Fostering Independence

The Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program allows eligible students who have been served by the foster care system to receive a university education, build a network of support, and graduate with minimal debt. In collaboration with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) and the Pennsylvania departments of Education (PDE), Human Services (DHS), and Labor & Industry (L&I), this program provides tuition waivers at postsecondary institutions, such as Drexel University, to program participants for up to five academic years or until they reach age 26.

To be eligible for the tuition waiver, students must:

• Be a Pennsylvania resident
• Be under the age of 26
• Have received a high school diploma or equivalent approved credential
• Be eligible for services under Pennsylvania's John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood
• Be identified as a youth in foster care or a youth discharged or adopted from foster care at age 16 or older
• Exited foster care on or after age 16 to adoption or permanent legal custodianship
• Be enrolled as an undergraduate, at least half time in a postsecondary institution that is approved by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV student assistance programs
• Demonstrate financial need for the PA Chafee Education and Training Grant (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
• Not be in default on a federal student loan
• File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program exists to remove any barriers to a postsecondary education for those who are or have been in foster care. If you or anyone you know could benefit from this program, contact Bernetta Millonde for more information.