6 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Washington

Students interested in earning a college degree without attending in-person classes can benefit from online learning opportunities. Accredited institutions nationwide offer online programs with flexible schedules that let enrollees access coursework from anywhere.

Many online schools also accept FAFSA to help students reduce tuition costs and other school expenses. If you want to pursue an online degree in Washington that accepts FAFSA, consider schools like Washington State University and Eastern Washington University.

Below, we'll explore online colleges that accept FAFSA. We'll also outline FAFSA eligibility requirements and the steps to apply for student aid. Our frequently asked questions can give you more information about using FAFSA for college in Washington.

6 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Washington

You can find affordable online colleges in Washington offering great educational opportunities at a reduced cost. Explore the list of accredited schools below to find an online degree program that accepts FAFSA.

1. Washington State University

Washington State University offers the WSU Global Campus for online students. Enrollees can pursue online bachelor's degrees in biology, criminal justice, English, and management information systems. Graduate degrees are available in agriculture, healthcare administration, and special education.

Online learners can apply for financial aid via the FAFSA form. Students receive financial aid awards based on full-time enrollment. Part-time students should contact Student Financial Services for more information.

2. Eastern Washington University

Undergraduate and graduate students attending Eastern Washington University can find great online learning opportunities. Bachelor's degrees include addiction studies, liberal arts, and health psychology. Graduate students can study history, library media, and accounting. Online certificate programs are also available.

This Washington college awards 75% of its students financial aid with 52% graduating debt-free. Aid options include grants, tuition waivers, scholarships, loans, and work-study jobs.

3. Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers online undergraduate and master's degree options. Bachelor of Arts programs are available in English language arts teaching, literature, and creative writing. Graduate students can study higher education and school administration.

Students seeking financial aid can fill out the FAFSA or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). Veterans, military personnel, undocumented college students, and international students can receive aid.

4. Whitworth University

Whitworth University has earned high marks for affordability. The school received a 2025 top-five ranking in the Best Value Schools in the West category from U.S. News & World Report.

Whitworth offers online four-year and master's degrees in human services, humanities, business administration, and business leadership. Students enjoy significant savings on their tuition costs. In 2023, first-year enrollees received average scholarships and grants upwards of $40,000.

5. Northwest University

Northwest University is a nonprofit Christian university with accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Enrollees can pursue business, leadership, and ministry bachelor's degrees online. Master's degrees are also available online.

Attendees can submit a FAFSA form to qualify for federal student aid or the WASFA for state aid. Federal grants include the Pell Grant and TEACH Grant. The Washington College Grant and the Washington Bridge Grant are state-based options.

6. City University of Seattle

The City University of Seattle offers some degrees with on-campus courses and some with online courses. Online associate degrees are available in business and general studies. Online bachelor's programs include business administration, applied computer science, and cybersecurity. Students can also pursue online master's and doctoral degrees.

FAFSA helps enrollees qualify for federal grants, work-study jobs, and loans. Students can also apply for state-based aid and institutional scholarships.

Other Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in the U.S.

Do you want to expand your search for accredited online colleges that accept FAFSA? The following schools offer online degrees nationwide and access to FAFSA funds.

1. University of Massachusetts

The University of Massachusetts Global offers dozens of online bachelor's degrees. Areas of study include criminal justice, early childhood education, and psychology. Online graduate degrees are available in education, counseling, and organizational leadership.

Online learners at UMass Global can qualify for federal financial aid. Students can also apply for private scholarships and tuition assistance with their employers. The university doesn't charge out-of-state and in-state tuition. All enrollees pay the same affordable rates.

2. Webster University

Webster University's 100% online degrees aim to help professionals advance their careers. Students can enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs in data analytics, information technology management, media productions, scriptwriting, and more.

At Webster, 97% of students receive financial aid. Scholarships, grants, college loans, and work-study jobs are available for undergraduate, graduate, and military-affiliated students.

3. Pennsylvania State University

The Pennsylvania State University's Penn State World Campus offers over 200 accredited online undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and minors. Areas of study include:

• education
• engineering
• homeland security
• business
• human resources
• nursing

Students pursuing degrees full-time or half-time are eligible for federal student aid at Penn State World Campus. Online learners must submit the FAFSA to qualify.

4. University of Florida

Undergraduate students at the University of Florida can pursue online bachelor's degrees in sport management, public relations, biology, anthropology, and more. Online master's degrees are available in biostatistics, English education, aerospace engineering, and beyond.

UF Online enrollees can reduce tuition costs with help from financial aid. Grants, loans, student employment, and scholarships are available. The Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships administers a limited number of privately funded scholarships.

Applying for FAFSA in Washington

Students must submit the FAFSA form to qualify for federal student aid in Washington. Below, we'll look at FAFSA eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Eligibility

To receive federal student aid, you must meet certain requirements established by the U.S. Department of Education. These include:

• demonstrating financial need for need-based federal aid programs
• having a valid Social Security number
• being a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• having a high school diploma (or equivalent)
• being enrolled in a degree or certificate program (or accepted for enrollment)

Steps To Apply

After ensuring you qualify for FAFSA student aid, applying is next. Steps include the following:

• create a StudentAid.gov account and Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID
• gather tax returns, bank account details, and other important documents from all contributors (student, parents, spouse, guardian, etc.)
• fill out the FAFSA (colleges to share financial aid details, contributors' information, financial information, etc.)
• sign and submit the FAFSA

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Washington

Washington students have access to several state-based financial aid programs that complement federal aid from FAFSA. These programs support learners at public and private institutions, including those enrolled in online degree programs.

Washington College Grant

The Washington College Grant is one of the most generous need-based aid programs in the country. It provides funding for eligible students pursuing certificates, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees at approved colleges.

Online learners can use this grant to pay for tuition, books, and other education-related expenses. Eligibility is determined through FAFSA or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) for students who are not eligible for federal aid.

College Bound Scholarship

The College Bound Scholarship is designed to help middle school students plan and pay for college. Eligible students pledge to graduate high school with good grades, avoid legal trouble, and apply for college and financial aid.

When combined with the Washington College Grant, this scholarship can cover full tuition at public institutions or comparable costs at private schools. Online students attending eligible programs can also benefit from this support.

Opportunity Grant Program

The Opportunity Grant Program provides need-based aid for low-income students pursuing high-demand fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Applicants must complete the FAFSA or WASFA to determine eligibility.

Funds can be applied toward tuition, books, and supplies for both in-person and online programs at community and technical colleges. This grant helps students gain workforce-ready skills in growing industries.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Washington

FAFSA helps Washington students qualify for federal and state-based financial aid to make higher education more affordable. Below are answers to common questions about funding, eligibility, and admissions.

Do Online Colleges Accept FAFSA in Washington?

Yes, most accredited online colleges in Washington accept FAFSA, allowing students to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many schools also participate in state-based aid programs like the Washington College Grant and Opportunity Grant.

Online learners should confirm that their chosen program is accredited and eligible for federal financial aid before applying. Accreditation ensures that FAFSA funds can be used toward tuition and related costs.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Online Colleges in Washington That Accept FAFSA?

Admission requirements vary by school and program, but most colleges ask for official high school or GED transcripts. Some universities, such as Washington State University Global Campus, no longer require standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT.

Prospective students should contact the admissions office of their chosen college to confirm eligibility and application requirements. Meeting these criteria ensures smooth enrollment and access to financial aid.

What Other Financial Aid Options Do Online Students Have in Washington?

Beyond FAFSA, Washington offers several state programs, including the Washington College Grant, College Bound Scholarship, and Opportunity Grant. These initiatives help students from diverse backgrounds afford higher education.

Online learners can also explore institutional scholarships, private grants, and employer tuition assistance. Multiple funding sources can make earning a degree in Washington more affordable.

Find an Affordable Online College in Washington

Washington offers a variety of financial aid options to help students fund their education. Explore accredited online programs on Learn.org to compare tuition costs, discover scholarships, and find the best fit for your academic and career goals.