At FuturesNW, we believe every student deserves the chance to pursue the postsecondary education that best fits their goals, without financial barriers standing in the way. Unfortunately, recent state budget cuts threaten to reduce vital student aid for thousands of young people across Washington, particularly those attending private, not-for-profit colleges and universities.
Beginning in Fall 2026, cuts to the Washington College Grant and College Bound Scholarship programs are set to take effect. These programs have long been cornerstones of equity and opportunity, supporting students of color, first-generation students, and low-income families in achieving their educational dreams.
Here’s why these cuts matter:
67% of affected students are students of color
65% are women
62% are the first in their families to attend college
Losing access to this support will force many students to take on more debt, leave school early, or abandon their plans altogether. This goes against our state’s stated values of equity, opportunity, and building a strong workforce for the future.
That’s why FuturesNW is proud to join Independent Colleges of Washington and many other partners in calling on Governor Bob Ferguson to fully restore and index funding for these aid programs in his upcoming supplemental budget proposal.
We also want to highlight SaveStudentAid.org, a new student-focused hub for grassroots engagement where you can learn more about what’s at stake and how to take action.
Here’s how you can help:
Visit SaveStudentAid.org to learn more.
Share this issue with your networks, including students, families, educators, and community members need to know how these cuts will impact access to education.
Join us in urging Governor Ferguson to protect these essential programs for Washington students.
We remain committed to advocating for policies that open doors rather than close them. Together, we can make sure Washington keeps its promise to students: that higher education is for everyone, not just a privileged few.
