The Foster Youth College Success Initiative (FYCSI) is a New York State grant program that provides financial support to eligible undergraduate students who have spent time in foster care. As part of Pratt’s Center for Educational Opportunity, FYCSI helps remove financial barriers so students can focus on thriving academically, socially, and artistically.
What FYCSI Provides
Eligible students may receive up to $5,000 per year to support:
- Tuition and fees
- Housing and meals
- Books, supplies, and course materials
- Transportation and other education-related costs
This funding works alongside your existing financial aid package.
Eligibility
You may be eligible for FYCSI if you:
- Are a New York State resident
- Are enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program at Pratt Institute
- Spent time in foster care in New York or another state after your 13th birthday, including:
- Youth adopted after age 13
- Youth in kinship or guardianship placements
- Youth who aged out of foster care
- Or you are an orphan, both parents deceased before the student is 18 years old, and was not adopted before age 13.
- Or Undocumented immigrant youth who were in foster care on or after their 13th birthday
Eligibility is confirmed through the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS).
How to Get Started
Step 1: Download the Consent Form
Download the OCFS-3165 Foster Youth Consent Form (PDF)
Step 2: Meet with the FYCSI Liaison
The consent form must be submitted through the Center for Educational Opportunity. Schedule a meeting to complete your application and review your eligibility.
You May Also Qualify for the New York State Education and Training Voucher Program.
The Education and Training Voucher (ETV) Program of New York State is designed to help youth who are currently or were in foster care pay for post-secondary education or training by awarding students up to $5,000 a year for qualified school-related expenses. ETV applicants must first complete and submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa) each year before applying for ETV funding.
Think You Might Qualify?
Even if you’re unsure, we encourage you to connect. We’re here to guide you through the process and support your success.
Contact:
Elvis Jimenez
Associate Director (FYCSI Liaison)
Center for Educational Opportunity
ejimene2@pratt.edu
718.636.3524
Myrtle Hall, 6th Floor