Helping Foster Care Youth Obtain a RIC Degree
Our program aims to provide transformative educational opportunities for Foster Care youth by providing a pathway to admission, academic and personal success, and degree completion at Rhode Island College. In collaboration with Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) and other relevant state agencies, RIC will be adding highly-deserving foster youth to its vibrant student community.
Quick Program Overview
The collaboration between RIC and state agencies will allow for specific eligibility guidelines, a unique admissions process and applicant selection, and customized services to ensure personal and academic student success. During pursuit of a degree, students will not have to face financial barriers stemming from their eduction, as tuition and fees and room and board will be fully covered.
All Program Details
Understand all there is to know about eligibility criteria, the application and selection process, and provided program benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicant eligibility depends on age, as well as residency, academic standing, and financial need.
Age of Applicant
Youth must be within the age range for Foster Care eligibility:
- youth who exited foster care between the ages of eighteen (18) years and twenty-one 3 (21) years.
- youth who leave foster care at age fourteen (14) years or older for guardianship or adoption, until they reach age of twenty-six (26) years.
- youth who had been in foster care for six (6) months or more between the ages of fourteen (14) years and twenty-one (21) years, or were participating in the voluntary extension of care, pursuant to § 14-1-6, and left this status for some reason other than aging out of foster care, kinship, guardianship or adoption
- children likely to remain in foster care until age eighteen (18) years
- youth in foster care who have graduated from high school or received the equivalent 12 of a high school diploma
- youth in foster care who have not reached their twenty-sixth birthday
Residency, Academic Standing, Financial Need
- must be a resident of Rhode Island and in Foster Care within the state
- must maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by Rhode Island College
- must demonstrate financial need based on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or state-alternative Financial Aid Application
Application and Selection Process
The application process will occur annually, with specific deadlines communicated through Rhode Island College and state Foster Care agencies, and with RIC connecting with DCYF to confirm applicant eligibility. All applicants will be assessed by a selection committee, composed of representatives from Rhode Island College, state Foster Care agencies, and community stakeholders.
Application Components
- completed application form
- proof of Foster Care status in Rhode Island
- financial documentation (FAFSA or state-specific forms)
- academic transcripts and letters of recommendation
Selection Criteria
- demonstrated academic potential and commitment to education
- financial need and eligibility as per program guidelines
- personal statements or interviews may be included to assess motivation and goals
Program Benefits
The benefits to applicants are substantial:
Tuition & Fees | Room and Board
Full tuition and fees coverage is provided to students for undergraduate programs, after all federal, state, and/or institutional grant/scholarship aid has been applied. Additionally, students are provided with on-campus housing and meal plans for the academic year and all breaks, including summer sessions.
Support Services
Students are provided with plentiful access to academic advising, mentoring, campus resources, and wrap around services.
