The Educational Training Voucher (ETV) program stands as a beacon of hope, federally funded to address the unique educational and training needs of young individuals currently or formerly under the care of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). This initiative is crucial in fostering the potential of young adults transitioning from foster care.
Specifically designed for eligible students aged 16 up to 23, the ETV program provides substantial financial assistance, offering up to $5,000 annually. This funding is intended to facilitate access to college or vocational programs, paving the way for brighter futures. The precise amount of ETV funds disbursed is carefully calculated based on the institution’s cost of attendance, taking into account any other financial aid the student may have secured. It’s important to note that students can benefit from ETV funds for a maximum of 5 years, which can be either consecutive or non-consecutive, allowing flexibility in their educational journey.
Who Qualifies for the ETV Program?
Eligibility for the ETV Program is defined by specific criteria to ensure support reaches those who need it most. You are eligible if you meet one of the following conditions:
- You are at least 16 years old and currently in DFPS foster care or extended foster care.
- You have aged out of DFPS foster care or were legally emancipated by a court while under DFPS foster care, and are not yet 23 years old.
- You were adopted from DFPS foster care after your 16th birthday and are not yet 23 years old.
- You entered the Permanency Care Assistance (PCA) program after turning 16 and are not yet 23.
Furthermore, the ETV program extends its reach to other student populations who have experienced similar challenges:
- Youth placed in the custody of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department or under the jurisdiction of a local juvenile probation department, who were receiving Title IV-E foster care payments just before turning 18 and are not yet 23.
- Tribal youth or young adults in tribal foster care who are not yet 23.
For students taking Dual Credit Courses, the ETV program offers targeted support. Eligible youth enrolled in dual college credit courses, where both high school and college credits are earned simultaneously, can apply for ETV funding to cover college-related expenses. This can include essential items such as books, computers and necessary software, transportation to and from college campuses, and vital tutoring services, ensuring these young scholars have the resources they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.
What Expenses Does ETV Cover?
The ETV Program is designed to be comprehensive, covering a range of expenses that are crucial for a student’s success in their chosen educational path. The program funds expenses as determined by the educational institution where the student is enrolled. These eligible expenses can encompass:
- Housing costs, including rent and utilities, providing stable living arrangements.
- Room and board or food expenses, ensuring basic needs are met.
- Tuition and fees, particularly for institutions that do not accept the state tuition and fee waiver, opening doors to various educational institutions.
- Essential personal items, contributing to overall well-being.
- Textbooks and educational supplies, directly supporting academic endeavors.
- Child care costs, enabling student parents to pursue their education.
- Tutoring services, offering academic support for challenging subjects.
- Transportation expenses, facilitating access to education.
- Computers and related software and equipment, vital tools in today’s learning environment.
- Medical insurance offered through the school, promoting health and wellness.
- Other school-determined costs, addressing individual student needs.
How to Qualify for ETV Funding
To access ETV program benefits, prospective students must meet specific qualifications, ensuring that funds are appropriately allocated to those who are ready for higher education or vocational training. Qualification involves meeting these key criteria:
- Determination of eligibility based on the categories outlined earlier.
- Possession of a high school diploma or GED, or exemption from compulsory school attendance, demonstrating academic preparedness.
- Enrollment in at least 6 semester hours at an accredited institution of higher education, signifying a commitment to further learning.
*It is important to note exceptions for students in dual credit courses or summer semesters, where enrollment can be as low as 3 semester hours. For students considering Online, Correspondence, or Distance courses, prior approval from an ETV staff member is mandatory to ensure these learning formats align with program guidelines.
Choosing Your Educational Institution
The ETV Program provides flexibility in choosing an educational path, allowing students to enroll in a diverse range of accredited or pre-accredited higher education institutions. These include public, private, or non-profit institutions that meet specific criteria, ensuring quality and recognized educational standards. Eligible institutions are those that:
- Offer a bachelor’s degree program or at least a 2-year program that provides credit towards a degree or certification, catering to degree-seeking students.
- Provide at least a one-year training program to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation, focusing on career readiness.
- Offer training programs and have been in operation for at least two years, preparing students for gainful employment in recognized occupations, ensuring established and reliable training opportunities.
For students seeking institutions within Texas, the College For All Texans website offers a comprehensive list of Texas higher education institutions. Additionally, for those interested in skills-based training, Texas Trade Schools and Colleges provides a directory of Texas schools focused on skills training for regional in-demand occupations, connecting students with practical career paths.
Applying for ETV Program Services
Taking the first step towards accessing ETV program benefits is straightforward. To apply, visit Texas ETV to download the necessary ETV application forms and review the required information and supporting documents. This online portal serves as the central hub for application materials and program details.
For personalized assistance and to discuss application specifics or school requirements, the ETV program offers a dedicated hotline. Reach out to an ETV staff member by calling 1-877-268-4063 to receive guidance and support throughout your application journey. This direct line of communication ensures that applicants have access to expert advice and can address any questions or concerns they may have.
