Bill > SB5543

This bill modifies the Washington College Bound Scholarship program to expand eligibility and clarify requirements for students. The bill allows students to qualify for the scholarship if they receive free or reduced-price lunches in ninth grade (even if they were ineligible in seventh or eighth grade), are in the foster care system, or were adopted between ages 14 and 18 with a specific adoption agreement. Starting with the 2023-24 academic year, students must graduate with at least a "C" average to be considered for direct admission to a four-year institution. The bill now explicitly includes students who have received a high school equivalency certificate as eligible, in addition to those graduating from public or private high schools or receiving home-based instruction. The scholarship continues to require that students have no felony convictions, be a Washington state resident, and come from a family with income not exceeding 65% of the state median family income. The scholarship covers the difference between tuition and fees, less other state-funded assistance, and provides an additional $500 for books and materials. Students must enroll within one year of high school graduation and can use the scholarship for up to six years or 150% of their program's published length.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5543&Year=2025&Initiative=false