Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson unveiled a proposal to require high school seniors to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)—or a state equivalent—to graduate. Students could opt out by signing a form, and the legislation is expected to move through the state’s January legislative session. The state’s FAFSA completion rate for the class of 2026 was 50.7%, below the national average, though it improved by 11.6% year over year, according to data cited from the National College Attainment Network. Ferguson has also directed the Washington Student Achievement Council to set a completion goal effective 2026–27 and report progress. The move follows evidence that some K-12 districts already use similar “complete or opt out” models and can outperform state and national rates—raising the likelihood of measurable impact on college affordability and enrollment pipelines.