As summer nears, junior year is almost over. Take a few simple steps now to prepare yourself for bigger steps during senior year.

Get ready to apply for financial aid

Set up your FSA ID: Create an account on studentaid.gov to receive your Federal Student Aid identification number (FSA ID). Parents should create their own account, too. Your FSA ID will help prepare you to apply for state and federal financial aid with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Look into WASFA: The Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is for people who are undocumented or who do not qualify for federal financial aid because of their immigration status, and can be used in limited circumstances by others who cannot or choose not to file a FAFSA. The WASFA is an application for state and institutional financial aid only. Not sure whether you should use the FAFSA or the WASFA? Complete the WASFA questionnaire.

Learn about WA Grant: The generous Washington College Grant (WA Grant) can help pay for many types of education beyond high school, like certificate programs, job training, apprenticeships, or college. There’s no separate application for WA Grant—just complete a FAFSA or WASFA to find out how much money you can get for college or career training.

Keep up with graduation requirements

Make sure you are keeping up with your class's graduation requirements. Talk to your counselor about potential additional requirements.

Look into dual credit opportunities

Dual credit programs allow students to earn high school and college credit simultaneously. Students who earn college credit are more likely to graduate high school, enroll in college, and complete college degrees. Although multiple dual credit programs are offered in Washington, not all programs are available at all high schools. Learn more about specific dual credit programs.

Consider your college or career training path

Now is the time to think about whether you want to pursue further education or training (such as an apprenticeship, a technical school, a two-year or four-year college), full-time employment, or begin a military career after high school.

Don't stress! You still have time to make this decision. Now is a good time to start weighing options so you can narrow down your choices in the coming months. Learn more and plan your future on the WSAC website.