Need-Based Aid

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Washington College code #002108
The FAFSA is used to collect financial information needed to determine a student’s eligibility for federal aid (Federal Pell, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), Federal William D. Ford Direct Loans). To be considered for maximum federal, state, and College financial aid, the FAFSA should be completed by the deadline listed below. Students who file the FAFSA after the printed deadline will be processed in the order received and, if eligible, funded to the extent permitted by the availability of remaining funds.

New students for Fall 2022 will be notified of financial aid decisions on a rolling basis beginning early in December

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Washington College code #002108
Students currently receiving assistance under the Federal Student Aid Programs (Pell Grant, SEOG, Direct Ford Loan, Parent PLUS loan, Work Study), the Maryland Educational Assistance Grant and Guaranteed Access Grant Programs, or the Washington College Need-Based Tuition Grant Program must complete the FAFSA each year. Since these awards are based on financial need, demonstrated need must be determined each year.

Please Note: In the event that there has been a significant change in family information reported on the FAFSA, or if the FAFSA is selected for federal verification by the U.S. Department of Education, additional documentation will be required. Students will be notified if additional information is needed.

Students who received no financial assistance during the fall semester, but who wish to be considered for need-based aid during the spring term, must file the FAFSA no later than November 1. Spring term awards are based upon the availability of funds as well as demonstrated need and academic achievement.

Upper class award notices are sent to returning students in June after the completion of spring semester courses.

Awarded to students who have financial need according to the FAFSA. These grants are renewable as long as the recipient continues to demonstrate need and maintains Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Award amounts are calculated using direct costs. If you move off campus at any point, your award may be adjusted due to a reduction in these costs. Direct costs include costs billed by the college such as tuition and fees, room and meals. 

WC Need-Based Grants do not need to be repaid.  However, the College hopes that recipients will recognize they have incurred an obligation and therefore subsequently contribute as they can to help ensure that the benefits they enjoyed are available to others.

Students who wish to be considered for Washington College Need-Based  Grants must complete the FAFSA by the annual published deadline date.

The Federal Pell Grant program makes funds available to undergraduate students to attend post-secondary institutions. Eligibility is based on financial need, and the application is through the FAFSA.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) program provides funds for grants to undergraduate students with great financial need. Application is through the normal financial aid application process of Washington College, and the awards are determined by the institution.

State Scholarships are available to some students through their individual state scholarship administrative offices. To compete for these state awards, students should contact their state scholarship administration to inquire about application procedures, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.

Washington College participates in the Federal Work-Study Program providing job opportunities on and off-campus for students who have financial need.

Work-study employees are paid for hours worked, and receive their award in a bi-weekly paycheck.