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Posted on 07/10/2022 by beth kelly

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With October comes all the exciting autumnal things, trees changing colors and the opening of financial aid application season. Starting October 1, people can apply for financial aid for the 2023-24 school year. Applying for financial aid is a crucial first step toward college and career training. Completing a financial aid application opens more options for the future.

Many families assume they won't qualify for aid, but with the Washington College Grant (WCG) program, more families qualify than ever. WCG gives more money to more people for more kinds of education and training beyond high school. Touted as one of the most generous and flexible programs in the country, WCG helps low- and middle-income people of all ages take their next step. The grant supports students pursuing certificates and degrees and apprentices participating in approved registered apprenticeship programs. 

In Washington, there are two ways to apply for financial aid. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens apply for federal and state aid with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). People who can't file the FAFSA due to immigration status can apply only for state aid with the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid). Students who submit a FAFSA or a WASFA are far more likely to attend college. 

There have never been more demands on counselors, teachers, district and school leaders, and the other caring adults who support students and families in financial aid completion. It doesn't have to be. We're here to help.

Adapted from NCAN's FAFSA Season Opens October 1 – Here's How to Prepare and WSAC's 2023-24 Financial Aid Applications Open October 1: A Family Of Four Making Up To $107,000 Can Qualify For Aid In Washington