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WCG-Connect

WA Grant and WCG-Connect

Free college or career training for many Washingtonians 

Most people who receive public benefits like food, medical, or cash assistance are also eligible for the Washington College Grant (WA Grant). WA Grant gives people money for education beyond high school, like certificate programs, job training, apprenticeships, or college.  

WA Grant is available to people of all ages. Your family can benefit, whether you have a child about to graduate from high school or you want to train for a new career. 

WA Grant eligibility

Through WCG-Connect, people who qualify for certain approved public benefits or support programs can automatically be considered for WA Grant without completing a financial aid application like the federal FAFSA form. If you meet the residency and program requirements, you can get free money for college or career training. 

Keep in mind, even if you qualify for WA Grant through WCG-Connect, there may be additional federal or state financial aid available to you. Completing a FAFSA or WASFA financial aid application is the only way to know for sure how much money you can get.

How to qualify for WA Grant through WCG-Connect partner programs 

Currently, people who are eligible for the following partner programs can get WA Grant without completing a financial aid application: 

  • Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Program 
  • Housing and Essential Needs (HEN) Referral Program 
  • Pregnant Women Assistance (PWA)
  • Economic Security for All (EcSA)

Please note, more WCG-Connect partner programs may be added in the future. 

How to get WA Grant through WCG-Connect 

If you believe you are eligible for WCG-Connect, complete the following steps to get started on your education pathway: 

  1. Apply for admission to a participating college or training program.
  2. Contact the financial aid office at the college or program and tell them you believe you are eligible for WCG-Connect. 
  3. Have your approval letter or confirmation of enrollment in an eligible WCG-Connect partner program available—you made need it to verify eligibility.  

Next step: enroll and start learning! 

What about people who don’t qualify? 

Not in one of the approved partner programs? You may still qualify for WA Grant, but you will need to apply for financial aid.