Chafee Education and Training Voucher Program
Chafee Education and Training Voucher Program supports current and former foster care youth with need-based aid for postsecondary education and training to help cover their college costs.
Funder: Office of Student Access and Completion
Due Dates: May 1, 2026 (Summer 2026) | August 1, 2026 (Fall 2026) | November 1, 2026 (Winter 2027) | February 1, 2027 (Spring 2027)
Funding Amounts: Up to $5,000 per academic year (maximum specified for 2025–2026), based on financial need and available funds
Summary: Need-based support for current and former foster care youth pursuing postsecondary education and training.
Key Information: Applicants must be 25 or younger and meet the program’s foster-care history requirements.
Description
The Chafee Education and Training Voucher Program, also known as the Chafee Grant, helps current and former foster care youth pay for postsecondary education and training. Administered by the Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC), it provides need-based student financial aid rather than research or project funding. Support is coordinated with other aid and linked to the student’s college costs and enrollment.
The Oregon Department of Human Services’ Independent Living Program verifies foster-care eligibility, while OSAC coordinates support with the college listed on the application. Colleges determine financial need after other state and federal grants and include Chafee support in the student’s financial aid package. Funds are delivered through college or university business offices for the terms or semesters students attend.
