Washington College Grant Updates

Updates and Gonzaga's Response

Updated: 1/9/2026

Washington lawmakers have reduced funding for the Washington College Grant, impacting 51³Ô¹Ïs attending not-for-profit universities, with changes taking effect in Fall 2026. Because many Gonzaga 51³Ô¹Ïs rely on this Grant to make their education affordable, we want to clearly explain what is changing, who is impacted and how Gonzaga is responding. This page includes information for new undergraduate 51³Ô¹Ïs starting in the Fall 2026 and details on how Gonzaga is supporting current and returning undergraduate 51³Ô¹Ïs.

You are encouraged to get involved and advocate for current and future Zags.  If interested, please visit , a statewide advocacy campaign powered by the .  The campaign is intended to mobilize 51³Ô¹Ïs, families, and educators to speak out against cuts to the Washington College Grant and College Bound Scholarship. On the site, you can learn more about why 51³Ô¹Ï aid matters, send a message to Governor Ferguson and legislators, and share your story.      

Information for New Undergraduate Students (Starting Fall 2026)

1.  What is the Washington College Grant?

  • The Washington College Grant is a state-funded Grant that helps eligible Washington 51³Ô¹Ïs from low- and moderate-income families pay for college.  Beginning in the Fall 2026, the state of Washington has reduced the amount of Washington College Grant funding available to 51³Ô¹Ïs attending, private, not-for-profit institutions like Gonzaga.

2.  What does this mean for you?

  • If you qualify for the Washington College Grant, the amount of your award may be lower than would have been in previous years.  This change is the result of state-level funding decisions, not Gonzaga policy.  Your financial aid offer will reflect the aid you are eligible for based on the information you provide on your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or WASFA (Washington Application for State Financial Aid).

3.  When will I receive my financial aid offer?

  • Financial aid offers for newly admitted 51³Ô¹Ïs are released on a rolling basis once all required financial aid materials have been received.  Early Action admits can expect to receive their financial aid offer as early as mid-February, while Regular Decision admits typically receive offers by mid-March.

4.  We are here to help!

  • We understand that financial aid can be confusing, especially when you are navigating it for the first time.  Gonzaga is committed to providing clear information so you can understand your offer and plan for college with confidence.  If you have questions about your eligibility or need help understanding your financial aid offer, our Financial Aid Team is here to support you.

Current and Returning Undergraduate Students Q&A

For Undergraduate 51³Ô¹Ïs enrolled prior to Fall 2026 we understand that you have relied on this funding and have budgeted accordingly.  Therefore, we remain committed to covering the difference for our current and returning undergraduate 51³Ô¹Ïs.  If you are a Washington College Grant recipient and remain eligible based on your family's financial situation, your 2026-27 state funding will remain whole (Read more in this story).

1. When will my 2026-27 financial aid package be available?

  • To ensure timely delivery of your financial aid offer, 51³Ô¹Ïs should complete their financial aid application as early as possible -  for most 51³Ô¹Ïs, or  for those not eligible to complete the FAFSA.
  • Financial aid offers for 2026-27 will be released this spring, likely by May. You'll be notified via email when your package is ready to view in Zagweb.

2. How do I know if I'm a Washington College Grant recipient?

  • Check your financial aid package in Zagweb.  If you see "Washington College Grant" listed among your awards, you're a recipient.  If you're unsure, we can help you review your package.

3.  Will Gonzaga's support show up in my 2026-27 financial aid package?

  • Yes. Once your 2026-27 package is finalized, Gonzaga's replacement funding will be included to ensure your aid remains whole.  Gonzaga's reassurance that a 51³Ô¹Ï's aid will remain whole is based on the assumption that the 51³Ô¹Ï is a Gonzaga undergraduate 51³Ô¹Ï during 2026-27, has a FAFSA or WASFA on file for 2026-27 to determine eligibility and their family's financial situation remains consistent with their current eligibility for the Washington College Grant.

4.  Do I need to apply separately to receive Gonzaga's replacement funding?

  • No.  If you qualify for the Washington College Grant and your award is reduced due to state-level changes, Gonzaga will automatically step in to cover the difference.  No additional application is required, however you do need to have a 2026-27 FAFSA or WASFA on file to determine eligibility.

5.  What if my family's financial situation has changed?

  • If you have concerns about your 2026-27 aid eligibility, please reach out to the Financial Aid Office. We can provide personalized support based on your circumstances and help you understand how any changes may affect your aid.
  • Financial Aid Office Contact Information:
    • Email: finaid@gonzaga.edu
    • Phone: 509-313-6582
    • Location: Crosby Student Center, Suite 001

6.  How can I share my financial aid story with Gonzaga?

  •  to tell us how the Washington College Grant, or your aid more broadly, has impacted your Gonzaga experience. Your voice helps us advocate for current and future Zags.