Scholarships – Frequently Asked Questions
Application
| How much does it cost to apply for the scholarship, and do I have to apply each quarter? | There is no cost to apply for this scholarship and you do not have to re-apply each quarter, however Scholars are required to contact the Scholarships Team each quarter. |
| What is the deadline to apply? | To view application deadline dates, please view Application Information |
| How will I know if I have been awarded this scholarship? | You will receive a “Scholar Award” email that will include your next steps to complete before any funding is issued. Please make sure to check your email often for updates and important information as failure to do so may hinder your award status. |
Eligibility
| Is it required to be employed at a child care facility in order to apply for this scholarship? | Yes, you have to be employed at an Early Achievers facility/family care for at least 3 months at time of application submission. For all eligibility requirements, please view Montessori Credential Requirements |
| Can I attend any Montessori program in the state of WA? | You can attend any Montessori Credential academic program accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE). Click here to find an MACTE approved program. |
Benefits
| Can I use this scholarship in conjunction with other scholarship funding? | Yes, you can use this scholarship with other funding sources and this scholarship pays after all other gift aid (funding that you do not need to pay back). |
| Can I still be awarded a scholarship if I am behind in payments to FAFSA or to a college? | Yes, you can still be awarded (provided that you meet the eligibility requirements and provide the required documentation). |
| If I am awarded, how do I receive the scholarship funds to pay for my tuition? | Our Scholarships Team will be communicating with the staff at your academy to set up payments that will be sent directly to your tuition. |
| How will my books be paid for? | CA of WA will reimburse you for the approved books, materials, and equipment that you purchase (up to $500 per scholarship contract). You will need to submit a Reimbursement Form (Form B) along with your receipts to Scholarships@childcareawarewa.org. **TIP: We strongly encourage you to fill out an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) /Direct Deposit Form. All non-tuition benefits are sent via check, directly to you or your employer (depending on the benefit type), unless you complete an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) Form. An EFT allows for faster payment. You can find the EFT Form here. |
| What exactly is “Paid Release Time”, and how do I know if I qualify for it? | This is an optional benefit that should first be discussed with your employer to ensure they are willing to participate. The benefit allows you to still be paid full wages from your employer for up to 3 hours per week to complete school related activities during your normal work hours. At the end of the term the benefit is utilized, CCCA of WA will reimburse your employer (or you, if you are self-employed) $15 for every hour you missed work. Accepted school related activities include attending class, exams, studying, or meeting with an academic advisor. For more information or to access the Release Time Claim Form, please view our Forms page. |
I want to express my deepest gratitude to CCA of WA for providing me with the scholarship that made my educational journey a possibility. Because of your support, I was able to earn my bachelor’s degree completely free of financial burden, something that truly would not have been possible without you. Because of you, I am a first-generation student.
Your generosity didn’t just fund my education, but it also helped me achieve a lifelong dream. You have opened doors for me, have empowered me to grow, and have allowed me to pursue a career I’m passionate about. Knowledge is power and I’m thankful for an organization like yours that shows people that you are never too old to go back to school. I am forever grateful for the opportunities you’ve given me and for the belief you place in students like me. Thank you for changing my life!
— Shadia Hardy
