employment readiness opportunities

Support for students receiving federal food benefits from DSHS.

Eligibility

1. Currently receiving federally issued Basic Food benefits.  Eligibility for DSHS Basic Food      Assistance generally follows the 2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines   for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia. 
   
   You can apply for Basic Food Assistance  by calling 877-501-2233, online or  at your local DSHS Office. Visit Washington Connection for more information.
   
   
2. Not receiving a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) grant.
3. A  Washington State resident.
4. Enrolled in a Professional/Technical program, Transfer degree program (AAS-T), or in ELA,            HS+,  GED or Running Start at Edmonds College.
   
   *Non covered programs: 4 year College Degree, Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees,  Associate in Arts Direct Transfer Agreement (AA-DTA).
   
   
5. Completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or  WASFA. BFET requires all                 students except GED®, High School+, and ELA students — to complete the FAFSA or WASFA.
   If  you  have questions about the application, contact Financial Aid. BFET provides students with tuition and book support as they complete the financial aid process. 

To apply for BFET, go to our How To Apply page.

Questions?

Read our Frequently Asked Questions or contact us.

Financial Aid

Grants: Federal Pell Grant and State Need Grant

Most students will qualify for two types of grants (which do not have to be paid back): the Federal Pell Grant and the State Needs Grant. Students who receive food benefits typically qualify for both grants. Low-interest subsidized student loans are also offered to offset a student’s basic needs, such as rent. Loans are part of the federal financial aid package, but they have to be paid back.

Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

• This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
• Funding provided by United States Department of Agriculture.
• USDA is an equal opportunity employer provider and lender.