Your Career Funded: Career & Technical Scholarship Applications Now Open!
Are you ready to take the next step toward a high-demand career in Washington state? 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, 2025, and close on April 15, 2025, at 9 p.m. Don’t miss your chance to apply!
What is the Career & Technical Scholarship?
The Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is one of three pathways offered by the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS) to help students prepare for high-demand careers. 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 the sponsor name in the eligible programs list.
CTS can help cover more than just tuition. It can be used for housing, transportation, food, and other expenses, ensuring that you have the resources you need to thrive. With over 2,000 eligible programs, CTS offers flexible options to meet your goals.
If you’re considering an associate degree, certificate, or apprenticeship, CTS might be the perfect fit for you!
Learn more about the Career & Technical Scholarship and apply by April 15, 2025 at 9 p.m.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: March 18, 2025
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2025, at 9 p.m.
- 2025-26 FAFSA/WASFA Completion Deadline: April 29, 2025
- Selection Notification: Late May 2025
Tip: Complete your FAFSA or WASFA as early as possible to avoid delays.
Interested in a bachelor’s degree? The Baccalaureate Scholarship (BaS) might be a better fit if you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree or planning to earn one immediately after completing your associate degree.
How to Apply
Applying for the Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is simple and straightforward!
- Confirm your eligibility.
- Complete the CTS application online.
- Submit your FAFSA or WASFA. There’s no need to send this information to WSOS — we’ll verify it for you.
Application Tips
- Use the Application Guide to prepare for the short answer section. We’re not grading for grammar—we want to hear your story!
- No references or transcripts are required.
- The application takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete. You can save your progress and return to it later, as long as you submit by the deadline.
- After you hit “Submit Application,” check your inbox (and spam folder) for a confirmation email.
Rural Jobs Initiative (RJI)
If you live in a rural community, you may also qualify for the Rural Jobs Initiative (RJI). This program offers increased funding to Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) recipients to help rural students 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 graduate. There’s no separate application for RJI — just apply for CTS and then if you qualify, you’ll automatically be considered.
What programs are eligible for RJI?
Visit the CTS eligible programs page, and refer to the Rural Jobs column to see if a program is eligible.
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.
Be sure to apply by the deadline, April 15, 2025, at 9 p.m., and take the first step toward your future!