You can expect welding school in Washington to cost about $3,000 per quarter for full-time study (roughly $18,000 for six quarters), with total realistic budgets — including housing, tools, materials, fees, and living expenses — running between $35,800 and $43,200. Plan $60–$275 for tools, $110–$300 for materials, and extra fees plus certification costs. Accredited programs, scholarships, and military discounts can cut your net cost, and the next section breaks down those specifics.
Tuition and Program Price Ranges in Washington
In Washington, welding programs typically cost between $35,800 and $43,200 when you include housing; if you’re a full-time student expect about $3,000 per quarter and roughly $18,000 for six quarters of tuition and fees.
You’ll compare programs by evaluating tuition comparisons side-by-side, noting that tool costs ($60–$275) and materials ($110–$300) add modestly to outlays.
Check program accreditation first: accredited programs often qualify for more financial aid and military discounts, lowering your net tuition.
Check accreditation first—accredited welding programs usually unlock more financial aid and military discounts, reducing your net tuition.
Calculate net cost by subtracting scholarships and discounts from advertised tuition, then factor average payback time—typically 7–17 months after graduation—into your decision.
Pick the accredited program that balances lower net tuition with proven job placement.
Housing and Living Costs to Budget For
Although tuition often lists housing, you should budget separately for living costs since attending a school without on-campus housing can add about $12,000 in rent, and the average annual cost of living in Bellingham is roughly $20,247.
You’ll want a clear cost breakdown: program totals range $35,800–$43,200 (including housing), so verify whether student housing is included.
On-campus housing is fully furnished, includes utilities and WiFi, and provides one parking spot per student, but you must bring linens, toiletries, food, and dishes; pets aren’t allowed.
If you live off campus, add rent, utilities, groceries, and transport to your budget. Plan for upfront move-in costs and a modest emergency fund.
- Small furnished room, WiFi, one parking space
- Weekly groceries, toiletries, dishes to buy
- Off-campus apartment rent and utilities
Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Military Discounts
When you budget for welding school, factor in every payment option and aid source so you’re not surprised by the final bill.
Use financial planning to compare cash, 529 accounts, and education savings plans; each lowers immediate strain and affects tax or withdrawal rules.
Apply broadly: hundreds of thousands in scholarship opportunities are awarded annually, and participating in yearly events raises your odds.
Watch for occasional scholarship giveaways and deadlines to capture extra aid.
If you’re active or a veteran, present your DD‑214 to claim a typical 10% tuition discount—confirm eligibility with admissions.
Tally expected aid against the program’s $35.8K–$43.2K total (including housing) to determine remaining balance and payment timing.
Tools, Materials, and Additional Student Fees
You’ve estimated tuition and aid; now budget for tools, materials, and extra student fees that add to your out‑of‑pocket costs.
Expect tool expenses of about $60–$275 depending on required wrenches, helmets, and hand tools. Material costs run roughly $110–$300 for consumables plus an $18-per-credit materials surcharge that accumulates over the program.
Add certification fees near $90 and budget for books and supplies totaling about $2,119.
- A heavy welding helmet, gloves, and chipping hammer on a bench.
- Spools of wire, rods, and scrap metal stacked for practice.
- Textbooks, workbooks, and safety gear boxed beside tuition statements.
Track each line item, build a simple spreadsheet, and update estimates as course requirements and credits change.
Employment Outcomes and Time to Payback
Because welding graduates usually find work quickly, you can estimate payback on tuition in months rather than years: with an 81% job placement rate and typical starting wages near $60,300, most students recoup the average tuition and fees (about $18,000 for six quarters, plus $60–$300 in tools/materials) within roughly 7–17 months after starting full-time employment. You should track job placement and salary potential when evaluating programs. Higher placement shortens payback; higher wages accelerate it. Consider total training cost (up to $43.2K with housing) for realistic budgeting.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Job placement | 81% |
| Typical starting wage | $60,324 |
| Potential wage | $96,763 |
| Payback window | 7–17 months |
Use these figures to plan repayment and compare programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Welding Programs Require a High School Diploma or GED?
You usually don’t need a diploma, but some programs list high school requirements; you can use a GED or education alternatives like pre-apprenticeship courses, bridge programs, or basic skills training to meet entry prerequisites and succeed.
Are Night or Weekend Welding Classes Available?
Like a torch igniting opportunity, you can find evening classes and flexible schedules for welding; lots of schools offer night or weekend sessions, so check program listings, contact admissions, and confirm hands-on lab availability and costs.
Can I Transfer Prior Welding Credits Between Schools?
Yes — you can often transfer prior welding credits, but it depends on each school’s transfer policies. Submit transcripts for a credit evaluation, meet course equivalency and grade requirements, and confirm approval with admissions before enrolling.
Do Programs Include Certification Exam Fees (E.G., AWS)?
Like a friend buying a toolbox, you’ll usually pay separate certification costs; some programs cover exam preparation or include AWS test fees, while others don’t — always ask admissions for exact coverage and any added testing charges.
Are Internships or Apprenticeship Placements Arranged by the School?
Yes — many schools arrange internship opportunities and have apprenticeship partnerships with local shops and unions; you’ll get placement support, application coaching, and coordination, though availability and guarantees vary by program and employer relationships.
Conclusion
You’ll find welding school costs in Washington range from modest community-college tuition to pricier private programs, and coincidentally the money you spend, the time you train, and the tools you buy line up like stacked metal plates: tuition forms the base, housing and fees weld the middle, and tools finish the seam. Budget each layer, use scholarships or VA benefits to bridge gaps, and you’ll see how quickly employment earnings can grind costs down to a clean, profitable joint.
