PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program

(FosterEd) Program

On June 28th, 2019 Pennsylvania passed a law - Fostering Tuition through Education Act, which created the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver (FosterEd) Program. This program seeks to remove barriers to accessing a postsecondary education for youth who are or have been in foster care.

  • This helps eligible foster youth to complete their studies, graduate with less debt, and have the opportunity to build a network of support.
  • The program is being administered collaboratively by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) in conjunction with the PA Departments of Education, Human Services, and Labor & Industry.

Click here for more information from PHEAA about the program and how to apply and/or read the information below.

Key Benefits & Facts:

  • Creates a tuition and fee waiver for youth in foster care who are seeking an undergraduate degree at colleges and universities in Pennsylvania to reduce financial barriers.
  • Creates points-of-contact at institutions to help eligible students identify and apply for
    financial aid, scholarships, gather verification documents and access campus and community
    resources and support services.
  • The waiver cannot be used for housing (residence hall) or meal plan charges at Millersville University.
  • The waiver can be used for up to five years or until the age of 26.

Eligibility & Criteria: 

  • Be a Pennsylvania resident Be under the age of 26
  • 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 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 (Chafee ETG), as determined by the postsecondary institution
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP), as determined by the postsecondary institution
  • Not be in default on a federal student loan

How to Apply:

POINT OF CONTACT:

  • Emi Alvarez
  • Director of Financial Aid
  • Office of Financial Aid
  • (717) 871-5100

additional info: