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info@wsac.wa.gov | (360) 753-7800

Early Path to WA Grant

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An early path to free money for college or career training 

Washington state guarantees Washington College Grant (WA Grant) to graduating high schoolers from families who are verified recipients of food benefits like food stamps or EBT cards.

Eligible students qualify for free tuition at Washington’s public colleges and universities. WA Grant can also help pay for private colleges, career training, and even approved apprenticeship expenses.
 

WA Grant can help you pursue your goals for the future

Most jobs in Washington require some kind of education after high school, and WA Grant can help you get the training you need to succeed. High school students who qualify through the early path can get at least one year of maximum WA Grant without completing a financial aid application. 

Even if you automatically qualify for WA Grant, you may be able to get even more money through other federal or state financial aid programs. Completing a FAFSA or WASFA financial aid application is the only way to know for sure how much money you can get.

WA Grant is guaranteed to eligible families: if you meet the residency and program requirements (outlined below under “Are there additional requirements to receive WA Grant?”), you can get free money for college or career training. This financial aid can be used to pay for tuition & fees, but also for housing, supplies, and other education-related costs. 
 

How to qualify for the early path to WA Grant

Verify your income eligibility using our secure online platform.

Currently, graduating high school students whose families receive benefits through either of the following programs can get WA Grant without completing a financial aid application: 

  • Basic Food Program (SNAP)
  • Food Assistance Program (FAP)

What you’ll need to provide:

  • Have a picture, scan, or screenshot of one of the following ready to upload:
    • Basic Food Program (SNAP) or Food Assistance Program (FAP) benefit verification letter from DSHS.
    • SNAP or FAP status verification in DSHS Client Benefit Account portal. 
  • Note, files for both the federal and state funded programs are accepted. 

Button - Click to verify your eligibility

What happens next?

Take the following steps to get started on your education pathway: 

  • Confirm you meet residency and program requirements outlined below under “Are there additional requirements to receive WA Grant?”
  • Apply for admission to one or more of 60+ participating colleges and training programs.
  • Enroll and start learning!


What about people who don’t qualify for the early path to WA Grant? 

  • Not receiving food benefits? You may still qualify for WA Grant—about half of Washington families do!—but you will need to apply for financial aid.
  • Don’t have a student in high school? Adults who receive certain public benefits may automatically qualify for WA Grant through WCG-Connect. 


Are there additional requirements to receive WA Grant?

All WA Grant recipients must meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Meet income requirements or verify benefits status.
  • Attend an eligible college or training program.
  • Be a Washington resident.
  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or the equivalent.
  • Not have already earned a bachelor’s degree or higher.
  • Not owe a repayment for any state financial aid program.
  • Enroll in a program of study that is eligible for financial aid—most are. Check with the financial aid office at your college to ensure your program qualifies.