Welfare Info

D.C. Higher Education Financial Services

The Higher Education Financial Services' programs and services include, but are not limited to: The D.C. Adoption Scholarship (DCAS)- DCAS offers grant awards up to $10,000 per year for up to six years, with a lifetime maximum of $50,000, to Distr...

What is D.C. Higher Education Financial Services?

The Higher Education Financial Services' programs and services include, but are not limited to:

The D.C. Adoption Scholarship (DCAS)- DCAS offers grant awards up to $10,000 per year for up to six years, with a lifetime maximum of $50,000, to District of Columbia children adopted through D.C. Child and Family Services Agency and/or children who have lost one or both parents in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

The D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG)- DCTAG assists D.C. residents with out-of-state tuition by paying the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition up to $10,000 a year for 6 years, with a lifetime maximum of $50,000. Undergraduate students who choose to attend private colleges and universities in the D.C. metropolitan area, including any private Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are eligible to receive a grant for up to $2,500 a year, with a lifetime maximum of $12,500. The maximum annual award for two year community colleges is $2,500, with a lifetime maximum of $10,000.

All awards are processed on a first-come, first served basis and paid directly to the eligible institution.

Program Requirements

Eligibility criteria for all programs include:

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal U.S. residency.
  • A minimum of 12-month D.C. residency prior to the initial application.
  • Good academic standing as defined by the postsecondary institution.
  • No current default status with any federal student loans.
  • Enrollment in an Associate's or Bachelor's degree seeking program.
  • No older than 25 years of age at the time of application (first-time applicants, DCTAG only).

Application Details

What is the application process for D.C. Higher Education Financial Services?

You may apply for DCAS or DCTAG using the DC OneApp by visiting:
https://hefs.seo.dc.gov/appforms/seo_logon.aspx