-
Colleges
-
Graduate School
- Graduate School
- Scout Grad School Search Find and compare grad schools based on your preferences, goals and academic interests.
- $5,000 Grad School No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our $5,000 no essay grad school scholarship in 2 min or less.
- Graduate Degrees Explore graduate degree options that fit your goals.
- Paying for Graduate School Understand costs and explore ways to pay for grad school.
-
Scholarships
- Scholarships
- $2,000 No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our no essay $2,000 college scholarship in 2 minutes or less.
- Scholly Scholarships Easily find and sort through thousands of college scholarships for free.
- Scholarships for High School Seniors Explore scholarships for high school seniors and get tips on how to apply.
- Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships Apply for up to $0 in scholarships each month with just one form.
- $5,000 Grad School No Essay Scholarship Enter to win our $5,000 no essay grad school scholarship in 2 min or less.
-
Financial aid
- Financial Aid Grants, work-study, and federal student loans can all be part of your financial aid package.
- FAFSA® Guide Learn how to answer the 2026-27 FAFSA® questions like a pro.
- Financial Aid Offers Compare financial aid offers to determine the most affordable schools for you and your family.
- College Grants Learn more about federal and state grants and how to apply.
- Federal Pell Grants Discover what a Pell Grant is, who is eligible, and how to apply.
- Financial Aid Resources Get expert guidance on maximizing your financial aid options to make education more affordable.
-
Pay for School
- Sallie Mae® Student Loans
- Private Student Loans Find a private student loan designed to fit your needs.
- Undergrad Student Loan For college students earning a bachelor's or associate's degree.
- Graduate Student Loans Choose the right loan for your graduate degree or post-graduate studies.
- Career Training Loan For students taking professional training or certificate courses.
- Student Loan Resources Everything you need to navigate student loans with confidence.
Scholarships
Washington scholarships: Find free money for students
Here's a scholarship you can apply for in minutes.
Scholarships for Washington
8 days left!
Apply now
Sallie $2,000 No Essay Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
$2,000
8 days left!
Apply now
Robert and Margaret Pulliam Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$1,600
The Robert and Margaret Pulliam Scholarship was established to encourage and reward academic excellence and community service. Scholarship recipients must be graduating seniors from one of the following high schools: Castle Rock High School; Kalama High School; Kelso High School; Mark Morris High School; R. A. Long High School; or Wahkiakum High School. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Dick Streissguth Memorial Cadet Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$1,500
The Dick Streissguth Memorial Cadet Scholarship was established by People's Community Federal Credit Union in memory of Richard "Dick" Streissguth, who passed away in 2015. Dick served Clark County Fire District 6 for 61-years, moving from volunteer firefighter all the way to Fire Chief. Applicants must have completed, or will have completed prior to the receipt of the scholarship, any Fire Cadet program in Clark, Cowlitz, or Skamania County. They must continue their education at an accredited college, university, technical or career school during the upcoming school year. Graduating high school seniors and current college students are eligible to apply. Applicants may upload one letter of recommendation from a person who can speak to their character, leadership, talents, and academic record. Letters from immediate or extended family members will not be accepted. This letter is not required, but is strongly recommended. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington award's website for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Roy F. Mather Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
$3,500
The Roy F. Mather Scholarship is available to students who are pursuing a degree in engineering. Previous recipients of this scholarship may apply for additional awards each year they remain eligible. Renewal applicants will have special consideration or priority. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Jack and Carol Kelly Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
Varies
Jack and Carol Kelly established the Jack and Carol Kelly Scholarship in 2012 to provide scholarships for local students who plan to return and support their community after they complete their education. It is important that the students plan to pursue a degree, certificate, training, or apprenticeship in a vocational, technical, trade or business career. Applicants must have graduated (or be on track to graduate) from a high school located in the four county area of Clark County WA, Clackam...
8 days left!
Apply now
Pacific Northwest Gold Star Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$2,500
The Pacific Northwest Gold Star Scholarship was established by the Community Military Appreciation Committee (CMAC), which connects veteran advocacy organizations in and around southwest Washington. Applicants must be the child of a deceased parent who served in the U.S. armed forces in support of the Global War on Terror (2001-Present). Applicants may be either of the following: (1) Be a current or prior resident of Clark, Cowlitz, or Skamania County, WA. (2) The military service parent was a resident of Clark, Cowlitz, or Skamania County in Washington State; or had resided in one of those counties prior to entering military service. Applicants with significant financial need will be given preference. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Jill Ann Newman Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$2,000
The Jill Ann Newman Scholarship is available to graduating seniors from Montclair High School, Montclair, New Jersey who plan to pursue a career in education, with preference given to students specializing in elementary or special education. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement and have participated in various school activities. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington award's website for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
LSW Architects Legacy Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$2,500
The LSW Architects Legacy Scholarship was established in honor of LSW Architects' founding leaders and their ability to imagine and build in creative space. Students selected to receive this scholarship must be residents of southwest Washington; be a graduating senior or graduated high school (or equivalent) student, current college student, or graduate student. They must pursue an education that supports creative growth. Preference will be given to students demonstrating financial need. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington award's website for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Light the Way Teachers' Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
$5,000
The Light the Way Teachers' Scholarship is available to students who are current college students entering their third or fourth year of undergraduate coursework to obtain their bachelor's degree in education. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service and demonstrate financial need. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington award's website for more information.
8 days left!
Apply now
Charles Anderson Scholarship
Due: 4/30/26
|No Recommendations Required
|No min. GPA Required
$2,000
The Charles Anderson Scholarship is available to current college students who are children of members of First United Methodist Church in Vancouver, WA or are lineal descendants of life members of Mt. Hood Masonic Lodge No. 32. Renewal applicants must reapply each year, and will be considered alongside any new applicants. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington award's website for more information.
Key things to know about Washington scholarships
- Washington scholarships are free money for school. They help Washington students pay for tuition, books, and other school expenses, and you do not have to pay the money back.
- Scholarships aren't just for college freshmen. There are Washington scholarships for high school seniors, current college students, grad students, transfer students, career and technical students, and adults returning to school.
- You can often combine multiple awards. State programs, institutional scholarships, and private awards can sometimes be stacked together to bring down your total college costs.
- Need-based aid is a major part of Washington funding. Many Washington programs focus on financial need, though merit and program-specific awards also exist.
- Applying regularly can really add up. Submitting a few scholarship applications every month can snowball into meaningful savings on your college bill.
Paying for college can feel overwhelming. That's why maximizing free money you don't have to pay back—like scholarships and grants—should be part of your funding plan. If you live in Washington, you have access to scholarships created specifically with Washington students in mind.
The time you spend applying for Washington scholarships can really pay off. Sallie Mae’s How America Pays for College 2025 found that 75% of students who received a scholarship said it made college possible. Whether you are in high school, already in college, or heading back to the classroom after time away, scholarships can help you reduce what you pay out of pocket or borrow.
Enter to win a $2,000 scholarship
No essay | Apply in 2 minutes or less
What are Washington scholarships?
Washington scholarships are financial awards designed to help students cover the cost of college, graduate school, career training programs, or apprenticeships. These awards can come from many different places, including colleges and universities, nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and employers.
Unlike student loans, scholarship funds do not need to be repaid. While some awards do look at test scores or grades, many Washington scholarships focus on your story and experiences, such as:
- Community service, leadership, or extracurricular involvement
- Your intended major, field of study, or career interests
- Washington residency or a particular city, county, or region
- Identity-based criteria or connection to a specific community
- Workforce pathways, apprenticeships, or career training
- Artistic, athletic, or technical talents
Because eligibility can vary so much from one program to the next, students with many different backgrounds and goals can find scholarships that fit.
What scholarships are available for Washington students?
Most students see the best results when they apply to more than one type of scholarship at once. In Washington, scholarships generally fall into three broad groups: awards from colleges, local and community-based scholarships, and private or employer-sponsored programs.
To explore options that match your background, interests, and goals, you can use tools like Scholly Scholarships to find opportunities in Washington and across the country.
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS)
The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS) is a public-private program that supports Washington students preparing for high-demand careers, including many STEM and healthcare pathways. Depending on the scholarship track, awards may support community college, transfer routes, and bachelor’s degrees.
Because WSOS timelines and eligibility can vary by scholarship type, confirm the current application window and requirements on the official program site. If a deadline is not listed for your pathway, follow the next available application cycle.
College Bound Scholarship
The College Bound Scholarship is designed for Washington students who meet program requirements and want a clearer path to paying for college. Students typically sign up during middle school and then meet academic, residency, and enrollment conditions to receive the award.
If you are unsure whether you are enrolled or what steps you need to take next, check your status early and confirm deadlines before senior-year financial aid timelines.
theWashBoard.org local scholarships
theWashBoard.org is a Washington-based scholarship platform that connects students with local and regional opportunities funded by foundations, nonprofits, and community organizations. Creating a profile can help you find scholarships that match your location, interests, and academic plans.
Because local scholarship deadlines vary, set reminders for the awards you plan to apply to and track any recommendation or transcript requirements.
Private Washington scholarships
Private organizations, employers, and professional associations offer scholarships for Washington students in many fields, including business, education, trades, technology, and healthcare. Some awards focus on leadership, service, or overcoming challenges, not just GPA.
Review each scholarship carefully and apply early if the program lists rolling consideration or limited funding.
Institutional Scholarships
Many Washington colleges offer institutional scholarships for incoming and continuing students. Awards may be based on academics, major, leadership, research, or other campus priorities.
Students attending institutions such as the University of Washington or Washington State University may qualify for institutional scholarships through their financial aid offices and academic departments.
Some colleges automatically consider applicants for institutional scholarships as part of the admissions process, while others require a separate application. These awards may be based on academics, major, leadership, or other factors like talent or special involvement.
Examples include:
- Washington public universities: University-wide and departmental scholarships for new and continuing students
- Regional and state universities: Merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards
- Washington community and technical colleges: Foundation scholarships, donor-funded awards, and program-based support
- Private colleges: Institutional merit scholarships that may significantly lower published tuition
Still exploring your options? You can compare programs, costs, and average financial aid packages with Scout College Search.
Local and community scholarships in Washington
Local scholarships are sometimes less competitive because they draw from a smaller pool of applicants. These awards are typically created to support students from particular Washington cities, counties, school districts, or regions.
Local scholarships may be offered by:
- Community and regional foundations
- City or county agencies and organizations
- Cultural, heritage, or civic groups
- Labor unions and professional associations
- Local employers and small businesses
Additional financial aid resources in Washington
Alongside Washington scholarships, there are state programs that function as grants or tuition support rather than traditional scholarships.
Washington College Grant
The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) is a need-based state program that helps eligible Washington residents pay for career training, college, or apprenticeships. Students typically need to submit the FAFSA or WASFA to be considered.
Federal Pell Grant
The Federal Pell Grant is a need-based federal program that can help eligible Washington students pay for undergraduate education. Filing the FAFSA is required to be considered.
Scholly Scholarships
Find scholarships now
Find scholarships that are right for you
Easily search through thousands of college scholarships based on your background, major, state you live in, and more.
Hot tip! Smaller scholarships may have less competition, increasing your odds of winning.
How to apply for Washington scholarships
Breaking the process into smaller pieces can make applying for scholarships feel more manageable.
- Pull together key documents early, such as your transcript, activity list, resume, and a basic personal statement.
- Make a list of scholarships that fit your background, major, and goals, focusing on both statewide and local programs.
- Work through a few applications at a time so the process stays consistent but not overwhelming.
- Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) so you can be considered for need-based scholarships, grants, and other aid.
- Use a calendar, spreadsheet, or checklist to keep track of application requirements and deadlines.
- Read instructions carefully and double-check your application before you hit submit.
Looking for a faster way to get started? With Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, you can use a single application to apply to multiple scholarships at once.
Eligibility requirements for Washington scholarships
Each program sets its own rules, but many Washington scholarships share some common eligibility requirements, such as:
- Proof of Washington residency (for certain state and community-based programs)
- Enrollment or planned enrollment at an eligible Washington college, university, or training program
- Meeting minimum GPA or academic progress standards for merit-based awards
- Choosing a specific major, concentration, or career pathway
- Demonstrating financial need (for need-based scholarships and grants)
- Documented community service, leadership, or extracurricular involvement
Tips to improve your chances of winning scholarships
- Mix large and small scholarships.
Big awards are appealing, but smaller scholarships often receive fewer applications, and several smaller wins can add up. - Tune your scholarship essays to each opportunity.
Reusing core stories is fine — just tailor your essay so it clearly connects to the scholarship’s mission and values. - Request letters of recommendation early.
Giving teachers, counselors, or supervisors more time usually leads to stronger, more detailed letters. - Showcase your impact.
Highlight long-term involvement, leadership roles, and specific ways you have contributed to your school or community. - Complete the FAFSA as soon as you can.
Some forms of state and institutional aid are limited and may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
More scholarship resources
Oklahoma students can use these resources to locate scholarships that align with their major, experiences, and long-term plans.
- Scholarships by major
See scholarship options connected to your intended field of study. - Scholarships for high school seniors
Ideal if you are planning for college during your senior year of high school. - Scholarships for college students
Scholarship opportunities continue after freshman year — explore options for current undergraduates. - Scholarships for first-generation students
If you are the first in your family to attend college, these awards are designed with you in mind. - Scholarships for adults and returning learners
Find support if you are going back to school later in life or finishing a degree. - Scholarships for women
Explore scholarships that support women across a variety of majors and career paths. - LGBTQ+ scholarships
Discover scholarships that support students who identify as LGBTQ+ or who are allies. - STEM scholarships
Funding options for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or math degrees. - Scholarships for graduate students
Learn about scholarships that can help reduce the cost of master’s, PhD, or professional programs. - Scholarships for minority students
Scholarship programs supporting students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds. - Scholarships for Native American students
Opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students.
Your next steps
Washington scholarships can play a major role in making college, grad school, or career training more affordable. By combining state programs, institutional aid, local awards, and private scholarships — and by applying on a regular basis — you can lower how much you need to spend out of pocket or borrow.
To keep your search moving, look at monthly opportunities like Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, our $2,000 No Essay Scholarship, and $5,000 No Essay Grad School Scholarship. These low-effort options can help you start applying, even if you are short on time.
FAQs about Washington scholarships
What scholarships are available for Washington students?
Washington students can pursue programs like the Washington College Grant, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS), the College Bound Scholarship, local scholarships through theWashBoard.org, private Washington scholarships, and institutional scholarships from Washington colleges and universities.
What is the Washington College Grant?
The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) is a need-based state grant that can help eligible residents pay for career training, college, or apprenticeships. Students typically apply by submitting the FAFSA or WASFA.
What is the Washington State Opportunity Grant (WSOG)?
“WSOG” is sometimes used informally when students are referring to Washington opportunity-focused funding. If you mean the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS), it is a program that supports eligible Washington students pursuing high-demand career pathways. Always confirm the exact program name and requirements before you apply.
Are there scholarships for STEM students in Washington?
Yes. Washington offers STEM-focused support through programs like WSOS as well as institutional scholarships and private awards tied to high-demand majors.
What deadlines do most Washington scholarships follow?
Deadlines vary, but many Washington scholarships open in the fall and close between late winter and spring for the next academic year. Track each program’s deadlines and plan for FAFSA or WASFA priority dates.
What private scholarships are popular in Washington?
Students often find private scholarships through community foundations, local employers, professional associations, and local listings on theWashBoard.org.
Do Washington universities offer their own scholarships?
Yes. Colleges such as the University of Washington and Washington State University offer institutional scholarships that may be based on merit, need, major, leadership, or department-specific criteria.
Are there easy scholarships Washington students can apply for?
Yes. Some scholarships have shorter applications or no-essay requirements. You can also look at options like Scholly Easy Apply Scholarships, which let you apply to multiple scholarships with one streamlined application.
Need more money for college?
Private student loans can help you cover additional costs for school.
No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. See Official Rules and Entry Periods on each scholarship page.
FAFSA® is a registered service mark of U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid.