OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington state leaders are looking to expand efforts that help students apply for college financial aid.

The Washington Student Achievement Council will review a proposal next week to increase support for schools and community groups that help students complete federal and state financial aid applications.

One part of the plan would expand state microgrants: small grants schools can use for financial aid events, outreach and one-on-one help for students and families.

Officials say schools receiving the grants completed financial aid applications at rates six percentage points higher than similar schools last year.

The proposal would also expand community grants for local organizations that help students and families navigate the financial aid process. The proposal supports Washington’s goal of having 70% of adults ages 25 to 44 earn a credential beyond high school.

The council is set to consider the plan at its Aug. 11 meeting.

Gov. Ferguson looks to increase FAFSA registration in high school students

The proposed change to grant support comes as Governor Bob Ferguson makes a push to change how Washington high schoolers make decisions on Federal Student Aid.

Ferguson held a press conference at Highline College in Des Moines last month explaining the importance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The governor said his proposal requiring graduating seniors to either opt-out or complete FAFSA registration will be requested in the upcoming legislative session.

FAFSA funds are allotted through applications to students of families with qualifying financial situations.

The funds can be used for university tuition or job training, and operate like grants, meaning students do not have to pay them back.

Despite being one of the most generous states for FAFSA money distribution, Washington consistently ranks near the bottom in applicants.