Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
- Raises the federal voucher cap for foster youth in college or job training from $5,000 to $12,000 per year, and makes applying easier.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: current and former foster youth pursuing college or vocational training, plus state agencies running the program.
- Loses: no one materially; the bill expands an existing benefit but does not cut other programs.
What it does
- Amends Section 477 of the Social Security Act, more than doubling the voucher maximum to $12,000.
- Lets states grant a grace period if a youth temporarily struggles to stay enrolled.
- Requires a simplified, user-tested electronic application form with standard terms.
- Orders Health and Human Services (HHS) to write guidance with input from former foster youth.
Why should I care?
About 20,000 teens age out of foster care yearly, and only roughly 3% earn a bachelor's degree by 26. Supporters say $5,000 hasn't kept pace with tuition, housing, and books. Critics argue states should fix outreach gaps before Congress doubles federal spending. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.