College Supports
Are you thinking about college as your next step?
Find out what type of financial aid is available to you in our DHHS Financial Supports for College/Training document, which outlines options for youth, whether they have permanency guardianship, have been adopted, or are currently in care!
Maine Tuition Waiver Program
If you are thinking about attending college, check out the Tuition Waiver program through the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME). Each Year, 30 waivers are offered and awarded. For recipients of the waiver, the cost of tuition for State of Maine System schools and the Maine Maritime Academy will be waived.
Eligibility:
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Resident of Maine
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Have been accepted into the school you plan to attend at the time of application
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Were in foster care when they graduated from high school or obtained their HSET.
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Were adopted from foster care or entered permanent guardianship through DHHS.
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The parent or guardian currently receives an adoption or permanent guardianship subsidy with DHHS.
The waivers are awarded on a first-come basis, and all applications are due in February. For more information, visit the FAME website.
Alumni Transition Grant Program (ATGP):
The DHHS Alumni Transition Grant Program (ATGP) provide financial assistance and support to eligible young people who have aged out of foster care while completing their post-secondary education. Grants are awarded to forty (40) students each academic school year.
Eligibility:
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Between the ages of 21-27 years old
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Aged out of Maine’s foster care system at 18.
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Enrolled in a postsecondary education program at time of the Extended care agreement ended at age of 23
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Not completed a Bachelor’s Degree
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Currently enrolled in an associate or bachelor degree program or an accredited job training program.
For more information about ATGP, click here