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WA to guarantee college tuition for low-income students in 2026

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Published  December 11, 2024 2:35pm PST
Education
FOX 13 Seattle

WA to guarantee college for low-income families

Washington state will guarantee free college tuition to low-income students next year. The law was passed by the legislature last spring.

Washington state will guarantee free college tuition to low-income students beginning in the 2025-26 academic year.

The new law, House Bill 2214, signed this spring, aims to make higher education more accessible for low-income students by removing barriers to financial aid.

This law takes effect in 2026. Be sure to read up on our list of all the new Washington state laws set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

What is the new WA law that guarantees college tuition for low-income students?

Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, Washington students in grades 10 through 12 who receive Basic Food or Food Assistance Program (FAP) benefits will automatically qualify as income-eligible for the Washington College Grant (WCG), the state's largest financial aid program.

Under the new law, the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) will certify eligibility for students based on their participation in these public assistance programs. Students will also receive annual reminders to submit a FAFSA or WASFA application, which may qualify them for additional state and federal aid.

How much college financial aid will I receive in WA based on medium family income?

The WCG helps cover tuition and fees at public colleges for students who demonstrate financial need. For students in households earning between 0-55% of Washington's median family income (MFI), the WCG provides the maximum award. The grants can be used at any state-approved higher education institution, including apprenticeship programs.

  • 0-55% of state MFI: Maximum grant award amount
  • 56-60% of state MFI: 70% grant award amount
  • 61-65% of state MFI: 60% grant award amount
  • 66-70% of state MFI: 50% grant award amount
  • 71-75% of state MFI: 24.5% grant award amount
  • 76-100% of state MFI: 10% grant award amount

By streamlining access to the WCG, the state hopes to reduce financial barriers for students who may otherwise struggle to afford higher education.

The Source

  • Information for this article was sourced from the final bill report of House Bill 2214, as enacted by the Washington State Legislature.

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