Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) Grant

The Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is a vital initiative by the Washington State Opportunity Foundation, providing up to $1,500 per quarter to support Washington residents pursuing associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships in high-demand STEM and trade careers. This scholarship aims to promote equitable access to education for historically excluded students while addressing workforce needs. Beyond tuition, CTS funding can cover essential costs like housing and transportation, fostering a more inclusive talent pool for Washington's businesses.

WSOS is the first public-private scholarship program dedicated to building lasting pathways to post-secondary education and high-demand STEM and trade careers for all Washington students. We accelerate equitable change for historically excluded students and increase the local talent pool for Washington businesses.
CTS is one of three pathways to high-demand careers in Washington state offered by WSOS. This scholarship provides up to $1,500 per quarter, every quarter, toward eligible associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships at eligible community or technical colleges. CTS funding can also be used at two apprenticeship sponsors AJAC Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Evergreen Rural Water. WSOS can cover costs beyond tuition, such as housing, transportation, food, and more.

Eligibility

Residency:You must be a Washington resident. In most cases, a Washington resident lives in the state for one year immediately before starting college or a program. WSOS accepts undocumented applicants.Financial need:
Meet the following income limitations:Have a family income (adjusted gross income plus all untaxed income) that does not exceed 125% of Washington state median family income based on family size.When viewing the family income limits, applicants should use the income reported on their family tax returns and the 2025-26 FAFSA/WASFA.Dependent students will report their total family income reported by their parent(s)/guardian(s), while independent students will report their own total family income.Complete the 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) by the deadline.Education plan:
This scholarship provides up to $1,500 per quarter, every quarter, toward eligible associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships at eligible community or technical colleges. CTS funding can also be used at two apprenticeship sponsors AJAC Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Evergreen Rural Water. Search sponsor name in eligible programs list.You don’t intend to earn a bachelor’s degree immediately after completing your program. If you do, apply for the Baccalaureate Scholarship.Plan to enroll in at least three credits every fall, winter, and spring term. Scholars enrolled in eligible apprenticeship programs may be exempt from this policy. Previous education:
Do not have a bachelor’s degree.Have earned or will earn a high school credential by June of the year that you apply. The high school credential doesn’t have to be from a Washington state institution.