IL SB2818

Changes terminology from "children" to "youth" throughout the scholarship and fee waiver program for former foster care recipients.

Expands eligibility to include youth who aged out of care at age 18 or older, in addition to youth currently under care or formerly adopted/in guardianship placements.

Broadens educational qualification requirements to accept high school diplomas from public or recognized nonpublic schools, GED certificates, or meeting state high school graduation criteria (replacing the previous requirement of 4 years in an accredited high school).

Maintains the maximum of 48 annual scholarship recipients, with at least 4 reserved for children of veterans, eligible for 4 consecutive years of tuition and fee waivers at Illinois state universities and colleges.

Department continues to provide maintenance and school expenses (excluding tuition and fees) contingent on students maintaining acceptable scholastic records.