LEXINGTON, Ky. — An increasing number of foster and adopted youth in Kentucky are taking advantage of the state's college tuition waiver program designed specifically for them, according to a new report.

The report from WUKY 91.3 FM highlights growing awareness and utilization of the state's tuition assistance program for youth who have experienced foster care or adoption through the state system.

Kentucky's tuition waiver for foster and adopted youth is a state-funded program designed to remove financial barriers to higher education for young people who have faced significant challenges during their formative years. The program covers tuition at Kentucky's public colleges and universities, allowing eligible students to pursue degrees without accumulating tuition-related debt.

The increased usage of the program reflects both expanded awareness of the benefit among eligible youth and improved outreach efforts by state agencies and educational institutions. Historically, foster youth have faced significant barriers to pursuing post-secondary education, including financial constraints, lack of family support systems, and limited access to college counseling and preparation resources.

According to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, foster youth and young adults aging out of state custody face disproportionately high rates of homelessness, unemployment, and economic instability without access to educational support. The tuition waiver program addresses these disparities by making college more accessible and affordable for vulnerable youth.

The growth in program enrollment demonstrates the state's commitment to supporting educational opportunities for young people with foster care experience. Eligible students typically include those who were in state custody on their 14th birthday, or youth who were adopted or placed in guardianship from state custody at any age.

State officials have emphasized the importance of connecting more eligible youth with the program to maximize educational attainment and long-term economic stability in Kentucky's foster care population.