Our Work - EDUCATION
FAFSA/CADAA Completion
Receiving all available financial aid is a deciding factor in the success of foster and homeless youth in college.
Given its importance, JBAY works to ensure all foster youth have access to the financial aid to which they are entitled. To access college financial aid, students typically must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Data show that 90% of high school seniors who complete the FAFSA go on to enroll in college within 12 months as compared to just 45% of high school seniors who do not complete the FAFSA. Foster youth and students experiencing homelessness, however, often do not complete this crucial step, which contributes to low rates of college completion.
“Discovering all the resources available to foster youth through the FAFSA has brought my dream closer to reality for me.”
- Toby, a graduating senior at Palmdale High School in LA County
Financial Aid Resources for California Foster and Unaccompanied Homeless Youth
For students who have experienced foster care or homelessness, applying for financial aid can be confusing and overwhelming. These resources for both students and professionals take the mystery out of applying for and maintaining financial aid.
Successful completion of the FAFSA or CADAA is the single most important step in ensuring foster youth receive financial aid and subsequently enroll and persist in college, including career and technical education programs.
