Ensuring students access every dollar of financial aid available.
FAFSA Opens Doors connects families, schools, and community partners to maximize county-wide understanding and completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA), giving students the most financial resources possible for their learning.
Helping Students Launch Their Future
At LaunchNW, we’re here to support you on your journey from high school to what comes next—college, trade school, apprenticeships, or any pathway you choose. Our goal is to connect you with the tools, resources, and people who can help you reach your goals. You belong here, and your future matters.
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Student Resources
If you are unable to attend an event or speak with a counselor or financial aid expert, there are still resources to help you through your FAFSA or WASFA application. Explore a step-by-step guide on how to complete the 2025-26 FAFSA and more via the buttons below.
FAFSA Support Changes Lives
The following videos from Riverside High School highlight the powerful impact a community can have in opening doors of opportunity for students through FAFSA support.
A MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY:
Financial Aid Starts with FAFSA/WASFA
Completing the FAFSA or WASFA is the only way for Washington students to learn how much financial aid they qualify for. These applications open the door to federal, state, and institutional aid— including grants, scholarships, work‑study, and some types of loans.
Washington’s future workforce – and economy – depends on students accessing college and career training. Whether students pursue an apprenticeship, a technical credential, a two‑year degree, or a four‑year degree, these pathways prepare them for high‑demand careers.
Forecasts show that, by 2032, nearly 75% of job openings in Washington will require education or training beyond a high school diploma (Washington Roundtable, 2024).
Our state recognizes this: Washington is home to some of the most generous state‑based financial aid programs in the country. When combined with federal aid, many students receive substantial support that makes postsecondary education and career training more affordable.
The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) can be used for:
- Apprenticeships
- Workforce and technical training
- Certificate programs
- Community and technical colleges
- Four‑year colleges and universities
Filling out the FAFSA or WASFA is more than a financial aid task— it’s a milestone on the path from high school to career readiness. Students who complete a financial aid application are significantly more likely to enroll in and complete postsecondary programs.
When communities come together to support FAFSA completion, the results can be powerful: higher rates of students and families filling out the FAFSA, increased access to financial aid, and students who receive the education and training they need for career readiness. Supporting students through the financial aid process helps ensure they have the resources they need to succeed.
Career Explore NW: FAFSA and Career Pathways
Career Explore NW is a local resource that helps students discover career pathways that excite and interest them—and then shows the next steps to pursuing those careers. Students can explore what degrees, certifications, or training are required, how long it takes, the types of jobs available, expected pay, and even hear directly from local professionals sharing what they do for a living.
CAREER EXPLORE NW
FAFSA Informational Videos
As part of their work to support students’ futures, Career Explore NW partnered with local high schools to create a series of videos to highlight the importance of FAFSA, share practical tips, and feature local students explaining the process in multiple languages. Together, they make financial aid more approachable and help families take the first step toward opening doors to education and career opportunities.
We’re proud to feature these videos here to support students and families in our community.
Arabic
Marshallese
Spanish
Ukrainian
Our Partners
We are proud to work alongside the following organizations in this important effort. Click on the logos below to access the FAFSA or WASFA assistance information from our partners.
