The Cal State LA Guardian Scholars Program creates a space within the University where participants may thrive through self-empowerment, engaged learning, and greater awareness and understanding of themselves.We provide advocacy, mentorship, and guidance that will contribute to a positive, rewarding, and successful college-going experience for foster youth.
2025 GSP Senior Recognition
Congratulations Class of 2025! Please feel free to view and download photos from our Senior Recognition Celebration.
What We Do
We provide pre-admission counseling through outreach and recruitment events in partnership with Los Angeles County, caregivers, service providers, and other community-based programs that support foster youth.
- Priority registration
- Academic/Financial Aid advising
- Workshops (life skills & educational)
- Peer-to-peer support
- Connections to on/off campus resources
- Bookgrants/free test materials
- Leadership and career development
- Access to health and well-being services
Summer and Winter tuition sponsorship may be available
Los Angeles County Independent Living Program (ILP) coordination occurs on-site and remotely. This allows ILP-eligible students to access financial resources without missing classes to meet with a social worker.
A three-day retreat at Pali Institute in Running Springs, CA. The Guardian Scholar programs from Cal State LA, CSULB, CSUF, CSUDH, Rio Hondo, and LACC come together as a community to develop connections, enhance life skills, such as wellness, financial literacy, and self-efficacy, and recharge their mind by connecting with nature and fellow students who share similarities throughout their life journey.
Become a Guardian Scholar
Guardian Scholars accepts applications year-round. Current and new Cal State LA students can apply at any time.