Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act

The Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act would strengthen financial support for foster youth pursuing college, vocational training, or other postsecondary education. The bill would increase the maximum Education and Training Voucher (ETV) amount from $5,000 to $12,000 per year, addressing the fact that the voucher cap has not changed since the program was created in 2001. This increase would be implemented without raising total program funding.

The bill would also reduce barriers that prevent foster youth from accessing and maintaining these vouchers. It would allow states to establish grace periods for students who temporarily fall behind on academic progress requirements, helping them stay eligible for funding while getting back on track. Additionally, the legislation would require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a standardized application form for the vouchers and require states to make greater efforts to inform eligible youth about the program, since many foster youth are currently unaware the vouchers exist.