This page uses javascript to help render elements, if you have problems please enable javascript.
 
Skip to main content
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
You are now inside the main content area
 
 
 
left col
right col
 
left col

Guardian Scholars

right col
 
left col
right col
 
left col

The Guardian Scholars Program supports current and former foster youth with resources, community, and opportunities to succeed in college.

right col
 
left col

What is the Guardian Scholars Program

  • Established as the first program of its kind in the nation, the Guardian Scholars Program at Cal State Fullerton was created to support current and former foster youth in achieving success in higher education. 
  • In 2023, the program expanded to include graduate and post-baccalaureate students, reaffirming CSUF’s commitment to educational access and lifelong achievement for foster youth.
  • Housed within the Center for Scholars (CFS), the Guardian Scholars Program is part of a powerful community dedicated to academic excellence, personal growth, and professional development.
  • Cal State Fullerton proudly serves one of the largest populations of foster youth in the CSU system, offering a strong network of resources, mentors, and peers who understand the unique journey of each student.

Guardian Scholars Eligibility 

  1. Open year-round to current and former foster youth
  2. Available to undergraduate, transfer, and graduate students
  3. Must provide Foster Youth Verification Letter

Benefits

  • Priority Registration: Early access to register for classes each semester 
  • Complimentary Transportation Resource: Guardian Scholars can request a parking permit or an Orange County bus pass for the fall and spring semesters
  • Technology Resource: As resources are available, Guardian Scholars may receive one personal laptop during their academic career at CSU Fullerton
  • Special Invitations: Opportunities to attend and support university events
  • Access to the Center for Scholars: Includes free printing, holistic advising, and scholar programming

How to Apply

*Applications Open Year Round

  • Step 1: Complete the Guardian Scholars Foster Youth Program Application
  • Step 2: Applicants must send a copy of their foster youth verification to CSUF Guardian Scholars so we can confirm eligibility. Email documentation to guardianscholars@fullerton.edu
  • If you need assistance obtaining this documentation, you can request if from you social worker, ILP Coordinator, the county you were in care, or the state.
    • You can request a copy online from the state at https://fosteryouthhelp.ca.gov/ (Click "Contact Us", then from the dropdown select "Verification Request Form")
right col
 
left col
right col
background images and color
background images and color
left col

Two students posing in front of balloon arc and smiling

Apply for the Guardian Scholars Program! 

A foster youth program which provides holistic support services & academic resources to for current and former foster youth at CSUF. Basic eligibility criteria:

  • Are a current or former foster youth
  • Current or prospective CSUF student

Applicants will be asked to provide a copy of their foster youth verification documentation or ward of court letter to us for verification via email, scholars@fullerton.edu.

Applications OPEN year-round!

Apply Here 

right col