It is that time of year when high school seniors busy themselves filling out college applications and the FAFSA. But for the estimated 26,000 of unaccompanied homeless youth throughout Illinois, barriers to applying for financial aid and attending college can seem insurmountable.

The good news is that the College Cost and Reduction Access Act allows unaccompanied homeless youth and self-supporting youth who are at-risk of homelessness to apply for financial aid. They can apply as independent students without the signature or financial information of a parent or guardian. 20 U.S.C. § 1087vv(d). 

However, a youth’s living status must be verified by a school district homeless liaison or shelter personnel.  

Because so many homeless youth are unable to access shelter due to the extremely limited number of shelter beds, the school liaison’s role in identification and verification is critical. School personnel and other adults working with unaccompanied youth should make sure those youth are identified as homeless by their school districts and receive verification letters prior to the end of their senior year.

By providing the necessary information and support, liaisons and counselors can make college a reality for homeless youth who never thought it possible.  Here is a sample FAFSA letter.

-- Beth Cunningham, Youth Attorney