We envision a Washington where all residents have access to our state’s best jobs, and our companies have the diverse, local talent they need to innovate for the world.
Why WSOS?
THE PROBLEMS:
There are barriers in Washington state that limit people’s access to the training and education they need to fill the high-demand jobs that power our economy.
Businesses in Washington state are eager to fill trade, STEM, and health care jobs with talented local students, but there are currently not enough people graduating into high-demand jobs.
OUR SOLUTION:
Financial assistance + Mentorship + Career training
We offer financial aid, mentorship opportunities, and career training to holistically support Opportunity Scholars as they build their pathway to a high-demand career.
Our support is a fundamental reason why our Scholars graduate faster, take on less debt, and earn a higher average salary than their peers.
Our program is designed to deliver the best possible return for students, taxpayers, and private sector partners investing in Washington’s future workforce.
Important updates
The Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is now closed.
Please look for updates on your selection status in mid-November. The next CTS application will open in March 2025 for the fall 2025-26 quarter.
The Baccalaureate Scholarship (BaS) application for the 2025-26 academic year will open on January 8, 2025.
Meet Yesenia, Opportunity Scholar
“Receiving the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship meant a lot to me because I didn’t have to worry or stress about the financial burden that came along with pursuing a higher education. I benefited from the mentorship that WSOS provided by pairing me with a mentor that was working in the same field that I was interested in. It allowed me to network with a healthcare professional and I was able to receive a lot of feedback on what opportunities were available to me.
I feel very thankful to have been chosen to be an Opportunity Scholar because it allowed me to be part of professional development opportunities and also experience some very one-of-a-kind events.
Having my bachelor’s degree will help me reach my goals by being able to apply to a Physician Assistant program in the fall in the upcoming year.”
— Yesenia, Opportunity Scholar
Yesenia is currently working in the healthcare field as a part time Certified Nursing assistant and as a part time lab assistant (Phlebotomist).
Apply for a Scholarship
We offer three pathways to high-demand jobs in Washington state.
The Baccalaureate Scholarship
For Opportunity Scholars who intend to earn their bachelor’s degree — including those who want to transfer or receive their bachelor’s degree from a community college.
The Career & Technical Scholarship
For Opportunity Scholars who intend to earn their certificate, apprenticeship or associate degree.
The Graduate Scholarship
For Opportunity Scholars who intend to earn an advanced Nurse Practioner degree.
Want to get involved?
There are so many ways to help us champion Washington students!
Meet JoAnna, Opportunity Scholar
Help us promote our scholarships!
Impact
News & Updates
Catch up on our latest news and information.
Opportunity Scholars
Read Opportunity Scholar stories, and learn more about the next generation of Washington leaders.
Outcomes
Discover how our program has supported Opportunity Scholars, creating a strong, diverse workforce for our state.