Higher education is increasingly important for individual wellbeing, the economic competitiveness of Washington state, and the state's recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. However, postsecondary enrollment trends have not kept pace with the state's changing economic needs and expanded financial aid programs. Issues with stagnant direct enrollment rates in Washington are being further compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence suggests that the pandemic has affected postsecondary enrollment and may continue to impact the college-going culture in the state. This research brief presents evidence around postsecondary enrollment trends, including enrollment data leading up to and during the pandemic, as well as trends in financial aid applications that are associated with postsecondary enrollment. The aim of this brief is to help institutional leaders and higher education stakeholders in Washington understand current trends and address challenges in postsecondary enrollment to help more students complete postsecondary programs and gain a meaningful credential.