DCFS 2025 Scholarship Program: Opening doors to higher education for current and former youth in care

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) recently launched our 2025 Scholarship Program, marking a transformative expansion in educational opportunities for youth in care. This initiative represents more than financial assistance – it embodies hope, possibility and the state's commitment to supporting young people beyond their 18th birthday.

Breaking barriers through education

Under Governor Pritzker's leadership and with strong backing from the Illinois General Assembly, the program has seen unprecedented growth.

Youth in care often face unique challenges in pursuing higher education, from financial constraints to a lack of support systems. The DCFS Scholarship Program directly addresses these barriers by providing comprehensive support that extends beyond traditional financial aid.

“I am eternally grateful for the safety net the Illinois DCFS scholarship provided me. I would not be the educator, leader or equity-advocate I am today without the opportunities it afforded me,” said Timeica E. Bethel. “Although I received a full scholarship to attend Yale University, I soon found there were many expenses that weren’t covered by financial aid. In addition to expensive textbooks and other materials for classes, I had to pay dues for some student organizations and purchase items for my dorm, pay to do my laundry and more. As a first-generation, low-income student, I was taken aback by how much I had to cover out of pocket.”

Comprehensive support package

Scholarship recipients receive up to five consecutive years of tuition and academic fee waivers to be used at colleges and universities, community colleges and trade schools, a monthly grant of $1,577 to offset other expenses and a Medicaid card.

Four awards are reserved for the children of veterans, and two awards are reserved for students pursuing degrees in social work in honor of Pamela Knight and Deidre Silas, two DCFS caseworkers who succumbed to injuries sustained in the line of duty.

Who can apply?

Youth who currently have an open DCFS case, have had their case closed through adoption or guardianship or have aged out of care at age 18 or older are eligible to apply through March 31, 2025. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on academic achievement, active participation in community and extracurricular activities and demonstrated commitment to higher education. Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation and a personal essay describing their educational goals and aspirations.

Creating lasting change

By investing in our youth in care, DCFS is not just funding education—it's building futures, strengthening communities and creating pathways to success that ripple through generations.

To apply

The 2025 Scholarship application is available at https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/program/ILDCFS2025. Students are strongly encouraged to submit their applications in advance of the March 31 deadline. Students or caregivers may email the DCFS Office of Education and Transition Services at [email protected] with questions about the application process or for more information.