Independent Students
Quick overview
Who this is for: We support students who are considered independent in the college system—those navigating higher education without family or parental support. This can include students with experience in foster care, emancipation, legal guardianship, military service, currently or formerly unhoused, or those with dependents of their own.
What we offer: Mentorship, academic and personal guidance, financial assistance, and leadership development opportunities.
Connect with us
Location: Bay Tree Campus Store, 2nd Floor
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Email: starrs@ucsc.edu
Phone: (831) 459-5899
Instagram: @ucsc_resilientscholars
Appointments: Schedule via Slug Success
Welcome, independent students!
Independent students bring resilience, determination, and unique perspectives to UC Santa Cruz. Whether you’re just getting started or preparing to graduate, this page connects you with programs, mentorship, and resources that support your path forward. Support for independent students is part of the Resilient Scholar Programs (RSP).
What does “independent student” mean?
In financial aid terms, an “independent student” is someone who isn’t required to provide parental information on the FAFSA or CADAA. This can include students who are 24 or older, married, a veteran or active-duty service member, a parent or legal guardian, an emancipated minor, or someone with experience in foster care or housing instability.
Programs and support
Housing and basic needs support
Independent students may face housing insecurity, especially during academic breaks and transitional periods. The Resilient Scholars Program offers financial support so you can stay focused on your goals without worrying about where you’ll stay.
We can help with:
- Early move-in before fall quarter
- Emergency housing during summer and winter breaks
- Other basic needs, including help with:
- Textbooks and technology
- Food access
- Health care co-pays
- Clearing enrollment holds
To request support, fill out the Resilient Scholars Basic Needs Form.
Chancellor’s Undergraduate Internship Program (CUIP)
Earn a $4,000 or $8,000 scholarship while developing a leadership project with direct support from the Underground Scholars Program Coordinator. Includes a leadership course that fulfills your PR-S general education requirement.
Community Development Internship Program (CDIP)
Gain practical experience with local organizations and build your professional network. This program offers mentorship, real-world learning, and work-study funding to support your growth.
Additional resources for independent students
The Smith Society at UC Santa Cruz
The Smith Society supports students who have faced major life challenges such as foster care, homelessness, or being a ward of the court. Many Smith Scholars are also system-impacted. The program provides mentorship, community, and resources to help students succeed.
Slug Support
Slug Support helps students facing unexpected crises or barriers. Independent students are encouraged to reach out for help navigating emergency funding, housing challenges, and more.
To get started, fill out the Slug Support Intake Form.
Prospective and incoming students
If you’re planning to attend UCSC and identify with the foster care or child welfare system experience, we’d love to hear from you. Fill out the Resilient Scholar Programs Interest Form, and we’ll follow up with resources, answers to your questions, and ways to connect.
Connect with our team
The staff behind the Resilient Scholar Programs are deeply committed to supporting independent students navigating higher education on their own. Whether you need help accessing financial aid as an independent student, managing school while supporting yourself, connecting with resources and community, or just want someone to talk to who understands the challenges of being self-reliant while pursuing your education, we’re here for you. Our approach is student-centered, community-driven, and grounded in the belief that higher education can be transformative.
Reach out anytime—we’d love to connect.
Email: starrs@ucsc.edu
Our mission
At the Resilient Scholar Programs you will find community support to guide you through your personal, professional and academic paths at UC Santa Cruz. We aim to provide holistic support that centers your personal goals and values while navigating the University. Our caring staff and peer leaders will guide you through your transition to the University and throughout your academic journey by offering a variety of intentional resources, services, and one on one mentoring and general counseling.