Foster Youth
FAFSA/CADAA Priority Deadline:
Even though the 4/2/25 California priority deadline has passed for 2025-26, you can still apply for financial aid. Funding may be more limited, however we still strongly encourage you to apply!
Despite the additional financial challenges that foster youth face, there are resources for financial aid. This page provides assistance to foster youth in answering the FAFSA appropriately to their situation, as well as highlights federal, state, university, and private resources that may make college accessible.
Independent Living Program
Are you a foster youth? The California Department of Social Services, Independent Living Program (ILP) assists foster care youths in developing the skills necessary to make the transition from foster care to independent living. Contact your ILP county coordinator, first, about resources for which you may be eligible.
How to Apply for Financial Aid if You Are a Foster Youth
Applying for financial aid is free. Apply by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). You must complete a new or renewal FAFSA or CADAA for each academic year that you will be enrolled. Don’t forget to add Chico State to your list of schools when you’re filling out the FAFSA or CADAA, so we get your financial aid info. Chico State’s School Code is 001146.
Foster Youth and Types of Aid
Your eligibility for aid depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), your year in school, your enrollment status, and the cost of attendance.
Once you’ve completed the FAFSA or CADAA, we’ll use your SAI and other information to figure out how much financial aid you qualify for. Your financial aid package will be comprised of various types of aid. The initial award offer is based on full-time enrollment, which is 12 units per semester for undergraduates. Awards may be adjusted for changes in enrollment, residency status, or overawards due to receipt of aid from other sources.
Grants:
Grants are based on need and do not have to be repaid. For more information on grants please visit our Grants page.
Federal Grants
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
State Grants
- Cal Grants
- Chafee Grant – state grant specifically for foster youth
Program-Specific Grants
Scholarships:
Scholarships are based on special considerations or qualifications. Scholarships do not have to be repaid. For more information on scholarships, please visit our scholarships page.
Wildcat Scholarships
California State University, Chico provides scholarship awards to eligible students, and students are encouraged to apply. See Wildcat Scholarships for more information.
Non-University Scholarships
There are organizations dedicated to providing opportunities and resources for foster youth to pursue a college education. Students also may research private and community scholarships. See External Scholarships for additional information.
Other Types of Financial Aid
See federal Work-Study and Loans.
Resources and Support Links
The State of California has a Foster Youth Ombudsman Program to assist foster youth and former foster youth and to advocate for their rights. Consult Foster Youth Help for what you are entitled to receive and how to get help accessing it.