FAFSA & WAFSA AWARENESS

Breaking down barriers to higher education by helping Washington students navigate financial aid.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WAFSA) are critical tools for accessing higher education, but many students don't know how to navigate these complex forms or understand their eligibility.


Washington Youth Alliance is committed to ensuring every student has the information and support they need to access financial aid and pursue their educational goals.

UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

FAFSA (FEDERAL)

• Required for federal financial aid


• Available to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens


• Opens October 1st each year



• Required for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study

WAFSA (WASHINGTON)

• For students who don't qualify for federal aid


• Available to undocumented students


• Opens October 1st each year



• Required for Washington State Need Grant and other state aid

WHAT YOU NEED TO APPLY

STUDENT INFORMATION

• Social Security Number (or ITIN for WAFSA)


• Date of Birth


• 2022 Federal Tax Returns, W-2, 1099, and/or 1065 forms


• Cash, Savings, and Checking Balances



• Investments/Net Worth

PARENT INFORMATION (IF APPLICABLE)

• Social Security Number (or ITIN for WAFSA)


• Date of Birth


• 2022 Federal Tax Returns, W-2, 1099, and/or 1065 forms


• Cash, Savings, and Checking Balances



• Investments/Net Worth

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

01

STUDENT SIGNATURE

Sign the application electronically using your FSA ID. This is required to complete your application.

02

DEADLINES MATTER

Meeting your school's priority deadline, making timely updates, and submitting additional paperwork can significantly impact your financial aid.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

FAFSA WEBSITE

Complete your federal financial aid application and access comprehensive resources.

WAFSA WEBSITE

Complete your Washington state financial aid application and learn about state-specific aid.

NEED HELP WITH YOUR APPLICATION?

Don't let financial aid applications stand between you and your educational goals. Get the support you need.