Skagit Valley College

Fire Science Scholarship

The Fire Science Scholarship Program is designed to develop the next generation of highly trained, professional firefighters by removing financial barriers for motivated individuals committed to a career in the fire service.

When can I apply?

The scholarship application opens up April 1st. Students can apply through the SVC Fire Science web page.

Selected candidates will be invited for an interview in June, 2026.

Scholarship application can be found here.

Apply here

Who can apply?

Anyone who has applied for to SVC for the Fire Science Program.

Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Still need to apply for SVC admission? Follow the link below.

Apply to SVC

Scholarship details

Our Fire Science Scholarship Program is designed to remove financial barriers and support the next generation of firefighters from start to finish. The scholarship fully covers all required expenses, including tuition, lab fees, textbooks, background checks, medical evaluations, EMT-B certification, live fire operations training, IFSAC testing, and Class B uniforms.

In addition to comprehensive training, students have the opportunity to test for Washington State IFSAC and Pro Board certifications, including Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations, Firefighter I & II, NWCG Wildland Firefighter Type 2, and National Registry EMT-B. This program provides the education, hands-on experience, and nationally recognized certifications needed to begin a successful career in the fire service.

Students who successfully complete the program graduate with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Fire Protection Technology, providing a strong academic foundation in fire behavior, prevention, and emergency response.

In addition to their degree, students gain two years of hands-on fire service experience while training alongside active department members. This real-world experience builds confidence, sharpens critical skills, and prepares graduates to transition directly into careers in the fire service with both education and practical experience already in place.

FAQs -

- How competitive is the selection process?
The program is competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on attitude, reliability, work ethic, and their commitment to a career in the fire service—not just academics.

-Do I need prior fire experience to apply?
No prior experience is required, but any background in emergency services, volunteering, or physical training is beneficial. You do not need to be affiliated with a fire department in order to be eligible for the scholarship.

- Can I work another job while in the program?

It may be possible, but the time commitment is significant. Between school, station hours, and required trainings, outside employment can be challenging.

- How do I get hands-on experience?
Students must complete a minimum of 96 hours per month at their assigned fire station, contributing to daily operations, training, and overall station readiness.

- Is this a paid position?
No. This is a scholarship-based program. While educational expenses are covered, students are not paid wages.

- Can I be a resident firefighter if I'm a scholarship student?
Yes, but you will need to go through a resident interview process.

- Will I respond to real emergency calls?
Yes. Students are expected to participate in emergency response as part of their training, under supervision.

The fire program and scholarship helped me get successfully hired at another fire department. I also gained fire service connections that have helped with networking.

I wouldn't have been able to attend SVC's fire program if it wasn't for the scholarship!

- Taylor C.