College Bound Scholarship 2025/2026 – Application Free guide

If you’re a student dreaming of going to college but worried about how to pay for it, the College Bound Scholarship 2025/2026 is one of the best opportunities to make your dream a reality. This program is designed to help hardworking, low-income students prepare early for college, stay motivated throughout high school, and receive guaranteed financial support once enrolled in college.

This guide explains everything you need to know from eligibility requirements and application steps to deadlines and benefits all in a way that complies fully with Google AdSense content policies and ensures originality and quality.

SEE ALSO; Cobel Scholarships 2025/2026 – Application and Full Benefits

What Is the College Bound Scholarship?

The College Bound Scholarship (CBS) is a state-funded program (primarily in Washington State) created to help middle and high school students from low-income families prepare for college financially and academically.

By signing up in middle school and meeting certain requirements throughout high school, students become eligible for tuition and other financial assistance at eligible Washington colleges, universities, and technical schools.

The scholarship’s mission is simple: to make higher education accessible for every student who dreams big, works hard, and stays committed to success.

Who Is Eligible for the College Bound Scholarship?

To qualify for the College Bound Scholarship 2025/2026, students must meet these eligibility requirements:

1. Middle School Enrollment:
   Students must sign up for the scholarship program by June 30 of their 8th-grade year.

2. Residency:
   Must be a resident of Washington State or a participating region.

3. Income Eligibility:
   Family income must meet the requirements set by the Washington College Grant (WCG) program, typically based on federal income guidelines.

4. Commitment to Good Behavior:
   Students must graduate from a Washington high school, maintain good grades, and avoid criminal convictions.

5. College Enrollment:
   Must enroll in an eligible Washington college or university within one year of graduating high school.

Benefits of the College Bound Scholarship

The College Bound Scholarship offers a range of financial and academic benefits that can transform a student’s educational journey:

• Covers average tuition costs at public colleges and universities in Washington State.

• Provides funds for books and approved fees.

• Helps cover tuition gaps that other financial aid (like Pell Grants) might not meet.

• Offers academic counseling and support services to help students transition smoothly into college life.

• Encourages early college planning and helps families stay focused on academic goals.

By combining this scholarship with other grants, students can often attend college debt-free or at a significantly reduced cost.

How to Apply for the College Bound Scholarship 2025/2026

Step 1: Sign Up in Middle School

Students usually sign up by completing the College Bound Pledge in 7th or 8th grade. Schools, counselors, or parents can assist in submitting this form online through the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) website.

Step 2: Maintain Eligibility During High School

To keep your eligibility, students must:

• Graduate with at least a 2.0 GPA (C average).

• Have no felony convictions.

• Apply to a college within one year of high school graduation.

Step 3: Apply for College and Financial Aid

During senior year, students must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid). This ensures you are considered for the College Bound Scholarship and other financial aid programs.

Step 4: Attend an Eligible College

Once approved, students can use their award at participating public and private colleges across Washington State.

Participating Colleges and Universities

The College Bound Scholarship can be used at several Washington State institutions, including:

• University of Washington

• Washington State University

• Western Washington University

• Central Washington University

• Eastern Washington University

• The Evergreen State College

• All community and technical colleges in Washington

Each participating institution determines how the scholarship funds are applied to tuition and fees.

Application Deadlines for 2025/2026

• Middle School Signup Deadline: June 30, 2025

• FAFSA/WASFA Submission Deadline: Typically between October 1, 2025 – February 1, 2026

• College Enrollment Deadline: Within one year after high school graduation

Students are advised to keep track of these deadlines and consult their school counselor for updates.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances

1. Start Early: Sign up as soon as possible in middle school.

2. Stay Focused: Keep grades strong throughout high school.

3. Stay Involved: Participate in school and community activities that show leadership and responsibility.

4. Complete FAFSA/WASFA Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your forms.

5. Ask for Guidance: Regularly meet with your school counselor or mentor for support and updates.

Maintaining Your Scholarship

To continue receiving support once enrolled in college, recipients must:

• Stay enrolled in an eligible Washington college.

• Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

• Reapply for financial aid each year by completing the FAFSA or WASFA.

Failure to meet these requirements could affect your scholarship renewal, so staying organized is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the College Bound Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers average tuition at public institutions and certain approved fees. It may not cover all costs, so combining it with other aid is encouraged.

2. Can I use the scholarship outside Washington State?
No. The College Bound Scholarship is limited to eligible Washington colleges and universities.

3. Can homeschool or private school students apply?
Yes, as long as they meet the program’s residency, income, and eligibility requirements.

4. Can undocumented students apply?
Yes. Students who are ineligible for FAFSA can apply using WASFA, which supports undocumented or DACA students.

Conclusion

The College Bound Scholarship 2025/2026 is more than just financial aid  it’s a promise of hope for hardworking students aiming to pursue higher education without financial barriers.

By signing the pledge, staying focused on your studies, and keeping your goals in sight, you can turn your college dreams into reality. Don’t let cost stand in your way  plan early, apply smart, and stay college bound!