Funding for a master’s degree, doctorate degree, or specialized training
Education
Pursuing a master’s, doctorate, or specialized training? As a former Orange County dependent, you can receive up to $10,000 in scholarship funds – sent directly to you. Even if you’re earning a second bachelor’s degree, this funding can help support your next steps.
Fund Your Future
The Advanced Studies Fund provides flexible financial support to help you succeed in your post-graduate journey. Use your funds for tuition, books, supplies, or living expenses—giving you the flexibility to focus on your goals. Plus, as a scholarship recipient, you’ll connect with fellow students, alumni, donors, and our team for support throughout your education.
TUITION SUPPORT
Pay for tuition or program costs
SCHOOL ESSENTIALS
Cover books, supplies, and other academic expenses
LIVING EXPENSES
Use funds for rent, bills, and daily necessities
GROCERIES & FOOD
Get support for meals and everyday essentials
HEALTH &
WELLNESS CARE
Education on preventive health, a public health nurse available weekly, and guidance on making informed wellness choices
MENTAL HEALTH &
SUBSTANCE USE SUPPORT
Free onsite therapy, recovery groups, and mental health resources to help navigate challenges
SAFETY CRISIS
SUPPORT
Personalized safety planning, connections to legal aid, and crisis response services
PARENTING &
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH
Support for young parents, pregnancy care, STI prevention, and access to essential parenting resources
This Is Rising Tide
What Will You Receive from Rising Tide?
If your application is approved, we’ll help you move into a safe, affordable apartment owned by Orangewood Foundation. We’ll also help you cover bills while you look for a job.
If your application is approved, we’ll help you move into a safe, affordable apartment owned by Orangewood Foundation. We’ll also help you cover bills while you look for a job.
Safe Apartments from Orangewood Partners
We offer shared living spaces in two apartment complexes: Flanders Pointe and Orange Tree.
Move-In Costs & Basic Furnishings Covered
We can help cover a month of utility bills and get you set up with pots, pans, and basic furnishings.
One-on-One Employment Support
We’ll work with you to help build your interview skills so you can find a job and start earning income.
Continued Support from Orangewood Programs
We’ll connect you with other programs from the Orangewood Foundation so you’ll get all the support you need.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Be a former OC dependent OR be actively participating in an Orangewood program
- Be enrolled in an accredited university
Application Deadline May 1st 2026
Ready to get started? Reach out today!
Reach out to us by email or begin your application today—we’re excited to support you on your journey! After submitting your application, you’ll complete a panelist interview. We’ll let you know if your application is approved, or we will refer you to other resources.
Here’s How We Supported Young People
$117k
awarded to support young people pursuing advanced degrees and specialized training.
20
students received an Advanced Studies Fund scholarship to further their education
54
young people used our housing programs — 11 were survivors of human trafficking
ASF Community
Want to Help? Become a Partner.
We need support from community leaders who are passionate about helping young people start their path to independence. Lead a workshop, provide apartment space, or help cover a utility bill — however you can support, we’re excited to work with you!
Read Their Stories & Inspire a Better Future
“
Loren was in a group home when she learned about Orangewood Foundation. She utilized multiple programs, including a scholarship that allowed her to earn her Bachelor’s degree. She then went on to further her education and become a registered nurse.
Loren • Advanced Studies Scholarship Recipient
“
It started with a dream. Kim graduated from U.C. Irvine with her B.A. in Social Science, but her dream didn’t stop there. She was on a mission to pursue a master’s degree. Studies show that less than 1% of former foster youth will receive a master’s degree. Due to her hard work and determination, Kim was accepted into Harvard University. Kim came to Orangewood with a vision of a scholarship program that would help her and other students with their dreams. A group of innovators made her dream a reality by creating the Advanced Studies Fund.
Kim • First Advanced Studies Scholarship Recipient
See More Orangewood Programs
ORANGEWOOD RESOURCE CENTER
Drop In for Daily Resources & One-on-One Support
BASIC NEEDS & SUPPORT
GRANTS
Funding to help pay for extracurricular activities, transportation, and more
BASIC NEEDS & SUPPORT
Support Our Mission
Donate today to help a young person start building their future.
Resources For Young People
Need support? See which of our programs may be right for you.
