Your dreams, backed by WSOS
The Career & Technical Scholarship application is now open for fall term!
Are you ready to take the next step toward a high-demand career? Are you curious about how to get a scholarship in Washington state? Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS) can help! The Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is your opportunity to pursue education and training in fields like STEM, health care, and the trades — without the burden of overwhelming expenses.
Applications for CTS open on March 18, 2026, and close on April 15, 2026, at 9 p.m.
What is the Career & Technical Scholarship?
CTS is one of three pathways to high-demand careers in Washington state offered by WSOS. This scholarship provides up to $1,500 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 — both of which can be found by searching their names in the eligible programs list.
CTS can be used for tuition, housing, transportation, food, and other expenses, ensuring that you have the resources you need to thrive while pursuing your career. With over 2,000 eligible programs, CTS offers flexible options to meet your goals.
If you’re interested in an associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship from a community or technical college or approved apprenticeship sponsor, then you should consider applying for CTS!
Interested in a bachelor’s degree? The Baccalaureate Scholarship (BaS) supports students pursuing a bachelor’s degree, including students planning to earn one immediately after completing an associate degree.
Important Dates
- Application opens: March 18, 2026
- Application deadline: April 15, 2026, at 9 p.m.
- 2025-26 FAFSA/WASFA Completion Deadline: April 22, 2026*
*Tip: File your FAFSA or WASFA as early as possible to avoid delays.
How to Apply
Applying for CTS is simple and straightforward!
- Confirm your eligibility.
- Complete the CTS application online.
- File your FAFSA or WASFA. There’s no need to send this information to WSOS — we’ll verify it separately.
Application Tips
- Use this guide for tips on preparing the short answer section. We aren’t scoring for grammar or writing ability! We want to learn about you and your story. The guide also provides guidelines on AI use in your short-answer essays.
- No references or transcripts are needed to apply!
- Once you fill out every part of the application and press “Submit Application,” your application will be complete, and you will get a confirmation email. Check your spam folder if you don’t see it right away.
- The application will take about 60 minutes to complete.
- You can start the application, save progress, and return to complete it later up until the application deadline.
Rural Jobs Initiative (RJI)
If you live in a rural community, you may also qualify for the Rural Jobs Initiative (RJI). This program provides additional funding to CTS recipients in rural areas to help them overcome unique challenges and earn credentials for high-demand jobs in their communities.
RJI recipients can receive up to $3,500 in their first quarter, up to $2,500 in their second quarter, and up to $2,000 per quarter until they complete their program. There’s no separate application for RJI — just apply for CTS, and if you qualify, you’ll automatically be considered.
Ready to Apply?
The future is yours to shape. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in health care, technology, or the trades, the Career & Technical Scholarship can help make it possible.
Mark your calendar: Applications are due April 15, 2026, at 9 p.m. Learn more and apply!