Forward Steps Guardian Scholars

Forward Steps believes in providing the support that foster youth need in order to earn a postsecondary education and accomplish YOUR dreams. We are here to help YOU succeed!

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Forward Steps is now accepting applications on a rolling basis for the 2025-2026 academic year!

• Applicants must have verifiable experience in the foster care system. More information about confirmation of foster care can be found here.
• First-time applicants must apply before their 26th birthday.
• Applicants must be residents of Colorado and plan to attend or are currently attending a postsecondary institution in Colorado.
• Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED before beginning their first semester of college.
• Applicants must demonstrate unmet financial need determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA).

Guardian Scholar Financial Assistance

Our program provides financial assistance of up to $3000/per scholar/per semester to cover unmet financial need while pursuing a postsecondary education. Scholars also utilize 1:1 mentoring, and resource navigation and wrap around supports, as needed.

Documents Required for Complete Application

• A copy of your high school transcripts (of FED) and, if applicable, transcripts from any previously attended college.
• FAFSA summary page generated by completing a FAFSA Application or supplying a copy of the completion results of the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA) form.
• Signed “Confirmation of Foster Care Dependency Form.” Please contact us if you have questions about how to obtain this documentation.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must have verifiable experience in the foster care system.
• First-time applicants must apply before their 26th birthday.
• Applicants must be residents of Colorado and plan to attend, or are currently attending a public Colarado postsecondary institution (i.e. a community college, trade school, or 4-year university).
• Scholars must have a high school diploma or a GED before beginning their first semester of college.
• Applicants must meet financial aid requirements and demonstrate unmet financial need.