Foster Ed and Chaffee Programs Aid Pennsylvania Students Transitioning from Foster Care

The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) held a meeting on July 17, 2025, to discuss funding opportunities for students in foster care, focusing on two key programs: the Chafee Education and Training Grant and the Foster Ed program.

The Chafee program, a federally funded initiative, offers up to $5,000 per year for eligible students with foster care experience. This program aims to support these individuals as they transition into adulthood and pursue higher education. Detailed information about Chafee, including eligibility requirements, is available on the PHEAA website, and inquiries can be directed to their email.

In 2019, the state-run Foster Ed program was established to complement the Chafee grant by covering additional tuition and fees not addressed by Chafee. Both programs share similar eligibility criteria and utilize a single application process, although they have different deadlines. The Chafee application must be submitted by March 31 each year, while the Foster Ed application deadline is May 1.

PHEAA representatives emphasized the importance of these programs for financially struggling students who may lack adequate resources. They encouraged all students, regardless of their circumstances, to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually, as it is a requirement for Chafee eligibility. Students are also urged to apply for state grants and scholarships to maximize their funding opportunities.

The meeting highlighted common mistakes students make when completing applications, with the most frequent issue being improper signatures. Applications must be signed correctly, either by hand or through electronic signature methods outlined on the PHEAA website, to avoid delays in processing.

Overall, the meeting underscored the critical role of financial aid programs in supporting foster care youth in their educational pursuits and the necessity for ongoing advocacy and assistance in navigating these resources.