What is the M.J. Foster Promise Program?

Beginning July 1, 2022, the M.J. Foster Promise Program, a financial aid award given to eligible students, will be administered by the Board of Regents through the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance. The Promise Program provides financial assistance to eligible students who enroll in a qualified degree program. Eligible providers include public two-year colleges or universities and accredited proprietary schools licensed by the Board of Regents in Louisiana.

The goal is to help adult students earn an associate degree or a postsecondary education credential required for various in-demand, high-wage careers aligned with Louisiana’s workforce priorities.

The M.J. Foster Promise Program is available to eligible Louisiana residents, but student awards are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Financial support is provided to students who pursue degrees or certificates that align with jobs in high-growth sectors like construction, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.

Award Amounts

M.J. Foster Promise funds can be used over three years to cover tuition and fees. The maximum award amount is $3,200 per award year with a lifetime maximum benefit of $6,400.

Since Promise funds are a “last dollar” award, all applicants must complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for other sources of federal aid or demonstrate eligibility for federal aid. The funds would apply to any balances after all other forms of financial assistance are disbursed, so specific award amounts will vary for each student.

How to Find Out If You Qualify for the M.J. Foster Promise Program

The eligibility requirements include:

• Be 21 years or older.
• Meet a family income that does not exceed 300% of the Federal Poverty Level or be unemployed or underemployed for six months before receiving the grant.
  • Household of 1 = $38,640
  • Household of 2 = $52,260
  • Household of 3 = $65,880
  • Household of 4 = $79,500
  • Household of 5 = $93,120
• To view the most updated poverty thresholds and information for households of six or more, visit the U.S. ASPE webpage.
• Have earned a high school diploma or equivalent, or co-enroll in a qualified program of study and a program to earn a high school diploma.
• Have not previously earned an undergraduate degree at the associate level or above.
• Be a Louisiana resident and U.S. Citizen.
• Commit to reside in Louisiana one year after completion and perform 20 hours of community service, an internship, or a mentorship annually to maintain the award.

Qualifying Degrees for M.J. Foster Promise Funding

LSU Eunice, in partnership with LSU Online, offers one online program that qualifies for funding through the M.J. Foster Promise Program.

• Online Certificate of Technical Studies in Medical Billing and Coding

LSU Eunice will award M.J. Foster Promise funds to eligible students within these programs beginning in Fall 2022. Students may complete coursework 100% online. Enrolled students will have access to dedicated Enrollment and Student Success Coaches throughout their educational journey.

Next Steps

• Submit the FAFSA Application.
• Submit the Application for the M.J. Foster Promise Program at the LOSFA Student Hub.
• Apply for admission to one of the programs listed above.

For information related to our available programs, contact an Enrollment Coach. If you have additional questions about the M.J. Foster Promise Program, visit: https://mylosfa.la.gov/students-parents/scholarships-grants/mjfoster/