Eligibility & Application
To Apply to NextUp Follow These Steps
| Task List | Follow-Up |
|---|---|
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Check that you Meet the Eligibility Requirements Below
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Enroll at Merced College
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| Complete the FAFSA application OR California Application for Dream Act (CADA) |
Financial Aid Dept. will send an email to your Merced College student email letting you know if you need to submit documents through Verify My FAFSA.
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| Verify Current/Former Foster Youth Status & Complete CHAFEE Application |
Contact Marysol Contreras
Financial Aid Foster Youth Liaison 209-384-6036 [email protected] OR Complete the California Foster Care Ombudsperson Verification Request Form |
| Register for college credit courses |
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| Complete NextUp Digital Forms | NextUp Application & Contracts |
| Complete NextUp Orientation |
Reach out to Kiah at 209-384-6077 or [email protected] to schedule the orientation.
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| Meet with NextUp Counselor (Rene) | A staff member will schedule your appointment after eligibility has been verified. |
| Sign End of Semester Review & Book Service Contract | A staff member will email you this through AdobeSign after your academic counselor appointment. You will need to review and sign. |
| Apply for the EOPS program if eligible | EOPS application |
Eligibility Requirements
- Under the age of 26 at the beginning of the academic year that they are applying for NextUp Services
- California Resident (AB 540/CA DREAMers may apply)
- A current or former foster youth that was in care for at least one day after the age of 13
- Enrolled in college credit coursework at Merced College
Fun Fact
Once you have been a NextUp participant at any California Community College you are eligible to rejoin the program or remain in NextUp after the age of 26.
If you were in NextUp at Merced College and need verification for another California Community College please have them contact Kiah at [email protected]. Please send an email authorizing the release of this information as well.