Scholarship Opportunity

Fostering Futures Scholarship

Offered by MI Student Aid

The Fostering Futures Scholarship provides financial assistance to undergraduate students who experienced foster care in Michigan due to abuse or neglect on or after their 13th birthday. The program is need-based and helps eligible students attending participating Michigan colleges and universities pay educational expenses.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelCollege Freshman, College Sophomore, College Junior, College Senior, Adult Learner

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026-27 Fostering Futures Scholarship

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineDecember 31, 2026

Eligibility

  • Have experienced Michigan foster care due to abuse or neglect on or after the student's 13th birthday.
  • File a current-year FAFSA.
  • Demonstrate financial need.
  • Possess a high school diploma or recognized equivalent.
  • Be enrolled at least half-time at a participating Michigan institution.
  • Be an undergraduate student.
  • Not have earned a bachelor's degree.
  • Meet the institution's Satisfactory Academic Progress policy.
  • Have been a Michigan resident since July 1 of the previous calendar year.
  • If considered a dependent student, have FAFSA contributors who are also Michigan residents.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.
  • Not be in default on a federal student loan.
  • There is no maximum age restriction for eligibility.

Requirements

  • File the current-year FAFSA.
  • Complete the Fostering Futures Scholarship application.
  • Submit the application by the priority deadline for the best opportunity to receive funding.
  • Maintain eligibility and submit a FAFSA each year for continued consideration.

How to Apply

  1. 1Complete the current-year FAFSA and list the intended Michigan institution.
  2. 2Create or log in to a MiSSG Student Portal account.
  3. 3Locate the Fostering Futures Scholarship under My Scholarship Applications.
  4. 4Complete and submit the Fostering Futures Scholarship application.
  5. 5Alternatively, contact the MI Student Aid Customer Care Center to complete the application by phone.
  6. 6Submit the 2026-27 application by December 31, 2026 for priority consideration.
  7. 7Notify MI Student Aid if the Michigan college listed on the FAFSA changes.
  8. 8Continue filing a FAFSA each academic year to maintain an approved application.