Access to higher education has become increasingly essential to obtain economic independence and success in today’s world. The following resources provide information about accessing higher-education opportunities and financial scholarships for youth in or aging out of the foster care system.
College Scholarships and Grants for Current and Former Foster Youth
Foster Coalition
Presents a listing of college scholarship programs and grants offered to youth currently and formerly in foster care.
Educational and Training Vouchers for Current and Former Foster Care Youth (PDF - 66 KB)
U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid (2015)
Provides information about Educational and Training Vouchers (ETVs) that can help youth currently or formerly in foster care pay for college or vocational training.
FAFSA For Foster Youth: Everything You Need to Know
iFoster (2020)
Outlines how youth in foster care can apply for State and Federal education grants through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Foster Care to Success
Connects youth transitioning from foster care to college with financial and academic resources, including tuition grants, living stipends, academic coaching, care packages, and internship opportunities. This organization also coordinates the Educational Training Voucher programs for several State child welfare agencies.
Foster Care Transition Toolkit (PDF - 1,106 KB)
U.S. Department of Education (2016)
Provides information and resources for youth in foster care as they transition out of care and into postsecondary education. The toolkit discusses transition planning, educational opportunities, finding a career, and more.
From Foster Care to College: Scholarships and Support That Can Help
Affordable Colleges Online (2020)
Describes why youth in foster care may need assistance when it comes to college and provides information on scholarships and financial aid, programs for applying to college, programs for youth in college, and advice relating to postsecondary education.
How Attorneys Can Support Postsecondary Success
Kelly (2017)
American Bar Association
Provides an overview on Federal laws related to youth engagement and planning for postsecondary education.
John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (PDF - 349 KB)
Congressional Research Service (2019)
Outlines the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program, which provides funding for supports to youth currently and formerly in foster care for education assistance, career exploration, mentoring, and more. The resource explains eligibility for the funds, describes the supports, explains funding streams, and discusses related programs.
NC Reach: Education Assistance for Adoptees and Foster Youth
Offers State-funded scholarships for students adopted from North Carolina Department of Social Services foster care after age 12, or who aged out of North Carolina foster care at age 18. The program provides comprehensive student support, including Virtual Mentors, Care Packages, and internships.
Scholarships
Provides scholarships for youth in foster care who wish to further their education through college or university studies, vocational and job training, or correspondence courses, including the GED. The website also includes tips for scholarship applications and links to other scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
Students in Foster Care
U.S. Department of Education (2016)
Provides information on relevant laws, guidance, and technical assistance materials related to educational support for students in foster care.