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.
Congrats, Class of 2026!
Access photos from our end-of-the-year GSP Senior Recognition Ceremony.
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.