You asked about the Department of Children and Families (DCF) post-secondary school tuition benefit program for foster children, particularly those who entered this country illegally.

DCF provides tuition reimbursement for foster children who choose to remain under DCF supervision when they turn age 18 (DCF Policy #42-20-20). Eligible children are students who (1) demonstrate the desire to pursue post high school education, (2) voluntarily agree to remain under DCF's guardianship, and (3) understand that funding may end at their 21^st birthday. The student must enroll in a full-time, licensed or accredited course and remain in good academic standing as defined by the school attended.

He must pay $ 250 each semester and apply for all appropriate scholarships, grants, and financial aid. DCF then pays the balance, including:

1. tuition, fees, room and board if living on campus;

2. books and tutoring;

3. commuting; and

4. health insurance premiums.

The DCF social worker assigned to the student's case must keep in contact with him and review his grades each quarter to ensure he remains eligible for financial assistance.

Undocumented children who are committed to DCF (e. g. those who enter the United States without a parent or guardian) are eligible for a special exception from immigration laws and cannot be deported while committed. DCF social workers must assist them in applying for an alien registration card (green card) as soon as possible. If the card is not issued before a child turns 18, he will not be permitted to complete the process and may be deported. But children with green cards who otherwise meet eligibility criteria are entitled to the tuition benefit (DCF Policy #31-8-13).

We enclose a copy of the department's policies.

SP: dw