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Washington State financial aid updates

  1. Admissions & Financial Aid
  2. Scholarships
  3. Washington College Grant
  4. Washington State financial aid updates

Washington state lawmakers recently approved budget changes that will affect some forms of state financial aid for students at private, not-for-profit colleges and universities, beginning in Fall 2026. 

Financial transparency is key at Saint Martin's. We know financial aid is important for many of our Saints and want you to have clear and helpful information about what is changing. 

We know you may have questions, and we are here to help answer them. Rest assured that Saint Martin’s University is prepared to support you every step of the way.

Additional information on the Washington College Grant or College Bound Scholarship programs can be found below.

WA College Grant

Washington Student Achievement Council

What You Should Know

Two statewide financial aid programs, including the Washington College Grant (WCG) and the College Bound Scholarship (CBS), will see adjustments in eligibility and award amounts for students attending private, non-profit institutions. These programs are not going away, but some award levels and amounts will shift beginning with WCG changes in 2026-2027, followed by CBS changes in the 2027-2028 award year.

The state made these changes as part of a broader effort to close a budget gap. These adjustments affect students at private institutions across Washington and are not based on individual colleges or student performance.

Saint Martin’s remains committed to ensuring our Saints continue to have access to the support and resources they need.

Beginning in the 2026-2027 award year, students in the following groups may be impacted. 

  • Students receiving the Washington College Grant (WCG) at private, not-for-profit colleges and universities may see a reduction in the total award amount they are eligible for.
  • Income eligibility to qualify for the WCG will shift slightly, meaning some students may see adjustments to their awards.
  • Students attending for-profit colleges will no longer be eligible for the WCG.

Current financial aid packages for the 2025-2026 award year are not affected. Any changes will take effect in 2026-2027. Keep in mind that any changes for students will occur on an individual basis, as eligibility is specific for each student.

Our Financial Aid team will work closely with any Saint who may experience changes before new award amounts are implemented. Please make sure we have your 2026-2027 FAFSA/WASFA on file, so we can determine eligibility as soon as possible!

What is Saint Martin's doing to help?

Your financial wellbeing and ability to complete your education remain our top priorities. We are actively prepared to support our Saints in several ways.

  1. Personalized financial aid guidance

    Our financial aid counselors will help you understand how these changes may, or may not, affect your individual situation. A 2026-2027 FAFSA/WASFA is needed in order to assess any changes.

  2. Additional institutional aid

    We have created an institutional grant - the Saints Support Grant - which will be awarded to cover the difference of the reduction by the state. This grant will be awarded to individuals who are Washington College Grant eligible only. Students who are also receiving the College Bound Scholarship will not see a reduction in 2026-2027. 

  3. Financial wellness & planning support

    Workshops and one-on-one appointments can help with budgeting, planning ahead, and exploring creative funding options.

No student will navigate these changes alone. We are here to help you plan early and with confidence.

Supporting you through campus resources

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Office of Financial Aid

Get help with any questions, individualized planning, and discuss other financial resources.

Contact Financial Aid
Information

Is there anything I can do?

We are always looking for students and families to share their experiences and concerns regarding changes to WA state financial aid programs. Click the link below to stay informed or participate in statewide advocacy efforts!

Take Action

Reach out to us anytime with questions!