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Foster Youth 

Student Transition and Academic Retention Team (START) is a Foster Youth Success Initiative (FYSI) that helps current and former foster youth succeed at DVC. Financial resources are just one of the many benefits of joining START.

START financial services

  • One-on-one financial aid application help.
  • Faster financial aid processing.
  • Help applying for aid through the John Burton Foundation.
  • Scholarship referrals and letters of recommendation.

How to apply to START

  1. Complete the DVC Application.
  2. Complete START Program Application Form.
  3. Schedule an appointment with the START Program Coordinator. 
  4. Provide proof that you are/were in court ordered out-of-home care placement for at least one day between the ages of 13-18.

In preparation for your appointment with the START program coordinator, it is recommended that you bring the following documents:

  • Proof of court ordered out-of-home care placement.
  • Photo ID.

If you are not sure how to complete any of these steps, contact the START program coordinator for help.

What other services does START provide?

Visit START for more information on the program and services provided to eligible foster youth.

Contact START

Mercedes Lezama
mlezama@dvc.edu
925-969-2203

All financial aid students are required to check their DVC student email account through InSite on a regular basis in order to receive notifications, file status updates, announcements, and further instructions from the Financial Aid Office. Follow the link for instructions on how to check your financial aid status through InSite.

Financial Aid school codes:

  • DVC FAFSA Federal School Code: 001191
  • DVC CA DREAM Act Application School Code: 00119100

Contact Financial Aid

Contact

Telephone: 925-969-2009

Email: financialaid@dvc.edu

Fax: 925-691-1132 

Office location: SSC building, first floor Pleasant Hill campus map

Office location

Admissions and Records, San Ramon campus map