From homelessness to higher education: Oregon program offers free college to youth

July 9, 2026 - 19:25

Oregon's Department of Human Services has launched a program that removes the biggest barrier to higher education for young people who have experienced homelessness. Eligible youth can now attend participating public colleges in the state without paying tuition or fees, covering both two-year and four-year degree programs.

The initiative targets individuals under the age of 25 who have faced homelessness, offering them a direct path to higher education without the burden of upfront costs. To qualify, applicants must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as FAFSA, or the Oregon Student Aid Application, called ORSAA. There is no application deadline, meaning eligible young people can apply at any time.

This move addresses a critical gap. Young people who have experienced unstable housing often lack the financial safety net to pursue college, even when they have the academic qualifications. By waiving tuition and fees, the state aims to break cycles of poverty and instability, giving these students a realistic shot at building long-term careers.

The program covers a range of public institutions across Oregon, from community colleges to universities. For those who have aged out of foster care or couch-surfed through high school, this is more than a financial waiver. It is an acknowledgment that their past circumstances should not define their future earning potential or educational opportunities. While details on the total number of participants are not yet available, the lack of a deadline suggests the state expects a steady flow of applicants as word spreads through shelters, high schools, and social service networks. For many, this could be the first real chance they have had to plan for a life beyond survival.