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NextUp is a supplemental program of EOPS that provides community college students with a comprehensive array of services to promote college retention and degree attainment. The goal of the program is to equip students to not only achieve their personal and academic goals, but also to navigate any barriers to their success.

For current and prospective IVC students who are interested in joining the NextUp program, read below to learn more about eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

  • In foster care on or after the student’s 13th birthday
  • Under 26 years of age at the beginning of their first academic year in the program (students will not be exited out of the program after age 26)
  • Enrolled in at least 0.5 units or more, with plans to work towards 9 units
  • Provide a foster youth verification letter

Program Services

  • Academic and career counseling
  • Priority registration
  • Book vouchers
  • Classroom supplies
  • Scholarship and financial aid application (FAFSA) assistance
  • Student Success Workshops
  • Coordination of emergency housing, food, and transportation assistance, child care, and mental health services

  How do I request verification of my foster youth status?

Contact your county child welfare agency or probation office for a ward of the court letter.

Contact CDSS to request the verification letter by calling the Foster Care Ombudsman’s Office, toll free at 1-877-846-1602.

How Do I Join NextUp?

If you determined that you may be eligible for NextUp and are interested in joining the program, follow the steps below so an FYSS team member can contact you and support you with next steps.

Complete the EOPS Applciation

You will need to provide us with your Dependency Verification or Ward of the Court Letter. You can obtain these documents by:

  • Foster Youth Students 
    • Former (case is closed): Call the Foster Care Ombudsman Office - CA cases only at (877) 846-1602.
    • Current (case is open): Contact your Social Worker/Case Worker or Probation Officer
    • Foster Youth Help Verification Request Form
  • Cases Outside California: If you need support obtaining verification documents, please email our office at nextup@ivc.edu

IVC Foster Youth Support Services

IVC also offers the Guardian Scholars Program which serves all current and former foster youth who are under the age of 35 and whose dependency was established or continued at any time by the court.

Guardian Scholars Program

NextUp programs provided through the state of California are real opportunities for foster youth at community colleges

State of California NextUp Programs