College and Career Success

Includes information and resources to support educational outcomes beyond high school (i.e. college, University, etc.).

College Support Programs


  • Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) The EOP provides assistance through mentorship, academic programs, financial assistance, counseling/advising, and other campus support services to those who are first-generation college students, and/or from low-income and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. The EOP program is available at CSU and UC campuses only. 
  • Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) The EOPS program encourages the enrollment, retention, and transfer of students disadvantaged by language, social, economic, and educational circumstances, and helps to facilitate the successful completion of their goals and objectives in college. EOPS offers academic and support counseling, financial aid, and other support services. The EOPS program is available at California Community Colleges.
  • Guardian Scholar - Post Education
    The Guardian Scholar program is available at most of the community colleges, state universities, and University of California campuses. Follow this link for a searchable database of all foster youth campus support programs. 

  • NextUp
    The NextUp program, also known as CAFYES (Cooperating Agencies Foster Youth Educational Support), provides community college students like you with resources that make a difference. The program offers eligible current and former foster youth support and services that could include help with books and supplies, transportation, tutoring, food and emergency housing.

Online Financial Aid Resources for Foster Youth

  • CalGrant/CA Dream Act
    The CalGrant is available to students attending college in California and can cover
    tuition costs as well as other costs such as housing and books. Foster youth
    are given special consideration when applying for a CalGrant. Foster youth can
    qualify any time up to age 26 (other students must apply within one year of
    high school graduation), may have an extended deadline to apply, and can
    receive the grant for 8 years rather than the usual 4 years. Students who are
    undocumented can submit a California Dream Act Application.
  • Chafee Education Training Voucher (ETV)
    The William Chafee ETV is managed through an interagency agreement between the California Department of Social Services and the California Student Aid Commission. Current and former foster youth who were in out of home placement between the ages of 16-18 may be eligible to receive up to $5000 for college.
  • California College Promise Grant
    Formerly known as the BOG Fee Waiver, the California College Promise Grant permits enrollment fees to be waived for eligible California residents.
  • Pell Grant
    In order to apply for and receive the Pell Grant, you should start by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. You will have to fill out the FAFSA form every year you’re in school, in order to stay eligible for federal student aid. 

CDSS Letters and Information Notices