Undocumented Students/Dreamers

STATE FINANCIAL AID FOR DREAMERS

On February 26, 2014, Governor Jay Inslee signed into law the REAL Hope Act (SB 6523), also known as the Washington Dream Act. Beginning with the 2014-15 academic year, this new law expands eligibility for the Washington State Need Grant to non-citizens who meet the program’s eligibility requirements in addition to all three residency criteria listed below:

• Have graduated from a Washington high school or obtained a GED®

• Have lived in Washington for three years prior to, and continuously since, earning the high school diploma or equivalent.

• Sign an affidavit (written promise) to file an application to become a permanent resident of the United States when eligible to apply*.

*Students granted deferred action for childhood arrival (DACA) must also complete and sign the affidavit.

The Washington Student Achievement Council is currently developing a new state application for students who are unable to complete a FAFSA due to immigration status. This free application--known as the Washington Application for State Financial Aid, or the WASFA--will allow non-citizens to apply for student financial aid in Washington state. Upon successful completion of a WASFA, the college(s) chosen by the student will use the financial information provided in the application to determine eligibility to receive the Washington State Need Grant.

The WASFA is can be completed at: http://www.readysetgrad.org/wasfa

In addition to the WASFA, many colleges also require completion of an institutional financial aid application. Please contact your financial aid office for more information on financial aid deadlines and additional required forms.  

Note: Eligibility for the State Need Grant does not guarantee an award as the grant is awarded on a funds available basis. Students will have a better chance for consideration of limited State Need Grant funds by applying as soon as the WASFA is available.

Checklist

To be considered for limited Washington State Need Grant funds you must:

• Complete the WASFA– this is instead of the FAFSA.

• Complete any additional financial aid application forms required by your college.

• Apply for admission to the participating college or university you wish to attend.

• Inquire about class registration.

• High school seniors are encouraged to create a profile on theWashboard.org for scholarship opportunities, and to check our college preparation timeline for more information.