WA SB5963

Adds the passport to careers program (chapter 28B.117 RCW) to the list of financial aid programs funded through the state financial aid account, alongside the Washington college grant, state work-study, and other existing programs

Beginning in the 2026-27 academic year, students eligible for the passport to careers program automatically qualify as income-eligible for the Washington college grant without separate financial need verification

The passport to careers program serves students from state, federal, and tribal foster care systems, as well as unaccompanied homeless youth

Updates terminology in the passport to careers program definitions from "family contribution" to "student aid index" to align with current federal financial aid methodology

Sponsored by Senators Nobles and Saldaña at the request of the Student Achievement Council; prefiled January 5, 2026 for the 2026 Regular Session