Foster Youth Student Success
The El Camino College Foster Youth Student Success programs, NextUp and Guardian Scholars, support students with current or former foster care experience in achieving academic, professional, and personal success through dedicated student support services and advocacy efforts.
Foster Youth Student Success ProgramFoster Youth Student Success Programs
The goal of the Foster Youth Student Success Programs is to build a supportive community for foster youth students to thrive, while providing quality service that gives you the opportunity to develop your educational dreams and interpersonal skills on your journey toward becoming one of the leaders of tomorrow.
Attend workshops on career, financial aid, transfer and life skills topics. Learn about the programs' application process, eligibility requirements, and more!
El Camino College NextUp provides participating current and former foster youth with support and resources while on the path to achieving their goals.
Sometimes the hardest part about getting your college education is steering your way around all the bumps in the road. Most students will face challenges throughout this journey. That’s where NextUp comes in.
The NextUp program offers student support services to eligible current or former foster youth that assists with books and supplies, tutoring, and basic needs support, such as meal and transportation assistance.
Additionally, NextUp provides counseling and career guidance, academic coaching, and unmet need grants to assist with other non-tuition related costs for current or former foster youth.
How to Apply
Applying for Fall 2025? Submit the following application --> EOPS/CARE & Foster Youth Services Program Application
In order to qualify for the NextUp program at El Camino College, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a current or former foster youth in California whose dependency was established on or after their 13th birthday
- Be no older than 25 years of age at the commencement of any academic year in which the student first enrolls in the program
- Be enrolled in at least 9 units (Students enrolled in less units may be accepted into the program, contact us for more details)
*If unsure about your eligibility, please contact our office and speak with a Foster Youth Student Success team member.
Benefits
- Dedicated NextUp counselors
- Basic Needs Referrals
- NextUp Textbook Voucher
- NextUp Supply Voucher
- NextUp Unmet Need Grants *Contingent upon available funding
- Workshops, Events, & Community Building Activities
El Camino College Guardian Scholars creates a welcoming and supportive environment for students who are in and or have been in Foster Care.
Our goal is to empower you to reach your full potential and achieve your academic, personal, and career goals. Guardian Scholars promotes self-advocacy by establishing meaningful connections and a support network within the El Camino College community for current or former foster youth.
How to Apply
Applying for Fall 2025? Submit the following application --> EOPS/CARE & Foster Youth Services Program Application
In order to qualify for the Guardian Scholars program at El Camino College, students must complete the following steps:
- Apply for admission to El Camino College
- Submit a Foster Youth Services Application
- Meet with an academic counselor to develop an educational plan
- Must enroll in six units (exceptions may apply)
Benefits
- Dedicated counselors
- Personal guidance and mentoring
- Community enrichment activities
- Admission and enrollment assistance
- Book and supply vouchers *Contingent upon available funding
- School supplies
- Assistance qualifying for Priority Registration
Information & Services
The Foster Youth Student Success Programs, NextUp and Guardian Scholars, are located in the Student Services Building Room 227 and is open from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday- Friday.
Apply to Receive Foster Youth Services
Learn about the programs' application process, eligibility requirements, and more!
Staff Contact
Meet the staff dedicated to help you succeed.
Workshops & Community Building Events
Attend workshops on career, financial aid, transfer and life skills topics. Workshops are offered throughout the semester and are available to all NextUp and Guardian Scholars students.
Basic Needs Center
At the Basic Needs Center, you'll find free and low-cost basic needs services, resources, and support.
Student Health Services
Student Health Services (SHS) at is committed to providing excellent, comprehensive outpatient clinical care to promote and maintain the health and well-being of our students.
California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth
If you are or were in foster care for at least one day, between the ages of 16 and 18 as a dependent or ward of the court and have financial need, you may qualify! This grant provides up to $5,000 a year for career and technical training or college.
Real Stories
Watch a video about real community college students — current and former foster youth
like you — who received help through NextUp.
Questions? Contact Us
NextUp Program
Student Services Building 227
(310) 660-3593 ext. 3438
Business Hours:
Monday-Friday, 8:00 am- 5:00 pm