The Foster Youth College Success Initiative at SUNY

Expanding Access to College Success

The Foster Youth College Success Initiative (FYCSI) provides resources for adults who previously received foster care services to continue their educational journey. It also supports students with a ward of court and orphancy background. The program's intention is to meet the holistic needs of each FYCSI student to ensure that unnecessary obstacles don't derail a student's educational pursuits.

If you think you are eligible to benefit from this program, find your campus contact and sign up today.

Find Your Campus FYCSI Contact

Between TAP (Tuition Assistance Program), Pell, and FYSCI,
most academic costs (if not all) could be covered.

Who can participate?

If you are a resident of New York State and qualified as a foster child, orphan, or ward of the court since the age of 13, you are eligible for FYCSI.

2 female college students sit on a bench outside smiling while one makes peace sign with her hand.

When life happens, we are there to be your anchor.

What we offer:

Tuition and fees
Meals and housing, including recess/intersession housing
Books and supplies
Transportation
Personal expenses

Additional services and academic supports are made available for eligible youth in care who enroll at SUNY through the Educational Opportunity Program.

Every dream starts with a step.

Apply today!

Students can apply by self-identifying as a foster child, orphan, or ward of the court through the NY State TAP application which will provide you with a consent form. After completing the form, simply email a digital copy to OCFS: Fcy4college@ocfs.ny.gov

Connect with your FYCSI Campus Liaison and they will walk you through the process.