The CSU is committed to helping current, and former foster youth students navigate the campus. We have dedicated staff ready to help you with the campus admission process, financial aid, and campus resources.
Campus Admissions
Cal State Apply makes it easy to apply to any of the CSU's 23 campuses with a single application. Once you're admitted, you're ready to apply to your campus's foster youth program and get the support you may need to succeed.
In the Cal State Application, under the Household Income and Size Information section, two questions determine if you are considered an independent or dependent student.
- Someone other than your parent or stepparent have legal guardianship of you, as determined by a court in your state of legal residence?
- At any time since you turned 13, both your parents were deceased, you were in foster care, or you were a dependent or ward of the court?
If you answer yes, you will be considered independent, and you will be required to provide the information that applies to you in the Cal State Apply Application.
Residency for Tuition Purposes
If your residency status is undetermined or nonresident (out-of-state), you must fill out the
California Residence Questionnaire and provide supporting documents to the campus Admission Office. They will determine if you meet the residency requirements. If you meet the criteria for foster youth, you will fill out the information that applies to you. Also, you will be required to submit proof that you were a dependent or ward of the court to the campus Admissions Office.
Foster Youth Support Services
Every CSU campus has a
program to support current and former foster youth. These programs provide unconditional support and guidance. The staff understands your journey and is committed to assisting you in meeting your academic and personal development goals. Please contact the center staff for further information on campus support.
Financial Aid
The
Free Application for Federal Aid, known as the FASFA, determines a student's eligibility for need-based federal financial aid for college based on their financial situation. Federal financial aid may include Chafee, federal grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Also, the FASFA is used to award State and Institutional grants and scholarships.
Also, on the FASFA application, if you responded "yes" to the question, "At any time since you turned age 13, both your parents were deceased, you were in foster care, or you were a dependent or ward of the court? You must provide documentation to the campus Financial Aid Office to complete your FASFA application. To prevent any delay in receiving financial aid, ask your social worker to provide you with a copy of your Ward of the Court letter in advance.
It is encouraged for students to review the eligibility requirements and seek financial aid advice from the campus
Financial Aid Office to learn more about the FASFA.
FAFSA and CA Dream Act applications open on October 1 every year, and the priority deadline is March 2.