State of IL Department of Children and Family Services

The state of IL and federal government have programs and funding available to youth who have been in foster care which are administered by DCFS, separate from the FAFSA application. Programs include the Scholarship Program (competitive and includes monthly stipend for IL Community Colleges or State Public Universities), the Tuition and Fee Waiver Program (covers tuition and mandatory fees), The Education and Training Program, and the Youth in College program (a placement program). Each program has different eligibility requirements. For more information on how to apply and check eligibility contact the DCFS Office of Education and Transition Services at 217-557-2689 or email
DCFS.OfficeofEducationandTransitionServices@illinois.gov