Scholarships for current or former foster children

(1) As used in this section: (a) “Former foster child” has the meaning given that term in ORS 350.300. (b) “Institution of higher education” means a public university listed in ORS 352.002, the Oregon Health and Science University, a community college operated under ORS chapter 341 or an Oregon-based, regionally accredited independent institution. (2) In addition to any other scholarships provided by law, the Higher Education Coordinating Commission shall award scholarships to any individual applying for enrollment or enrolled in an institution of higher education who is a current foster child or former foster child. (3) Scholarships awarded under this section shall be in an amount to be determined by the commission based on the funds that are made available for the awarding year. (4) If a student who is a current foster child or former foster child continues to remain enrolled in a public university listed in ORS 352.002, a community college or an Oregon-based, regionally accredited independent institution, the student is entitled to apply for renewal of the scholarship until the student has received the equivalent of four years of undergraduate education. (5) The Director of the Office of Student Access and Completion may require proof that a student is a current foster child or former foster child.