By Alishba Sardar, Class of 2023 UC Berkeley, NorCal Promise Fellow, and Students Rising Above Scholar
Policymakers often overlook foster youth when deciding state and federal policy. This includes policies related to financial aid and postsecondary education. For foster youth, getting a higher education provides stability and security, yet paying for
college is one of the most difficult obstacles for them to overcome. Only 4% of former or current foster youth graduate from college by age 26.
Paying for college can be complicated, especially for students from the child welfare system as they may navigate it without parental support. Congress needs to double the Pell Grant for foster youth and disadvantaged students, such as those experiencing
homelessness or who have a disability, in order for them to graduate from college.
For foster youth and other disadvantaged students, school is not the only priority. Many constantly worry about having a roof over their head, paying for food, supporting family members; the list goes on. How can one expect students to give academia their
full attention when they have to constantly pay for their necessities?
As someone from the foster care system, I am highly dependent on the university to live, and I understand the difficulties that come with being a student. I spend my time working part-time and applying for scholarships that can help me pay for my needs,
such as medical bills, buying professional clothing for job interviews, household essentials, and making my rent for the academic year, winter, and summer break. These are all costs outside of my tuition that I have to cover.
When asked how doubling the Pell Grant can support underrepresented groups, my peer Serran Lewis said:
“As a re-entry former foster youth student, I had a high interest in the outcomes of foster youth as my experiences were very challenging to get me to UC Berkeley. I did some research for an honor thesis, worked directly with foster youth before coming
to Cal, and have family still receiving services. ... I graduated from UC Berkeley at age 27. I know many former foster youths who are struggling with housing during college. Extra funding would help alleviate the challenges our community faces.”
Foster youth and other historically underrepresented student populations on college campuses are frequently ignored due to the equity gap in higher education. College allows people to explore the world around them and learn to help their communities achieve
opportunities. However, students cannot simply enjoy college while feeling financially insecure.
By strengthening the Pell Grant, students will have the opportunity to focus on their academics and participate in college life without constantly worrying about tuition and housing.
As the American economy recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the price of housing and tuition is increasing, yet the purchasing power of the Pell Grant has stayed the same. Today, the Pell Grant
covers less than 30% of the cost of college, according to the National College Attainment Network. If Congress takes the necessary action to increase the maximum Pell Grant amount, over 80% of public colleges will become affordable for students of
low-income status. With a stronger Pell Grant, more than just 4% of foster youth can graduate from college. Doubling the Pell Grant will only lead to more opportunities, as this policy would reduce equity gaps in higher education by making college
more affordable for the disadvantaged community.
Everyone deserves a chance to pursue what they are passionate about without facing economic barriers. Members of Congress hold power over the joy of learning and giving opportunities that can help individuals excel and achieve their dreams. We cannot
continue to ignore the equity gap in higher education and leave so many students behind.
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