State Financial Aid for DREAMers
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State Financial Aid for Undocumented Students and Other Select Applicants
The Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is for people who don’t file a federal FAFSA application. If you have completed the FAFSA, you have already applied for both federal and state financial aid and do not need to complete the WASFA unless the Financial Aid Office asks you to.
A person should complete the WASFA if they are undocumented, do not have a SSN, or do not qualify for federal financial aid because of their immigration status. The WASFA can also be used in limited circumstances by other select applicants who cannot or choose not to file a FAFSA.
People who complete a WASFA are applying only for state aid. If you are eligible for federal aid, you should complete the FAFSA in order to maximize financial aid awards. Students must be Washington residents to pay in-state tuition and get state financial aid. Both U.S. citizens and non-citizens can be Washington residents, including undocumented students.
In most cases, a Washington resident is someone who 1) lives in the state for one year immediately prior to starting their college or program and 2) has a high school diploma or equivalent. But there are other ways to be a resident. Learn more at the Seattle College’s Residency webpage.
Should you complete a FAFSA or a WASFA?
If you are unsure if you should complete a FAFSA or a WASFA, complete the WASFA Eligibility Questionnaire.