Community Foundation Southwest Washington Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Community Foundation Southwest Washington
Opening doors to opportunity
We provide both need-based and merit-based scholarships designed to expand access to postsecondary education and help students achieve greater economic mobility.
Eligibility overview
Our awards are aimed at local applicants pursuing a range of educational routes. Many scholarships target graduating high school seniors, while others support current college students, trade and technical students, and adults returning to school. Some awards are renewable; each listing specifies eligibility, term length, and any renewal requirements.
Need- and merit-based aid — get started
To be considered for financial awards it’s important to complete federal and state aid forms. File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Washington Application for State Financial Aid so our committees can accurately assess financial need. If filling out these forms or navigating the scholarship process feels daunting, contact our Scholarship Manager, Deanna Green, for guidance.
How to apply — simplified
We aim to keep the application process straightforward. Follow these steps:
1. Review available scholarships
- Browse the dozens of scholarships intended for local students. Each award has its own eligibility rules and required materials. Use our eligibility quiz to quickly identify scholarships that match your background and goals.
2. Gather required documents
- Assemble transcripts, recommendation letters, school verifications, and any other documents listed in each application. Reach out to school offices and references early so you have everything on time.
3. Prepare your responses
- Review common application questions and draft your answers in advance. Save copies of your essays and materials so you can edit before submitting.
4. Complete federal and state aid forms
- Submit the FAFSA and the Washington Application for State Financial Aid to maximize your financial aid opportunities and ensure the selection committees have the information they need.
5. Submit applications through SmarterSelect
- Log in to your SmarterSelect account and fill out the applications for the scholarships you qualify for. You can save drafts, return to edit, and submit when ready. After submission, our scholarship team will review your materials and notify you of decisions.
Need help?
If you have questions about eligibility, required paperwork, or the SmarterSelect platform, reach out to Deanna Green, Scholarship Manager — our in-house expert on applications and financial aid.
Who we serve
- High school seniors: The majority of our scholarships support seniors graduating high school who plan to attend a college, technical, or trade program. Several of these awards are renewable.
- Current college students: We offer awards for undergraduate and graduate-level students, including specific scholarships for vocational and trade studies. Many of these can be renewed.
- Returning/adult learners: A number of scholarships are reserved for adults or students returning to complete a certificate or degree after a break from their studies.
Start with the eligibility quiz to find the scholarships that fit you, complete the FAFSA and state aid application, then follow the steps above to submit through SmarterSelect. If you need assistance at any point, Deanna Green is available to help.