CT HB06563

Increases the age of eligibility for the Department of Children and Families postsecondary education funding program from age 21 to 26 for initial qualification and from age 23 to 28 for youth already enrolled in a program.

Requires all youth receiving postsecondary education funding to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for relevant scholarships and grants annually as a condition of funding.

Establishes a pilot program effective January 1, 2024, to provide financial assistance for postsecondary education to youth adopted by Connecticut residents through other states' foster care programs on or after January 1, 2005.

Pilot program financial assistance covers tuition, fees, room and board, and books up to the maximum cost of attendance at a Connecticut State University System in-state residential student, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Appropriates $150,000 to the Department of Children and Families for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, for the pilot program and requires a report on pilot program effectiveness by January 1, 2025.