Finding money for college shouldn't feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. If you're a Washington State student planning for higher education, you're in luck. I've compiled this comprehensive guide to help your family navigate the scholarships in Washington State landscape with confidence and clarity.
Washington State offers over 70 scholarship opportunities throughout the year. These range from small $500 awards to full-tuition packages worth tens of thousands of dollars. Whether your student is passionate about STEM, healthcare, the arts, agriculture, or community leadership, there are scholarships in Washington State designed for them. The key is knowing where to look and when to apply.
Quick Answer: Washington State students have access to 70+ scholarships in Washington State ranging from $500 to full tuition. Many deadlines fall between January and May, with applications requiring essays, transcripts, and GPA minimums typically between 2.5 and 3.5. Use the filters below to find scholarships in Washington State by deadline month and award amount.
How to Use This Guide
I've organized all scholarships in Washington State below with interactive filters. You can search by deadline month, award amount, or both simultaneously. This helps you find opportunities that match your student's timeline and financial needs.
Click on any "Apply" button to visit the official scholarship website. Many deadlines repeat annually. If a deadline has passed, the sponsor will likely update it for the current school year. Always verify details on the official website before applying.
Filter Scholarships in Washington State by Deadline and Amount
| Scholarship Name | Amount | Deadline | Eligibility | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pride Foundation Scholarships | Varies | January 10th | The Pride Foundation Scholarships award financial support to young students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Applicants must be pursuing a post-secondary institution and reside in the eligible states, which includes Washington. Students must demonstrate academic achievement and a commitment to LGBTQ+ community leadership and advocacy. | Apply |
| The GSBA Scholarship Fund | Varies | January 10th | The GSBA Scholarship Fund offers multiple amounts of financial support to students who identify as LGBTQ+ or as allies to the movement. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement, strong academic abilities, and leadership. Washington State students pursuing post-secondary education are encouraged to apply. Award amounts vary based on applicant qualifications and available funding. | Apply |
| InspirASIAN Scholarship Program | Varies | January 31st | The InspirASIAN Scholarship Program awards varying amounts of financial support to graduating high school seniors of any cultural background. Applicants must demonstrate academic success with a minimum 3.40 GPA. Eligible individuals must reside within one of the listed states that have an active InspirASIAN chapter. Washington State is among the eligible states. | Apply |
| WSU Arthur and Doreen Parrett Scholarship | Varies | January 31st | The WSU Arthur and Doreen Parrett Scholarship provides various amounts of financial support to students who are seeking a career in engineering, sciences, pre-medicine, or pre-dentistry. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at Washington State University and be at least in their sophomore year of education. Award amounts vary based on available funding and applicant qualifications. | Apply |
| The Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber Scholarship | $2,000–$6,000 | January 2026 | The Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber Scholarship awards $2,000 to $6,000 to Hispanic/Latino college or graduate students who have attended a high school in Oregon or Clark County, WA. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, demonstrate a commitment to community service, and be enrolled in a college or university for the upcoming fall semester. The application opens in December and closes in January 2026. | Apply |
| Abby's Closet Dreams Scholarship | Varies | February 2nd | Abby's Closet Dreams Scholarship awards financial support to one high school female student who is enrolled in her senior year. Applicants must be planning to enroll in a post-secondary institution and have a minimum 2.5 GPA. Only individuals who reside in Washington or Oregon are eligible. The scholarship supports young women who demonstrate drive and a commitment to furthering their education. | Apply |
| Washington State Opportunity Scholarship – Baccalaureate (BaS) | Up to $22,500 | February 26th | The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship Baccalaureate pathway is one of three WSOS pathways to high-demand careers in Washington. It offers up to $22,500 in scholarships for eligible STEM or health care majors, plus support services. Funds can cover more than tuition, including housing, food, and transportation, at any eligible college in the state. Applicants must be Washington state residents with a minimum 2.8 GPA and family income below 125% of the state median. High school seniors, recent graduates, and current college freshmen or sophomores are eligible. Applicants must submit FAFSA or WASFA. | Apply |
| The Washington State Baccalaureate Scholarship | $22,500 | February 26th | The Washington State Baccalaureate Scholarship offers $22,500 to eligible Washington state residents pursuing degrees in STEM or healthcare fields. Applicants must be high school seniors, recent graduates, or college freshmen/sophomores with a minimum GPA of 2.8 and family income below 125% of the state median. To apply, submit the FAFSA or WASFA, along with an essay, transcript, and proof of enrollment by the deadline, expected in February. | Apply |
| WAEF Scholarships | Varies | March 1st | The Washington Agricultural Education Foundation offers multiple scholarships, including the Brian Kershaw Memorial Fund and the Douglas Fruit and Fruit Packers Supply Scholarship, to Washington residents who are directly related to the fruit industry. Applicants who are seeking a career in the fruit industry are also eligible. One application is used to apply for all available WAEF scholarships to determine eligibility. Additional requirements may apply per scholarship. | Apply |
| Washington HECB American Indian Endowed Scholarship | $500–$2,000 | March 3rd | The Washington HECB American Indian Endowed Scholarship provides awards from $500 to $2,000 to students who have a strong social and cultural connection to a Washington State American Indian community. Applicants must submit their FAFSA application, enroll full-time at a Washington state college or university, and plan to use their education to benefit the American Indian community. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. | Apply |
| NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarships | $3,500 | March 21st | The NIADA Foundation Regional Scholarships offer high school students who are enrolled in their senior year $3,500 in financial support. Applicants must demonstrate academic success and the potential for handling college-level courses. Strong application essays and academic records are encouraged. The scholarship supports students entering any field of study at an accredited post-secondary institution. | Apply |
| Sub Pop Loser Scholarship | $18,000 total | March 18th | The Sub Pop Loser Scholarship provides a total of $18,000 distributed to three high school seniors who express genuine interest in art and music. Applicants must submit an original essay and reside in Washington or Oregon. The scholarship celebrates creative pursuits and supports students committed to building careers in music, the arts, or related fields. Each winner receives $6,000. | Apply |
| Hearthstone Housing Foundation Scholarship Fund | $500–$5,000 | March 31st | The Hearthstone Housing Foundation Scholarship Fund provides $500 to $5,000 to students who live in a Hearthstone Housing Foundation property or a nearby Hearthstone community location. Applicants must be enrolled full-time, demonstrate financial need, and have at least a 2.75 GPA for high school students or a 3.0 GPA for current college students. Students must show commitment to their academic goals and community involvement. | Apply |
| The Scottish Rite Scholarship Foundation of Washington | $3,000/yr | March 31st | The Scottish Rite Scholarship Foundation of Washington awards $3,000 per year to students who are at least in their junior year at a Washington college or university. Applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA and reside in Washington State. The scholarship is renewable for qualifying students who maintain their academic standing and meet the program's ongoing requirements. | Apply |
| Tukwila City of Opportunity Scholarship | $1,000–$5,000 | March 31st | The Tukwila City of Opportunity Scholarship awards $1,000 to $5,000 to high school seniors seeking enrollment at a university or college. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, complete a minimum of 15 hours of community service, and reside in the City of Tukwila, Washington. The scholarship is designed to support local students in achieving their college ambitions. | Apply |
| CBC Spouses Education Scholarship | Varies | March 29th | The Congressional Black Caucus Spouses Education Scholarship awards financial support to African American and Black students seeking a full-time post-secondary education. Applicants must demonstrate leadership qualities, maintain at least a 2.5 GPA, and reside in a CBC member's congressional district. Washington State students in eligible congressional districts are encouraged to apply. Award amounts vary annually. | Apply |
| The Bernie Minsk Scholarship | $2,000–$15,000 | March (varies) | The Bernie Minsk Scholarship, offered through the Seattle Foundation, awards between $2,000 and $15,000 to Washington State high school seniors who are involved in the Rainier Scholars program. Preference is given to Garfield High School students, but all eligible Rainier Scholars are encouraged to apply. This renewable scholarship honors Bernie Minsk's legacy of community leadership and aims to support underrepresented students on their college journey. | Apply |
| The Everett & Roy Hill Music Scholarship | Up to $9,000 | March (varies) | The Everett & Roy Hill Music Scholarship awards up to $9,000 over two years to graduating high school seniors in Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan County, Washington, who plan to major or minor in music at a post-secondary institution. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA to renew the award for the second year. The application opens January 1st with a deadline expected in March. | Apply |
| Washington Wine Industry Foundation Scholarships | $2,000–$10,000 | April 8th | The Washington Wine Industry Foundation Scholarships provide multiple scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 to Washington state residents. Applicants must be planning to attend a post-secondary institution with studies related to viticulture, enology, wine business, or a related field. Additional requirements vary depending on the specific scholarship offered. Multiple awards are available through a single application. | Apply |
| Audria M. Edwards Scholarship Fund | Varies | April 1st | The Audria M. Edwards Scholarship Fund provides various scholarship awards to LGBTQI+ identifying students or individuals who are directly related to LGBTQI+ parents. Applicants must be planning to enroll in a post-secondary institution and have resided in Washington or Oregon for at least one year. The scholarship supports students pursuing higher education with a commitment to community and identity. Deadline is April 1st. | Apply |
| Candlelighters For Children With Cancer Continuing Education Scholarship | Varies | April 18th | The Candlelighters for Children with Cancer Continuing Education Scholarship provides various amounts of financial support to young cancer survivors pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old and registered with the Candlelighters program. The scholarship honors the perseverance of students who have overcome childhood cancer on their path to higher education. | Apply |
| Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program | $1,000 | April 21st | The Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship Program offers $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors who reside in the listed states, including Washington. Applicants must be enrolling in a four-year college and demonstrate financial need. Employees of Cathay Bank and their relatives are not eligible to apply. The scholarship supports students from diverse backgrounds pursuing higher education. | Apply |
| WWIN Star Scholarship | $5,000/yr | April 17th | The WWIN Star Scholarship provides $5,000 per year to female students who reside in Washington State and are pursuing their first postsecondary credential or bachelor's degree. Applicants must identify as a woman, be at least 18 years old, demonstrate financial need, submit their FAFSA or WASFA, and maintain at least a 2.50 GPA. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years at an eligible Washington college or university. | Apply |
| Incight Scholarship | Varies | April 15th | The Incight Scholarship gives various amounts of financial support to students with disabilities who reside in Washington, Oregon, or California. Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a post-secondary institution, including colleges, universities, trade schools, and vocational programs. The scholarship is funded by Incight, an organization that supports individuals with disabilities through employment, education, and independence. | Apply |
| Nellie Martin Carman Scholarship Fund | Varies | April 15th | The Nellie Martin Carman Scholarship Fund grants various amounts of financial support to students who are attending a Washington college full-time. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, be nominated by their school advisor, and submit a letter of recommendation. The scholarship is renewable each year as long as the listed academic and enrollment requirements are met. | Apply |
| Celebrate The West High School Art Competition | $200–$1,500 | April 26th | The Celebrate The West High School Art Competition awards $1,500 to the first place winner, $750 to second place, $500 to third place, and $200 to additional finalists. Open to high school students residing in Western US states including Washington. Applicants must submit an original piece of 2D artwork that thoughtfully reflects an insight about the American West or the applicant's relationship to the West. | Apply |
| AISES Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Foundation Scholarship | $2,500/yr | April 30th | The AISES Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Foundation Scholarship awards $2,500 per year to American Indian students who reside in states serviced by Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Pacific Corporation, which includes Washington. Applicants must be pursuing one of the eligible degree programs and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The scholarship is renewable annually for qualifying students. | Apply |
| Robert J. Meyer Organic Farming Scholarship | Varies | April 30th | The Robert J. Meyer Organic Farming Scholarship offers various amounts of financial aid to students who are interested in organic agriculture and farming or ranching. Applicants must reside within the eligible Washington counties and be available for an in-person interview as part of the selection process. The scholarship supports students pursuing sustainable agriculture at the post-secondary level. | Apply |
| AAUW Scholarship for Women Enrolled in WA Public Colleges | $3,000–$15,000 | April 15th | The AAUW Scholarship for Women Enrolled in Washington Public Colleges awards $3,000 to $15,000 to female students residing in Washington State. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at a Washington public college or university and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA. The scholarship supports women pursuing undergraduate degrees with a focus on academic excellence and leadership potential. | Apply |
| IEEE PES Scholarship Plus Initiative | $2,000 | April 30th | The IEEE PES Scholarship Plus Initiative provides $2,000 toward professional mentorship, education expenses, and internship opportunities for students pursuing power engineering. Applicants must be enrolled full-time, attending power engineering courses, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also connects recipients with IEEE mentors and internship placements in the electric power industry. | Apply |
| IEEE PES G. Ray Ekenstam Memorial Scholarship | $5,000 | April 30th | The IEEE PES G. Ray Ekenstam Memorial Scholarship awards $5,000 for school expenses and an IEEE Student membership for one year. Applicants must be considering a career in electric power and energy engineering, working toward an electrical engineering bachelor's degree, and have a current GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship honors the legacy of G. Ray Ekenstam and supports the next generation of power engineering professionals. | Apply |
| The Audria M. Edwards Scholarship | $1,000–$5,000 | April (varies) | The Audria M. Edwards Scholarship offers seven awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for LGBTQIA+ students or children of LGBTQIA+ parents living in Oregon or southwest Washington. Open to high school seniors and current college students, the scholarship supports those pursuing higher education with a demonstrated commitment to community and identity. Applications open February 1st with an expected deadline in April. | Apply |
| The State Association of the Daughters of Pioneers of Washington Scholarship | $1,500 | April (varies) | The State Association of the Daughters of Pioneers of Washington Scholarship offers $1,500 to students who are descendants of Washington pioneers. Applicants must reside in Washington State for most scholarship opportunities within this program. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific scholarship track. Students with documented pioneer heritage in Washington are encouraged to apply. | Apply |
| Eastern Washington Section (ANS) Scholarships | $2,500 | May 23rd | The Eastern Washington Section American Nuclear Society (ANS) Scholarships encourage students to apply for a one-year scholarship of $2,500. The program is committed to encouraging students in Eastern Washington to enter the field of nuclear science, engineering, technology, or any nuclear-related field. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement and a genuine interest in pursuing a nuclear-related career path. | Apply |
| The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation | Up to $5,000 | May 9th | The Edmund F. Maxwell Foundation provides up to $5,000 per year to students who are residing in Western Washington. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and plan to enroll in a four-year college or university. The scholarship is merit and need-based and supports students in the greater Puget Sound region in achieving their higher education goals. The award may be renewed for qualifying students. | Apply |
| National Ocean Scholar Program | Varies | June 2nd | The National Ocean Scholar Program offers scholarships to students expressing an interest in marine or ocean fields of study. Applicants must display academic success and have participated in the National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) at least once during their high school career. Washington State students with a passion for marine science are encouraged to explore this opportunity. | Apply |
| Martin Honors Scholarship | Varies | July 1st | The Martin Honors Scholarship provides financial support to students currently attending a community college in Washington who are transferring to the University of Washington. Applicants must have earned at least 36 college credits, demonstrate meaningful community involvement, and have been accepted into the University of Washington. The scholarship supports community college transfer students in making the transition to a four-year university. | Apply |
| Stuck At Prom Scholarship Contest | $10,000 | July 9th | The Stuck At Prom Scholarship Contest awards $10,000 to the winner of a prom attire competition where students design their prom outfit using Duck Brand duct tape. Eight runner-ups also receive various amounts of prize money. The winner is decided by community online voting. Washington State high school students are eligible to apply and compete in this creative national competition. | Apply |
| Annie Ibok Scholarship | $1,000 | July 31st | The Annie Ibok Scholarship provides $1,000 to HBCU students who are attending a post-secondary institution in Washington or California. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. One letter of recommendation and a current resume must be submitted along with the application. The scholarship supports African American students pursuing higher education at historically Black colleges and universities. | Apply |
| ARC of Washington Trust Fund Research Grants | Up to $25,000 | July 31st | The ARC of Washington Trust Fund Research Grants give research grants up to $25,000 to researchers studying topics related to intellectual and developmental disabilities. Applicants must submit detailed documents discussing their research project, its academic significance, and its need for financial support. The grants support Washington State researchers contributing to the field of disability services and advocacy. | Apply |
| The WWIN Star Scholarship (July–December Notification) | Up to $5,000/yr | July–December | The WWIN Star Scholarship awards up to $5,000 per year, renewable for four years, to female Washington State residents pursuing their first postsecondary credential or bachelor's degree at an eligible Washington college. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, demonstrate financial need, and submit the FAFSA or WASFA along with other required documents. The application opens February 15th and winners are notified between July and December. | Apply |
| Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation Scholarship Program | Min. $10,000 | September 30th | The Northwest Osteopathic Medical Foundation Scholarship Program awards a minimum of $10,000 to osteopathic medical school students. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement and a commitment to practicing medicine in the Northwest states, including Washington. One letter of recommendation is also required as part of the application. The scholarship supports future osteopathic physicians committed to serving Pacific Northwest communities. | Apply |
| WABO Scholarship Program | $500/yr | October 10th | The WABO Scholarship Program awards $500 per year to students who are interested in the field of structural welding. Applicants must be currently enrolled at a WABO registered community or technical college in Washington State. The scholarship supports students pursuing careers in welding and construction trades at eligible technical training institutions. | Apply |
| Washington State Opportunity Scholarship – Career Technical (CTS) | Up to $1,500/qtr | October 16th | The Washington State Opportunity Scholarship Career Technical pathway is one of three WSOS pathways to high-demand careers in Washington. It offers up to $1,500 per quarter for eligible associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships at approved community or technical colleges. Funding can also be used at AJAC and Evergreen Rural Water of Washington programs. WSOS support covers more than tuition, including housing, food, and transportation expenses. | Apply |
| Helene M. Overly Memorial Graduate Scholarship | $10,000 | November 21st | The Helene M. Overly Memorial Graduate Scholarship awards $10,000 to graduate-level applicants pursuing careers in transportation or related fields. Applicants must meet specific academic and professional criteria set by the Women's Transportation Seminar (WTS) Foundation. The scholarship recognizes women who demonstrate strong potential to become future leaders in the transportation industry. Washington State graduate students are encouraged to apply. | Apply |
| The Herb Block Scholarship | $8,000–$16,000 | November (varies) | The Herb Block Scholarship awards up to 100 students each year with $8,000 to $16,000 to attend select community colleges in the Washington D.C. area and surrounding regions. Open to high school graduates, college underclassmen, and adult learners with financial need, this "last dollar" scholarship helps cover tuition after all other aid has been applied. The application opens March 1st with an expected deadline in November. | Apply |
| Hagan Scholarship | Up to $7,500/semester | December 1st | The Hagan Scholarship awards up to $7,500 each semester for up to eight consecutive semesters to high-achieving students from rural communities. Applicants must be attending a public high school governed by a school district. The scholarship supports rural Washington students in pursuing a four-year college education by providing substantial, renewable funding throughout their undergraduate years. | Apply |
| Washington State University Regents Scholars Program | Full Tuition or $4,000/yr | December 1st | The Washington State University Regents Scholars Program offers two award levels for incoming students. The Distinguished Regents Scholar covers full tuition and mandatory fees for four years. The Regents Scholar award provides $4,000 per academic year for four years. Both awards are competitive and based on academic excellence. Applicants must be admitted to Washington State University and meet the scholarship's academic criteria by the December 1st deadline. | Apply |
| TMCF Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program | Up to $10,000 | December 1st | The TMCF Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program offers up to $10,000 to 25 incoming full-time college students nationwide, including Washington State applicants. Students demonstrating leadership abilities and diversity are eligible from any state except Utah. Applicants must also be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant, demonstrating financial need as part of the selection criteria. | Apply |
| Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Wells Fargo Scholarship | Up to $7,500 | December 1st | The Thurgood Marshall College Fund Wells Fargo Scholarship awards up to $7,500 to students attending one of TMCF's member-schools. Applicants must submit a two-minute video responding to a provided statement as a key component of the application. The scholarship supports students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other TMCF member institutions in achieving their academic and professional goals. | Apply |
| The University of New Mexico Scholarships | Varies | December 1st | The University of New Mexico Scholarships are merit-based and competitive, with a limited number available each cycle. To be considered, applicants must meet the criteria for consideration, be admitted by the application deadline, and complete any required application materials. Scholarships are evaluated based on unweighted cumulative GPA and are renewable for four years for students who maintain eligibility requirements. | Apply |
| Simon Youth Greg Saunders Legacy Scholarship Program | Varies | Varies | The Simon Youth Greg Saunders Legacy Scholarship Program awards children of Simon Property Group employees a varied amount in financial support. Applicants must be younger than 24 years old and be a dependent of an employee who has been employed by Simon Property Group for at least one year. Washington State students living near a Simon mall are encouraged to check eligibility. | Apply |
| Washington College Grant | Varies | Varies (FAFSA) | The Washington College Grant provides financial support to Washington State students and may potentially cover full tuition for the most financially eligible applicants. Students must submit their FAFSA or WASFA application and demonstrate financial need. The grant will appear automatically on a student's financial aid award letter if they are eligible. Students do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. | Apply |
| WICHE Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) | Varies | Varies | The WICHE Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) offers Washington State students discounted tuition rates for programs at participating colleges and universities in other Western states. Eligible students may pay 150% of the in-state tuition rate at over 160 participating institutions rather than full out-of-state tuition. Further requirements apply and applicants must check their eligibility using the WUE savings finder provided on the WICHE website. | Apply |
| Grieg Lodge Educational Scholarship | $20,000 total | Varies | The Grieg Lodge Educational Scholarship provides a total of $20,000 to students seeking post-secondary education. Applicants must reside within the eligible states. Preference is given to individuals with a Nordic cultural or heritage connection, such as those with Scandinavian ancestry or involvement in Nordic cultural communities. Washington State residents are eligible to apply. | Apply |
| Matsuo Bridge Company Ltd. of Japan Scholarship | $2,500 | Varies | The Matsuo Bridge Company Ltd. of Japan Scholarship provides $2,500 to college and graduate students who are seeking a career in civil engineering, welding engineering, welding engineering technology, or a related field. Applicants must have graduated from high school and be enrolled part-time or full-time in a college or university program. Washington State students in engineering programs are encouraged to apply. | Apply |
| Stimson Bullitt Civic Courage Scholarship | $5,000 / $2,500 | Varies | The Stimson Bullitt Civic Courage Scholarship hosts an essay writing contest for students who reside in Seattle, Washington. $5,000 is awarded to the 1st place winner with $2,500 to the runner-ups. Applicants must be at least 13 years old and hold an active Seattle Public Library card. The scholarship celebrates civic engagement and the courage to speak up on important community issues. | Apply |
| Washington Council of Police & Sheriffs Scholarship | $1,000 | Varies | The Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs (WACOPS) Scholarship provides $1,000 to students who are children of WACOPS members. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence in their academic record. One letter of recommendation is also required as part of the application. The scholarship honors the service of Washington law enforcement officers by investing in their children's educational futures. | Apply |
| Sharon D. Banks Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship | $5,000 | Varies | The Sharon D. Banks Memorial Undergraduate Scholarship gives $5,000 to women who plan to pursue a career in transportation or a related field. Applicants must have a GPA of at least 3.0. Examples of eligible fields of study include transportation engineering, transportation planning, finance, or logistics. The scholarship is offered through the Women's Transportation Seminar (WTS) Foundation. | Apply |
| WTS Jannet Walker-Ford Leadership Legacy Scholarship for Graduates | $5,000 | Varies | The WTS Jannet Walker-Ford Leadership Legacy Scholarship gives $5,000 to female graduate students who plan to pursue a career in transportation or a related field. Applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. Eligible fields of study include transportation engineering, transportation planning, finance, or logistics. The scholarship supports women in graduate-level transportation studies through the WTS Foundation. | Apply |
| Gladys Heintz Memorial Scholarship | $1,000 | Varies | The Gladys Heintz Memorial Scholarship awards $1,000 to students who are members of The American Legion Boys Nation program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and meet the age requirements listed by the program. Washington State American Legion members and their families are encouraged to explore this opportunity. | Apply |
| Gritman Scholarships | $500–$2,000 | Varies | Gritman Scholarships give various awards to students seeking a career in the healthcare field. The amount of financial aid awarded is usually between $500 and $2,000. Additional requirements may be listed per scholarship track within the Gritman program. Washington State students pursuing nursing, allied health, or other healthcare careers are encouraged to check current offerings. | Apply |
| Hallie Price Visual Arts Scholarship | Varies | Varies | The Hallie Price Visual Arts Scholarship awards high school graduate students various amounts of financial support for pursuing visual arts education at the post-secondary level. Applicants must express genuine interest and demonstrated talent in the visual arts. One letter of recommendation must be submitted with the application to support the student's artistic background and potential. | Apply |
| OHDC-NFJP Scholarship for Farmworkers/Agriculture | Varies | Varies | The OHDC-NFJP Scholarship for Farmworkers and Agriculture provides scholarships to students who are seeking a profession in farmwork and agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be eligible to work in the United States. Washington State students from agricultural backgrounds or farmworker families are particularly encouraged to apply for this opportunity. | Apply |
| SAME Seattle Post and PSE & SSF Scholarships | $500–$5,000 | Varies | The SAME Seattle Post and PSE & SSF Scholarships offer multiple scholarships between $500 and $5,000 to students pursuing a career in science or engineering. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and active community involvement. Washington State students interested in STEM careers, particularly those with ties to the military engineering community, are encouraged to apply. | Apply |
| Tourette College Scholarship | Varies | Varies | The Tourette College Scholarship provides multiple scholarships to students who are diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. Applicants must be planning to attend a post-secondary institution and reside in an eligible state, which includes Washington. The scholarship supports students with Tourette syndrome in pursuing their educational goals and overcoming barriers to higher education access. | Apply |
| U.S. Army Loan Repayment Program | Up to 15% | Varies | The U.S. Army Loan Repayment Program offers partial payment of qualified student loans for individuals enlisting in the Army, covering up to 15% of loan balance per year of service. Applicants must enlist for at least six years, have attained a high school diploma, and qualify for specific military occupational specialties. Washington State students considering military service as part of their college funding plan may benefit from this program. | Apply |
| University of Washington Scholarships | Varies | Varies | The University of Washington offers multiple financial aid opportunities, including the UW Diversity Scholarship, to incoming and currently enrolled students. Applicants must be enrolling or planning to enroll at the University of Washington. Additional requirements vary depending on the specific scholarship. Washington State residents should explore UW's full scholarship database through the Office of Student Financial Aid. | Apply |
Making the Most of Scholarships in Washington State
I've worked with families who applied to 30 scholarships and won eight of them. Their secret wasn't luck — it was strategy. They treated scholarship applications like a part-time job, dedicating specific hours each week to researching scholarships in Washington State, writing, and submitting applications.
Start with scholarships in Washington State where your student is a perfect fit. If they're a first-generation college student, prioritize those. If they have a specific major in mind, focus on field-specific awards — from STEM and healthcare to agriculture and the arts. If they're involved in community service, lean into those scholarships heavily.
Keep a spreadsheet with deadline dates, required materials, and essay prompts. Many scholarships in Washington State ask similar questions, so your student can adapt one strong essay for multiple applications rather than starting from scratch each time.
Most importantly, apply even if your student doesn't meet every single requirement. Scholarship committees are looking for students who stand out in some way — whether that's through leadership, overcoming adversity, academic achievement, or community impact.
Washington State Financial Aid Programs
Beyond private scholarships, Washington State has an excellent ecosystem of state-funded financial aid programs that many families overlook. Understanding these programs is essential before your student begins applying for outside scholarships in Washington State.
Washington College Grant (WCG): This is Washington's primary need-based grant program, formerly known as the State Need Grant. It's available to low- and middle-income Washington residents enrolled in eligible certificate, training, or degree programs. Award amounts vary based on family income and institution type. Students don't apply separately — eligibility is determined automatically when a student submits the FAFSA or WASFA.
Washington College Bound Program: This pledge-based program encourages low-income 7th and 8th graders to commit early to college. Students who sign the pledge, maintain a 2.0 GPA, avoid felony convictions, and file the FAFSA upon graduation may receive funding to cover tuition, fees, and books at a Washington state college. Families should sign up as early as middle school.
Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS): This is one of the most substantial scholarships in Washington State for students pursuing STEM, healthcare, or career-technical pathways. There are three tracks: the Baccalaureate pathway (up to $22,500), the Bridge pathway for community college students transitioning to four-year programs, and the Career Technical pathway (up to $1,500 per quarter). All are worth pursuing.
Washington National Guard Grant: Members of the Washington National Guard may be eligible for the National Guard Postsecondary Education Grant, which helps cover the cost of an undergraduate degree or certificate at a Washington state institution. Contact the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) for current award amounts and eligibility details.
Tuition Waiver for Dependents of Veterans: Washington State offers tuition waivers for dependents of qualifying veterans at state public colleges and universities. Eligibility is based on the veteran's service record and disability rating. Families should contact their institution's financial aid office and the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs for details.
Passport to College: This program provides scholarships and support services for former foster youth and unaccompanied homeless youth attending Washington state colleges and universities. Eligible students receive a scholarship covering educational expenses plus priority consideration for the Washington College Grant.
WICHE Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE): Washington State students who want to attend college in another Western state can take advantage of WUE, which caps out-of-state tuition at 150% of in-state rates at over 160 participating institutions. This can represent significant savings for families considering out-of-state options in the Pacific Northwest or broader West.
County and Regional Scholarships in Washington State
Some of the most competitive scholarships in Washington State are actually local ones. Local scholarship committees often receive fewer applications than national ones, which means your student's odds of winning go up significantly. Here are key regional resources to check:
Seattle Foundation: The Seattle Foundation manages dozens of named scholarship funds benefiting King County students. These range from community-specific awards like the Bernie Minsk Scholarship (for Rainier Scholars) to healthcare-focused and arts-focused funds. Visit Seattle Foundation's scholarship page for current openings.
Community Foundation of North Central Washington: This foundation manages over 150 individual scholarship funds for students from North Central Washington, covering Chelan, Douglas, Okanogan, and Ferry counties. One application covers eligibility for multiple awards. Deadlines typically fall in late February or early March.
Community Foundation for Southwest Washington: Students in Clark County and surrounding areas should explore this foundation's scholarship portal. Awards range from arts scholarships to first-generation college student support. The application window typically runs December through April.
University of Washington Scholarship Database: UW maintains a large scholarship database through its Experian Scholarship Search, covering both institutional and external awards available to Washington State students.
Washington State University System Scholarships
Each of Washington's public universities maintains its own scholarship programs for incoming and returning students. The WSU General Scholarship Application is particularly valuable — one application opens the door to consideration for hundreds of different awards. The priority deadline is typically January 31st. University of Washington students should file both the UW merit scholarship application and the FAFSA early to maximize eligibility for institutional aid in addition to external scholarships in Washington State.
What to Do Next
Use the filters above to identify five to ten scholarships in Washington State that match your student's timeline and qualifications. Set aside time this week to start the first three applications. The sooner you begin, the more opportunities you'll have time to pursue.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the college admissions process and scholarship search, we can help. At Stand Out College Prep, we work with families to create a comprehensive plan that includes scholarship strategy, application support, and financial aid guidance. We help families find money they didn't know existed — and build applications that win it.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss how we can support your family through this process.
