The Passport to Careers program helps former foster youth and unaccompanied homeless youth prepare for and succeed in college, apprenticeships, or pre-apprenticeship programs.
Through Passport to Careers, eligible students receive a scholarship for up to $1,500 per quarter that assists with the cost of attending college (tuition, fees, books, housing, transportation, and some personal expenses) and support services from college staff.
Eligibility
Were you a dependent of the State of Washington and in foster care on your 18th birthday?
To meet eligibility requirements for a former foster youth, Passport students must:
- Spend at least one year in foster care in Washington state after your 13th birthday.
- Be a resident of Washington State.
- Enroll at least half-time in an eligible college by the age of 22.
- Not already have a bachelor's degree.
- Not be pursuing a degree in theology.
Are you considered an unaccompanied homeless youth? A young adult who is experiencing homelessness and is not legally dependent on a parent or guardian.
To meet eligibility requirements for an unaccompanied homeless youth, Passport students must:
- Have experienced unaccompanied homelessness on or after July in the year prior to their postsecondary enrollment (after high school).
- Be a resident of Washington State.
- Enroll at least half-time in an eligible college by the age of 22.
- Not already have a bachelor's degree.
- Not be pursuing a degree in theology.
For more information about Passport apprenticeship opportunities, visit https://wsac.wa.gov/passport/about or reach out to Ariana Muro at amuro@lowercolumbia.edu.
If you meet these requirements, please make an appointment with Ariana Muro
Email: amuro@lowercolumbia.edu
Phone: 360-442-2332
Make a direct appointment through my appointment link: lowercolumbia.edu/amuro
Additional funding and services you may qualify for:
- Basic Food Education and Training (BFET) - childcare assistance, maintenance of food benefits, academic and financial aid support, and more.
- Career & Employment Services - career exploration, job search assistance, and more.
- Counseling Services - educational or personal counseling available.
- Start Next Quarter - additional special funding for students who qualify.
- TRiO Program - transfer support for students who qualify.