Homeschooling families in Washington State often wonder about available financial aid and scholarships for their students. Fortunately, there are several scholarship opportunities designed to support homeschool students in their academic pursuits. Below are some of the best scholarships and programs available for homeschoolers in Washington.
1. Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS)
Description: WSOS provides financial support for students pursuing degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and healthcare fields.
- Eligibility:
- Must have graduated from a Washington State high school or equivalent (including homeschool)
- Must come from a low-income family
- Must pursue a STEM or healthcare-related major at a Washington college
- Award Amount: Up to $22,500
- Website: https://www.waopportunityscholarship.org
2. Washington Homeschool Organization (WHO) Scholarships
Description: The Washington Homeschool Organization (WHO) provides scholarships to support homeschool students pursuing further education, whether in college, vocational training, or artistic endeavors.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a homeschool student in Washington
- WHO membership may be required
- Award Amount: Varies depending on the program
- Website: https://washhomeschool.org
3. College Bound Scholarship
Description: This scholarship helps low-income students, including homeschoolers, afford college tuition. It requires early enrollment during middle school.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a resident of Washington State
- Must sign up during 7th or 8th grade
- Must meet financial eligibility criteria
- Award Amount: Covers tuition at Washington public colleges for up to four years
- Website: https://wsac.wa.gov/college-bound
4. Running Start Program (Tuition-Free College Courses)
Description: Running Start allows high school juniors and seniors, including homeschoolers, to take college courses at Washington community colleges while earning both high school and college credits.
- Eligibility:
- Must be in 11th or 12th grade
- Must reside in Washington State
- Benefits: Free college tuition for eligible courses (students may need to cover books and fees)
- Website: https://www.sbctc.edu/colleges-staff/programs-services/running-start/default.aspx
5. Community Foundation Scholarships
Description: Many local community foundations in Washington provide scholarships for students, including homeschoolers.
- Eligibility:
- Varies by location and foundation
- Open to homeschool students in many cases
- Website: Check with your local community foundation (Example: Seattle Foundation – https://www.seattlefoundation.org)
6. HSLDA Compassion Grants
Description: The Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) offers financial assistance to homeschool families in need, including scholarships for continuing education.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a homeschool student
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Award Amount: Varies
- Website: https://hslda.org
7. National Merit Scholarship Program
Description: Homeschool students in Washington can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship by taking the PSAT/NMSQT and achieving a high score.
- Eligibility:
- Must take the PSAT/NMSQT in junior year
- Must meet National Merit Corporation’s score criteria
- Award Amount: Varies, up to full tuition at some colleges
- Website: https://www.nationalmerit.org
8. Private Organization Scholarships for Homeschoolers
Several private organizations also offer scholarships to homeschool students:
- The Homeschool Foundation Scholarships
- Supports homeschool families facing financial hardship
- https://homeschoolfoundation.org
- The Sonlight Scholarship
- Awarded to homeschool students based on academic excellence and leadership
- https://www.sonlight.com
- The Patrick Henry College Scholarship for Homeschoolers
- Specifically for homeschool graduates attending Patrick Henry College
- https://www.phc.edu
Final Thoughts
Homeschooled students in Washington State have access to a variety of scholarships and educational programs that can help them pursue their academic goals. Whether you are looking for tuition assistance for college, vocational training, or other forms of education, these opportunities provide valuable support. Be sure to check eligibility requirements and deadlines to maximize your chances of securing financial aid!
