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.

• Understand financial aid options, including state programs, private scholarships, and student loans. Check out the new WCG video clips available in the WSAC Financial Aid Toolkit in seven languages
• Estimate your award with the financial aid calculator.
• Find a free, in-person, or virtual 12th Year Campaign event for help with your applications.
• Visit the 12th Year Campaign site for materials, support modules, translated resources, and more.
• View the 12th Year Padlet to get financial aid resources for students.
• Need more help? Contact Otter!  This free texting service helps Washington high school seniors navigate financial aid. Access via text message 24/7 by texting "Hi Otter" to 360-928-7281.  
• Sign up for NCAN's monthly emails with suggested tasks for K-12 practitioners.
• Use NCAN's FAFSA resource library, which has a monthly calendar of action items and resources.
• View this NCAN article outlining the new FAFSA multi-factor authentication or "two-step verification." This introduction will likely create barriers for students with limited internet/cell reception or districts with restrictive cell/internet policies. Get tips and resources to help ease this process.

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