OLYMPIA, WA — October 15, 2025: Governor Bob Ferguson is reminding Washington residents that nearly half of all households in the state qualify for financial assistance through the Washington College Grant (WA Grant) — one of the most generous need-based aid programs in the nation.
In a post shared Tuesday morning, Ferguson emphasized that the WA Grant can be used not only for college tuition but also for apprenticeships, technical programs, and job training opportunities, helping Washingtonians access a wide range of career pathways.
“Nearly half of Washington households qualify to receive financial aid through the WA Grant, which can be used for higher education, apprenticeships, or job training,” Ferguson wrote. “To access that money, all you have to do is fill out the FAFSA.”
Students and families are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov — a crucial step in unlocking both federal and state financial aid.
The WA Grant program provides funding on a sliding scale based on family income, covering tuition and fees for eligible students attending public colleges and universities, private institutions, or participating career training programs.
According to the Washington Student Achievement Council, thousands of eligible students miss out on financial aid each year because they fail to complete the FAFSA or the state’s alternative WASFA form for undocumented students.
Governor Ferguson’s reminder comes as state officials continue outreach efforts to boost financial aid awareness ahead of upcoming FAFSA deadlines.
Nearly half of Washington households qualify to receive financial aid through the WA Grant, which can be used for higher education, apprenticeships, or job training.
To access that money, all you have to do is fill out the FAFSA. https://t.co/tqqMWCZNXm
— Governor Bob Ferguson (@GovBobFerguson) October 15, 2025