What is Tuition Assistance?

Eligible students who are either currently in foster care or were in foster care at one time may be able to get tuition and fee waivers through an education program called the Missouri Reach Tuition Waiver Program. This program is offered in partnership with the Missouri Department of Higher Education through legislation. Priority is given to:

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are a Missouri resident
  • Graduated high school within the last three years or passed the HiSet exam
  • Have been in foster care or other residential care through the Department of Social Services as of:
  • The day before your 18th birthday
  • The day of your 14th birthday, if you were also eligible for adoption on/after that day
  • The day you graduated from high school or received your HiSet

Are there any requirements?

To be considered for this program, you must:

  • Apply to and be accepted to a school no later than:
    • Three years after you left foster care
    • Three years after you graduated high school or received a HiSet (whichever is earliest)
    • Your 21st birthday
  • Apply for other student financial assistance, other than student loans
  • Apply to the coordinating board for higher education for a determination of eligibility

If you are approved for help, you must also complete at least 100 hours of community service or public internship by September 1 every year that you receive tuition and fee waivers. Continued participation in the program will be determined by academic standing, community service participation, and funding of the program.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted through Foster Care to Success, a national non-profit organization. They will also review your transcripts, confirm your tuition and fees, and work with you to develop a community service action plan. If your application is approved and you are accepted, you will be notified as funding is available on behalf of the Missouri Department of Higher Education.