What is the tuition at Washington State?

Washington State charges tuition based on the total number of credit hours you take. View our current tuition rates, fees and access our net price calculator.

What is "verification" and why do I have to complete more paperwork?

Any student who applies for federal student aid (FAFSA) can be randomly selected for verification. Once you’re selected, you must submit certain documents to confirm information on the FAFSA. These documents may include, but are not limited to: signed copies of IRS Federal Tax return transcripts for student, spouse and/or parent; verification worksheets; W2 forms; proof of child support paid or received, etc. Financial aid cannot be finalized until all forms are completed.

Why do I have to use prior years' tax information - that information isn't accurate anymore?

Even if you feel the FAFSA will not reflect changed financial circumstances in the current year, complete the FAFSA as best you can, supplying the information requested. Washington State College of Ohio has a formal institutional appeal process to handle unusual circumstances. Students may submit a special circumstances appeal form to help determine if your circumstances bear consideration in reevaluating your financial aid eligibility. To see if you are eligible for an appeal, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Can I use all of my financial aid for the year in one semester?

No. Federal regulations require us to disburse aid equally across terms of enrollments.

Why do I have to use my parent's tax information if I don't live with them and they don't support me?

The instructions on the FAFSA reflect rules set by Congress. If you have extenuating circumstances, such as parental abuse or if both parents are deceased, please contact the Office of Financial Aid. We are NOT able to consider appeals to become independent just because you live on your own and are self-sufficient, you are not claimed by your parents as a tax exemption, your parents refuse to provide information on the FAFSA or your parents do not support you.

What if I need a copy of my IRS Federal Tax Return Transcript and I don't have one?

You may obtain copies of federal tax return transcripts and past W-2's at www.irs.gov or by calling 1.800.829.1040.You may also obtain copies of W-2's from your previous employer(s).

Do I need to file a tax return?

For more information, contact an accountant to determine your filing status, or you may visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov and follow the directions there.

How will I know how much financial aid I'm getting?

If a student is eligible for financial aid, he/she will receive a Financial Aid package. This letter tells: type(s) of award(s) student will receive; amount(s) per semester; terms and conditions to meet while receiving aid. Students may also check their Student Planning account to view their aid.

How long before I know about my financial aid status?

It will take 7-14 business days for the Office of Financial Aid to receive information from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You will be notified by mail of the next step to take in order to process your financial aid. It can take 6-8 weeks to complete the entire process.

I don't think I will qualify for aid. Should I apply anyway?

Absolutely! Many families mistakenly think they don't qualify for aid and prevent themselves from receiving financial aid by failing to apply for it. In addition, there are a few sources of aid such as unsubsidized Stafford and PLUS loans that are available regardless of need. The FAFSA form is free. The Financial Aid Office cannot process any aid for a student without the FAFSA on file.

Is there a deadline to apply for FAFSA?

WSCO sets FAFSA priority deadlines as a guideline to help students plan and allow ample time for their aid to be processed. Please pay attention to other important deadlines, including scholarship and loan deadlines, so you don’t miss out on financial aid. The new FAFSA becomes available October 1st of each year.

Learn more about the financial aid process and how to apply by clicking here.