Foster Child Grant
Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, Office of Student Financial Assistance
Check datesRenews each year
Up to $6,000 a year for Massachusetts foster youth with a DCF care agreement past age 18, at colleges anywhere in the continental U.S.
- How much
- up to $6,000 per year
- Who qualifies
- Current or former Massachusetts foster youth (DCF custody via Care and Protection Petition) with a signed DCF agreement for services beyond 18
- Massachusetts resident (physically residing in MA for at least one year before the term starts, with intent to remain). Under 25 at the start of the academic year; full-time (12+ credits); satisfactory academic progress. Not in default on student loans and no state aid refund owed.
- For students starting college, undergrads
- U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or Title IV-eligible noncitizen; or a state-approved eligibility status under the Massachusetts tuition equity law (MASFA filers)
- Need-based: your FAFSA decides how much you get.
- When to apply
- Check dates No fixed deadline published; apply through OSFA or your DCF social worker.
- How to apply
- File the FAFSA (or MASFA), then contact OSFA at (617) 391-6070 or your DCF social worker to apply
- What you'll need
- FAFSA + state application
- Last checked
- October 22, 2026, against the official page (mass.edu)
The details
For students placed in DCF custody through a Care and Protection Petition who signed a voluntary agreement with the state for care and services past age 18. Up to $6,000 per academic year at an accredited, Title IV-eligible public or private college in Massachusetts or the continental U.S., for up to five consecutive years. Must be under 25 at the start of the academic year and enrolled full-time.
More money from Massachusetts
- MASSGrantup to $2,590 per year (2026-27; varies by SAI and type of school)
- Massachusetts Gilbert Matching Student Grant$200 to $2,500 per year
- Christian A. Herter Memorial Scholarshipup to 50% of calculated financial need per year
- Commonwealth Commitmenttuition and fees frozen + 10% rebate each semester + MassTransfer tuition credit
- Community College Nursing Scholarshipremaining tuition, fees, books and supplies after other grants
Keep looking
- Answer a few questions to see every program you qualify for
- Nearby states: Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont
- Federal aid and national scholarships (open to students in any state)
- The FAFSA in plain English (2027-28)
- Should I file the FAFSA if I don't think I'll qualify?
- FAFSA deadlines by state (2027-28)
- The FAFSA for parents: what you need to do
- How to save on textbooks: free, rented and cheaper options
We list programs; we don't decide who gets them. Always check the official page before you apply. Spot something wrong? Tell us.