For anyone looking to get a jump on a New Year’s resolution that involves furthering their education, STCU stands ready to provide free assistance. 

STCU’s FAFSA assistance program has helped families across the region complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, since 2020. 

The credit union has partnered with local high school and college career counselors and Launch NW to provide qualified help to anyone completing the FAFSA form. 

This includes the families of high school seniors looking ahead to starting, or anyone looking to further their post-secondary education, or enter career training programs. 

The assistance is free, and anyone, regardless of STCU membership.  

Appointments at STCU branches may be made at stcu.org/fafsa. STCU has branches in each of the Tri-Cities.  

Those seeking assistance are encouraged to create a FSA ID at studentaid.gov before attending, and to review required financial records at stcu.org/fafsa. 

Though recent progress has been made, Washington and Idaho sit toward the bottom for percentage of students completing the FAFSA form. Oregon ranks 20th in completion rate. 

Nationwide, the FAFSA completion rate was 46% for 2024. That’s a drop from the previous two years, and significantly below pre-pandemic participation, according to the National College Attainment Network. Washington and Idaho have improved their numbers, but 2026 estimates have them at 23% and 21% completion, respectively. Oregon is expected to improve to 29%, still well below the national average.