This section contains information on college scholarships, vocational education, and tuition waivers. Some States and private organizations offer scholarships and tuition waiver programs to youth who have been involved in or were adopted from the child welfare system. Find resources for the available programs in this section.
College Financial Aid Resources for Former Foster Youth (PDF - 338 KB)
Voice for Adoption (2013)
Provides a snapshot of potential financial aid opportunities for youth formerly in foster care. The resource sheet includes information about college scholarships, tuition waivers, and other programs.
College Tuition Waiver and Scholarship Programs
North American Council on Adoptable Children (2004)
Summarizes State laws that offer assistance to youth formerly in foster care to continue their education at a university or technical school.
Darko Rapotez Memorial College Scholarship Fund for Aged Out Foster Youth
Love Our Children USA
Awards scholarships for youth who have aged out of the foster care system.
ETVProgram
Foster Care to Success Foundation/Orphan Foundation of America
Describes each State's education and training voucher program, including information on eligibility, funding levels, and State contacts.
Expanded Access to College Financial Aid for Former Foster Youth (PDF - 80 KB)
Voice for Adoption (2010)
Provides information on a Federal law (P.L. 110-84) that makes it possible for teens in foster care to be adopted without losing eligibility for college financial aid.
FAFSA Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid (PDF - 111 KB)
National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (2014)
Provides recommendations for how best to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) efficiently and without errors.
Our Voice, Their Future: Fostering Hope Through Child Welfare Reform (PDF - 2,759 KB)
Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (2013)
Provides research, personal insight and policy recommendations from youth who spent time in the U.S. foster care system.
Providing Effective Financial Aid Assistance to Students From Foster Care and Unaccompanied Homeless Youth (PDF - 2417 KB)
Provides information to professionals working with transitioning or homeless youth to secure financial aid for post-secondary education. Answers regarding how to respond to FASFA questions are also included.
Scholarships and Grants
Foster Care to Success
Provides information about scholarships available for youth who have spent time in the foster care system and how to apply.
Tuition Waivers by State: Transition to Independence (TIP)
Wayne State University
Increases college access and seeks to improve the graduation rates of youth in foster care in Southeast Michigan. Features maps that provide information on state tuition waiver programs for youth in foster care and extending foster care past the age of eighteen.
Youth Scholarship Information
National Foster Parent Association
Offers details on scholarships for youth in foster care, adopted youth, or biological youth of currently licensed foster parents, who wish to further their education beyond high school, including college or university studies, vocational/technical school or junior college.