- For questions contact: youth.support@mass.gov
Each year youth must complete the FAFSA (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid) in order to be eligible for the following programs.
State College Tuition and Fee Waiver Program
The Waiver waives the cost of tuition of state-supported classes only at Massachusetts public universities and community colleges. The waiver does not cover books or room and board.
Eligibility
- Students that were in DCF custody until age 18
- Youth who were adopted through DCF
- Youth who were placed in a DCF-sponsored guardianship through age 18
Additional Resources
Foster Child Grant Program
Eligibility
A young adult who has not earned a baccalaureate degree and meets the following conditions:
- Is a permanent legal resident of MA
- Is a US citizen or non-citizen eligible under Title IV regulations
- Was placed in the custody of the Department of Children and Families through a Care and Protection Petition
- Remained in the care and custody of the Department of Children and Families until the age of 18 and has been unable to return home
- Is not over the age of 24
- Voluntarily agrees to participate in educational support services offered by the Department of Social Services
- Is enrolled full time (12 credits or its equivalent)
- Has applied for financial aid, using the standard Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Is in compliance with applicable law regarding Selective Service
- Is not in default of any federal or state student loans for attendance at any institution or owed a refund for any previous financial aid received and
- Is in good standing and meets the institution’s requirements for satisfactory academic progress
Additional Resources
Educational and Training Voucher Program
Youth must have achieved a high school diploma or GED certificate to be eligible for ETV funds. The ETV Grant provides support for post secondary educational or vocational training programs, including colleges and trade schools and related costs of attendance (tuition, fees, room and board, books, transportation, and daycare) as defined in the Higher Education Act of 1965.
Eligibility
- Youth who were adopted through DCF after attaining age 16; or
- Youth who were placed in a DCF sponsored Guardianship w/ kin after the age of 16 through age 18
- Students that were in DCF custody until age 18
- Under the age of 26
Additional Resources
William Warren Scholarship
This Scholarship provides financial assistance for any post secondary certificate or degree-granting program. The Scholarship is competitive and students are evaluated on academic merit and financial need. Scholarships are granted once a year, applications are submitted in the summer and awarded in the fall. All youth who were in DCF placement for a minimum of one year and have not reached the age of 25 are eligible to apply.