To be eligible for the award, a student must:

◊ Be under age 26, and:

• At least 14 years old and currently in the custody (foster care) of the Department of Services for Children, Youth & Their Families (DSCYF) ; or
• Exited DSCYF custody to adoption or guardianship at the age of 16 years or older; or
• Aged out of foster care in Delaware at age 18.

◊ Complete a current-year Delaware Aspire529 application prior to the deadline. (July 8, 2024)

◊ Be a Delaware resident.

◊ Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or approved refugee.

◊ Be an undergraduate student.

◊ Show proof of enrollment or attendance at an institution of higher learning or trade school, AND if already attending, must be making satisfactory academic or vocational progress toward completion of that program. Proof of enrollment or attendance can be requested through your school’s registrar or administrative offices.

Questions? Send email to: Treasury_Aspire529@delaware.gov

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Program Limits

Annual awards are available on a first-come, first-served basis of completed applications.

Only 20 awards will be issued in any calendar year.

Applicants are eligible for repeated awards through the completion of their degree or certificate.

The Plans Management Board has the authority to revise the program limits as it deems appropriate.

An award may be used for:

• Books and supplies
• Materials required for skills training (e.g., steel-toed boots, safety equipment, tools, etc.)
• Transportation costs (e.g., car payment, car insurance, car repair, fuel, public transportation, parking, etc.)
• Child care

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The application closed July 8, 2024. 

Winners will be notified by September 1, 2024. 

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Award Conditions

The award will be paid to the recipient’s Independent Living Case Manager or other approved DSCYF social worker, guardian, or in cases where neither is present – directly to the recipient under a process approved by the Office of the State Treasurer.

This award will be given irrespective of other sources of aid for which a student may be eligible. Other aid will not reduce or cancel this award.

The award recipient will be required to complete a tailored financial literacy skills program provided by $tand By Me, a state-funded partnership between Delaware Health and Social Services and United Way.

The student is responsible for notifying the Office of the State Treasurer of any changes of address or college or trade school choice.

The student is responsible for completing a short survey provided by the office of the State Treasurer by August 31, 2024.

Future awards are subject to available and approved funding.