Oregon DHS Introduces Tuition Waiver Program for Homeless Youth Pursuing Higher Education

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has initiated a groundbreaking Tuition and Fee Waiver Program targeting young adults under the age of 25 who have experienced homelessness. The program is specifically designed to assist this vulnerable population in pursuing undergraduate degrees at Oregon's public universities and community colleges. By waiving any remaining tuition and fees after the application of other financial aid sources, the initiative significantly lowers financial hurdles, thereby fostering a pathway to education and stability for youth who have faced considerable challenges.

At the program’s heart lies the belief that all young people, regardless of their past circumstances, deserve the opportunity to pursue a meaningful future. According to Matthew Rasmussen, manager of the ODHS Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program, “College can feel out of reach for young people who have experienced homelessness, and this program tells them that Oregon knows their future is worth investing in.” This powerful message not only reflects an understanding of their struggles but also provides hope and validation for their aspirations.

The operational framework of the Tuition and Fee Waiver Program stipulates that applicants must have been homeless independently for a minimum of six months between the ages of 14 and 24, and must also have received services from a partner organization within the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program when they were 16 or older. Eligible students are required to complete either the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) and be enrolled in at least one course credit towards their undergraduate degree. Importantly, the waiver is categorized as a