It’s clear that post-high school education and/or training – whether that’s through an apprenticeship program, two-year degree program, or four-year degree program – is a key to future economic development in our region. Forecasts suggest that nearly three-quarters of job openings over the next several years will require education or training beyond just a high school diploma.

Our state recognizes this: Washington has some of the most generous state-based financial aid programs in the country. In combination with federal aid, state programs such as the WA Grant provide a pathway to affordable college for many Washington students.

The FAFSA/WASFA is a crucial step in the pathway from high school graduation to career readiness! Without completing the FAFSA/WAFSA, students won’t know how much aid they qualify for.

When communities come together to support FAFSA completion, the results can be powerful: higher rates of students and families filling out the FAFSA, and students who receive the education and training they need for career readiness.