Advancing Futures Fund

The Advancing Futures Fund provides one-time financial assistance to Missouri students pursuing short-term credentials in high-demand career fields, as defined by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD). Eligible students must attend a Missouri career center, community college, or technical college. Advancing Futures is a critical need fund that supports students who face a barrier that could prevent them from continuing or completing their education. The fund helps cover a serious financial out-of-pocket expense.

This grant fund helps students with documented financial need cover specific out-of-pocket costs — not including tuition or fees — that could otherwise prevent completion of a certificate or credential program.
Funds are intended to support direct and indirect program-related costs. Examples include:
o Tools, equipment, uniforms, and supplies
o Books, software, and training materials
o Transportation (e.g. practicum or clinical travel)
o Technology needs such as internet access
o Childcare support or living costs directly tied to program completion
o Certification/licensure exam fees or testing costs

Eligible students must:
• Be a Missouri resident with a high school diploma, GED or equivalent, who has not yet completed an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
• Have a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 12,000 or less on the FAFSA or Federal Student Aid Estimator.
• Attend an eligible Missouri career center, community college, or technical college.
• Be enrolled part-time or full-time in a short-term credential program (e.g. certificate, certification, apprenticeship or special training required for licensure) in a high-demand field as defined by MDHEWD for their programming.

If this award is used for educational expenses that are not required for your academic program, such as housing, meals or transportation, your scholarship may be considered taxable income. You should consult your tax advisor about your specific situation.
This program is administered by the Financial Aid Office in accordance with program rules and applicable laws. Grants are the decision of the MSLF and the participating school.
Missouri Scholarship & Loan Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, creed, national origin, gender, age, color, sexual orientation, veteran status, physical or mental disability.

Questions? Contact info@moslf.org or 636.787.2677.