WAVE (Washington Award for Vocational Excellence)

The WAVE program honors three vocational students from each of the 49 state legislative districts, for outstanding achievement in vocational/technical education.

High schools, skills centers, and community and technical colleges nominate students based on occupational proficiency, leadership, community activities, work experience, and other qualities. A committee, representing business, labor, education, the Legislature and citizens, makes the final selection. Students can use the grants at public two-year and four-year colleges and universities and accredited private colleges, universities and vocational schools in Washington.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in a Washington state high school, skills center, or public community or technical college at the time of application.
• Graduate from high school with a minimum of 360 hours in a single, approved vocational program or be enrolled in a public community or technical college and have completed at least one year in an approved vocational program by June 30 of the award year.
• Not have received a previous WAVE scholarship.
• Not be pursuing a degree in theology.

Award

Students receive grants equal to up to two years of undergraduate resident tuition and fees.

How to Apply

Contact your school vocational administrator, WAVE coordinator or counselor for a nomination form.

For more information, contact:
Washington Award for Vocational Excellence Program
Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board
Phone: 360-753-5670
Email: janderson@wtb.wa.gov or tcolbert@wtb.wa.gov

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