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.
What We Do
We provide a wide-range of services to help students get the most out of their University experiences to earn their degree.
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.
Comprehensive support services include:
- Educational counseling and academic advisement
- Financial aid guidance
- Priority registration
- Book grants
- Transportation subsidies
- On-campus housing support
- Career exploration workshops
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, Cal Poly Pomona, 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.
Upcoming Events
National Foster Care Month
May is National Foster Care Month (NFCM). See what the Guardian Scholars Program has planned.