Best Scholarships For Orphans And Foster Youth
Here are some of the best scholarships available for orphans and foster youth. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition, living expenses, and other academic needs.
Government-Funded Scholarships
These scholarships are provided by governments to help foster youth and orphans pursue higher education.
The Chafee Education and Training Voucher (ETV) Program (USA)
Offers up to $5,000 per year for college or vocational training. Available to current and former foster youth up to age 26. Website: childwelfare.gov
The Fostering Futures Scholarship (USA – Michigan)
Covers tuition and fees for foster youth at Michigan colleges and universities.
Tuition Waivers for Foster Youth (Various States, USA)
Many U.S. states offer tuition waivers for foster youth attending public colleges.
The Orphans and Vulnerable Children Education Fund (Various Countries)
Provides financial aid to orphans in developing nations.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities offer dedicated scholarships for students who have experienced foster care or lost parents.
The Guardian Scholars Program (Multiple Universities, USA)
Provides financial aid, mentorship, and support services for foster youth. Available at universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and Florida State University.
The Horatio Alger Association Scholarship (USA & Canada)
Offers scholarships to students who have overcome adversity, including orphans and foster youth.
The Oxford Orphans’ Scholarship (UK)
Covers tuition fees for orphans studying at the University of Oxford.
Nonprofit and Private Organization Scholarships
Several organizations offer scholarships specifically for orphans and foster youth.
The LifeSet Scholars Program (USA)
Provides financial aid and career guidance for foster youth attending college.
The James Alan Cox Foundation Scholarship (USA)
Available for orphans and children of deceased military or public service workers.
The Ann and Peter Ziegler Scholarship (UK & USA)
Assists orphans and children in foster care pursuing higher education.
The UNESCO Orphan Education Scholarship (Global)
Supports orphans in developing countries with educational funding.
Scholarships for Children of Deceased Military or Public Service Workers
Some scholarships are available specifically for children who have lost parents in military or public service.
The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (USA)
Provides full tuition and housing allowances for children of fallen military service members.
The Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship (USA)
Covers Pell Grant-eligible students whose parents died in public service (e.g., police, firefighters).
The Commonwealth Orphans’ Scholarship (UK & Commonwealth Nations)
Helps orphans in Commonwealth countries access higher education.
International and Specialized Scholarships
These scholarships cater to orphans worldwide or specific groups.
The SOS Children’s Villages Scholarship (Global)
Supports orphaned students in need of financial aid.
The World Orphan Fund Education Scholarship (Developing Countries)
Offers tuition and living expenses for orphans pursuing higher education.
The Lumos Foundation Scholarship (Europe & Africa)
Supports young people transitioning from orphanages to independent living and education.
How to Apply for These Scholarships
Check eligibility to ensure you meet the criteria related to foster care, orphan status, or financial need. Prepare documents such as birth certificates, financial statements, and recommendation letters. Apply early as many scholarships have strict deadlines. Seek mentorship from programs that provide guidance during the application process.
