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Great Expectations

Great Expectations, Services for Youth in Foster Care, helps Virginia’s current and former foster youth gain access to community college education and transition successfully from higher education to a self-sustaining career.

GE logo

This program focuses on the value of a college education as the best way to prepare for a career pathway and achieve independence. 

Great Expectations works with enrolled students to ensure their success in community college and beyond, connecting them to community resources, scholarship opportunities and other support. Students can pursue an associate degree, get workforce training and/or transfer to a four-year college—often for free!

Services

What Services Are Available?

  • assistance with choosing an academic program
  • instruction and support throughout the financial aid process
  • assistance with accessing financial aid and scholarship opportunities
  • access to college support services
  • referrals to community resources
  • referrals for tutorial services
  • access to an academic advisor who will help guide students through their academic journey
  • monitoring of academic progress
  • life skills workshops
  • participation in college trips and events
  • mentorship program with NOVA faculty/staff
Eligibility

Who is Eligible?

  • Individuals between the ages of 17-24 years old who are affiliated with the Virginia Foster Care System.
  • Youth adopted from the Virginia Foster Care System at the age of 13.
  • A special needs person adopted at the time he or she received their high school diploma or GED.
  • Someone enrolled in and maintains at least half-time enrollment (with a minimum of six credits) in an eligible academic program of at least one academic year in length.
Funding

Where Can I Get Money for College?

Follow these helpful links to learn more about funds available:

Apply to NOVA

How Do I Enroll at NOVA?

Click here to submit and application for admission.

To receive assistance for the cost of textbooks, students need to submit proof of enrollment from the Department of Social Services. This proof must be separate from payment for classes.

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