apprenticeship (WCG-A)
Washington College Grant (WCG) is one of the most generous financial aid programs in the country. Recent high school graduates and working-age adults from low- and middle-income families can qualify to receive money for college or career training. There are two categories of WCG: Washington College Grant (WCG) and Washington College Grant for Apprenticeship (WCG-A). Both help income-eligible apprentices pay for tuition, fees, and materials.
Washington College Grant: Apprenticeships on a college campus
For apprenticeships that are part of an eligible program of study at an eligible institution, such as a community or technical college, apprentices should complete a financial aid application. Learn more on the Washington College Grant page.
Washington College Grant for Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships sponsored by employers
Apprentices in non-campus-based programs are encouraged to check with their program sponsor to ensure they participate in WCG-A. Sponsors must apply and have approval to take part in WCG-A to be eligible to offer funds to eligible apprentices. Interested sponsors can learn more on the WCG-A Apprenticeship Program Providers page.
Current eligible sponsors include:
Passport to Careers
Passport to Apprenticeship supports youth and young adults, ages 13-21, who have experienced foster care or unaccompanied homelessness. The program supports people in registered apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship programs. Funds can cover tuition and fees for classes, and occupational costs like work clothes and tools. To learn more, please contact passport@wsac.wa.gov.
Image, above right: Courtesy of Clover Park Technical College