MS HB1424

Waives tuition, room and board, and mandatory student fees for foster children, adopted children (adopted after age 9), and wards of the state at public postsecondary institutions, provided they maintain a 2.25 cumulative grade point average and meet entrance requirements.

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial need; tuition waiver is reduced if combined with other aid exceeds total cost of attendance.

Waiver eligibility applies for up to 2 years after high school graduation, for a maximum of 6 years after first admission, and covers up to 120 collegiate semester credit hours.

Department of Child Protection Services must confirm student eligibility upon institutional request; both the Department and postsecondary boards must report annually to the Legislature on participation and graduation rates.

Public postsecondary institutions must give priority housing to current and former foster youth, with first priority for year-round housing and second priority for housing open the most days annually.