Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program
Consistent with its mission and core values, Mercyhurst University is excited to welcome the Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program for qualifying individuals.
Benefits
The Fostering Independence program provides a waiver for tuition and mandatory fees for youth who are or were in foster care (see program eligibility requirements below). This waiver applies only to charges that remain after all other gift aid (federal, state, and other scholarships or grants) have been applied to the student’s account. Other benefits include referrals and coordinated support for admissions, housing, financial aid, health, tutoring, career, academic advising and other services.
Eligibility
To be considered for a Fostering Independence Tuition Education Waiver, you must:
- Be a Pennsylvania resident
- Be under the age of 26
- Have received a high school diploma or equivalent approved credential
- Be eligible for services under Pennsylvania's John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood
- Be identified as a youth in foster care or a youth discharged or adopted from foster care at age 16
- Exited foster care on or after age 16 to adoption or permanent legal custodianship
- Be enrolled as an undergraduate, at least half time in a postsecondary institution that is approved by the U.S. Department of Education for Title IV student assistance programs
- Demonstrate financial need for the PA Chafee Education and Training Grant (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
- Not be in default on a federal student loan
- File a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Resources
Contact Us
Susan Reddinger
ADA Coordinator/Paralegal
Phone: 814-824-2362
Email: sreddinger@mercyhurst.edu