Best Scholarships in Washington 2026: State Grants, Awards
Washington scholarships 2026: College Grant up to $11,700, College Bound Scholarship, UW Husky Promise, WA Opportunity Scholarship for STEM, and university
Best Scholarships in Washington 2026
Washington State provides strong financial support through the Washington College Grant (formerly State Need Grant), one of the most generous need-based programs in the country — covering up to 100% of tuition for families earning under $70,000. Combined with the College Bound Scholarship and robust institutional aid, Washington residents have excellent pathways to affordable higher education.
State-Funded Scholarships & Grants
| Program | Award | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Washington College Grant | Up to $11,700/year (public) or $9,745 (private) | WA resident, family income under ~$70K, FAFSA filed |
| College Bound Scholarship | Full tuition at public institution | Sign up in 7th/8th grade, income eligible, graduate HS |
| Passport to Careers | Up to full tuition + $500/month stipend | Former foster youth, age 22 or younger |
| WA State Opportunity Scholarship | Up to $22,500 total ($7,500/year) | STEM/healthcare majors, family income under $125K |
University Merit Scholarships
University of Washington offers the Husky Promise (covers tuition/fees for families earning under $65K) and Purple & Gold Scholarship ($10,000-$20,000). Washington State University provides the Regents Scholars Award (full tuition) and Distinguished Achievement Scholarship ($3,000-$8,000). Western Washington University's Western Scholars awards up to $6,000/year. Seattle University provides merit packages from $15,000 to $25,000 annually.
Application Strategy
- File FAFSA or WASFA (for undocumented students) as early as possible
- College Bound Scholarship requires sign-up in middle school — check if you're enrolled
- WA State Opportunity Scholarship targets STEM/healthcare — apply by February deadline
- UW Husky Promise is automatic for income-eligible admitted students
- Search readysetgrad.wa.gov for the full state scholarship database
Related: Best State Scholarships & Grants Guide | STEM Scholarships 2026 | Complete Scholarships Guide
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★ Key Takeaways
Source: The College Monk — Based on data from 3,837 U.S. universities. Last updated July 2026.
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