Pitt Horizon Scholars

Broadening Horizons while Empowering Youth!

Pitt Horizon Scholars logoThe Pitt Horizon Scholars program is an initiative designed to provide comprehensive support to youth and young adults who have experienced the child welfare system, guiding them to and through their educational journey at Pitt.

This collaborative effort is led by the Educational Outreach Center and the Office of the Provost, in conjunction with the School of Public Health, School of Social Work, and Office of Admissions and Financial Aid.

This campus support program aims to tackle the distinctive challenges faced by Horizon Scholars that impede persistence, retention, and graduation.

Program Eligibility

  • Be a Pennsylvania resident
  • Be identified as a youth who has experienced foster care at age 16 or older or, after attaining 16 years of age, exited foster care to adoption or permanent legal custodianship (PLC)
  • Be enrolled at the University of Pittsburgh, at least half time
  • graduating Pitt students at commencement ceremonyDemonstrate financial need for the PA Chafee Education and Training Grant (as determined by the postsecondary institution)
  • File a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)
  • Read more about the PA Fostering Independence Tuition Waiver Program and additional eligibility requirements.

Partners & Resources

Horizon Scholars Endowed Student Resource Fund

Help us to raise awareness of the Horizon Scholars by supporting the program in three ways.

  1. Sign up to be a mentor/support team member;
  2. Donate to the Horizon Scholars Student Resource Fund; or
  3. Spread the word!

The Opportunity Gap

This infographic from the Field Center for Children's Policy, Practice & Research conveys data and a call to action regarding higher education and youth with foster care experience. (Click image to enlarge.)

The Opportunity Gap infographic
Used with permission of the Field Center for Children's Policy, Practice & Research.
Access text version of infographic.