Washington College Grant Updates

Updates and Gonzaga's Response

Updated: 11/20/2025

Washington lawmakers have reduced funding for the Washington College Grant at private, not-for-profit universities, with changes taking effect in fall 2026.  Because many Gonzaga students rely on this Grant to make their education possible, we want to be clear: Gonzaga is committed to covering the difference so that your financial aid remains whole.  This question and answer page explains what the changes mean, how Gonzaga will support continuing students, and how you can join in advocating for future Zags.

Washington College Grant Cuts Q&A

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

  • To ensure timely delivery of your financial aid offer, students should complete their financial aid application as early as possible - FAFSA for most students, or WASFA for those not eligible to complete the FAFSA.
  • Financial aid offers for 2026-27 will be released as soon as possible, likely by January.  You'll be notified via email when your package is ready to view in Zagweb.
  • Gonzaga's reassurance that a student's aid will remain whole is based on the following assumptions:
    • The student is a Gonzaga undergraduate student in 2026-27.
    • The student will complete the FAFSA or WASFA as required to determine their eligibility.
    • The student's family's financial situation remains reasonably consistent with their current eligibility for the Washington College Grant.

2.  Will my financial aid be reduced because of the Washington College Grant cuts?

  • No.  Gonzaga has committed to covering the difference for students who are affected by these changes. If you're a Washington College Grant recipient and still qualify based on your family's financial situation, your 2026-27 financial aid will not be reduced.

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

  • Check your current 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. 

4.  What if I'm not a Washington College Grant recipient - does this impact me?

  • Not directly.  But we could use your help ensuring Gonzaga remains affordable and accessible.  While you may not be directly impacted, many of your classmates likely are.  Adding your voice strengthens our advocacy for current and future Zags. Visit SaveStudentAid.org to learn more and take action.

5.  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.

6.  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.

7.  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 effect your aid.
  • Financial Aid Office Contact Information:

8.  Why is the Washington College Grant being cut?

  • Washington lawmakers reduced funding for students attending private, not-for-profit colleges like Gonzaga.  These changes affect students from low-income families who rely on the Grant to afford college.

9.  How can I get involved?

  • SaveStudentAid.org is a statewide advocacy campaign powered by the Independent Colleges of Washington (ICW).  It is intended to mobilize students, 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 student aid matters, send a message to Governor Ferguson and legislators, and share your story to help protect student aid for current and future Zags.

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

  • Share Your Financial Aid Experience 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.