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Eligibility

  • Current or former Foster Youth/ Ward of Court (including Juvenile Justice System)
  • Resided in out-of-home placement on or after 13th birthday
  • Enrolled or planning to enroll in at least 1 unit at OCC
  • Age 25 or under at the start of the academic year

Special Circumstance Consideration

Students are considered a special circumstance student, if any of the following apply:

  • If you have exited the foster care system before the age of 13
  • If you were incarcerated or on probation with but had no out-of-home placement upon release
  • If you have no lived foster care experience
  • If you were placed in Guardianship and/or KinGap but never had a foster care placement
  • If you are between the ages 26-30 and have no history of enrolling in a Guardian Scholar/NextUp program
Our Special circumstance application opens only once per academic year and admits on a limited basis. Please contact our office for more information.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the online Guardian Scholars Application
  2. Provide a copy of your Ward of Court/Dependency Verification Letter
  3. Make an appointment with a Guardian Scholars Specialist to complete a New Student Orientation and Welcome Meeting

 

Program Expectations

  • Participation in all aspects of the program
  • Maintenance of an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher
  • Continuous enrollment at Orange Coast College
  • Appropriate conduct and community behavior in accordance with Orange Coast College standards
♦ If you plan to live at The Harbour on-campus apartments, please schedule an appointment with one of our program Specialist before signing a lease. It is crucial we determine if The Harbour is the right fit for you.