Research Guides: Financial Literacy: Paying for College

Paying for College

College Affordability and Transparency Center
Resources from the U.S. Department of Education.
Financial Aid Calculator for undergrad students in WA
This calculator offers an estimate of need-based financial aid from two specific sources. Other funding is available.
Financial Aid Resources in Washington
A guide to grants, scholarships, and loans from Washington Student Achievement Council.
Finding and Applying to Scholarships
A guide from StudentAid.gov
Getting Help to Pay for College in Washington
from the Washington Department of Financial Institutions
Kitsap Community Foundation Scholarships
These scholarships originate from many different funds at KCF, established by individual donors, families, and civic organizations.
Olympic College Foundation
The Olympic College Foundation awards more than 200 scholarships each year, based on need, merit, community service, and area of study.
Student Loan Advocate, Washington Student Achievement Council
Handles questions and complaints regarding student loans, provides information and resources, and educations the public about rights and responsibilities of borrowers.
Student Loans, which is right for you?
A guide from the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau
WashBoard (scholarship matching)
Matches Washington scholarship providers and seekers for free with no spam. Registration required.

FAFSA/WASFA

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is used to determine how much financial aid a student is eligible to receive. Students who don't file a FAFSA may be eligible for Washington State Financial Aid, by completing the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid).

This is the first of a series available in both English and Spanish available from the College Success Foundation.

You can also access their entire FAFSA/WASFA Video Series in YouTube.

The resources below offer more support with the FAFSA/WASFA:

Virtual FAFSA/WASFA Filing Help Events
The Washington Student Achievement Council hosts virtual events to help you understand the filing process.
Otterbot (financial aid text help from WSAC)
Otterbot is available for students and also for parents. Full details on the Washington Student Achievement Council website.
Financial Aid Resources for Students
A virtual bulletin board with resources for students, from the Washington Student Achievement Council.