Dawson Promise is a program aimed at helping youth aging out of the foster care system, unaccompanied youth, or homeless youth obtain a two-year education without debt. Through Dawson Promise, students are provided opportunities that may have previously seemed out of reach.

What will participation in Dawson Promise look like?

• DCC’s Financial Aid office helps students complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• A mentor will help students through the admissions and enrollment processes and introduce them to their academic advisor.
• Students will work one-on-one with their advisor to determine a course of study for their chosen program and will meet periodically to discuss progress.
• Students will be provided with year-round on-campus housing and may begin classes as soon as they graduate from high school.
• Students will be provided with various life skills training; such as, resume writing, personal finances and budgeting, interviewing skills, grocery shopping tips, and more.
• Students will be provided a community host family through the Adopt-a-Buc program. Host families assist students in their transition to the community.
• The Human Resources team will help students obtain on-campus employment.

Who is eligible to participate in Dawson Promise?

To be eligible to apply for the Dawson Promise program individuals must:

• Be a resident of Montana.
• Have graduated high school or obtained a GED within the past 2 years.
• Be an unaccompanied youth who meets one of the below categories:
  • Has aged-out of foster care
  • Is a homeless youth; as defined by HUD.

Individuals who do not meet all of the above requirements, yet have extenuating circumstances, may inquire with the Dawson Promise program coordinator to submit an appeal to be considered for eligibility.

How do students apply for Dawson Promise?

Eligible individuals who are interested in participating in the Dawson Promise program can apply by following the below steps.

1. Complete the Dawson Promise Application and Intake Form. Contact the Dawson Promise program coordinator for an application.
2. Complete a Request for Admission Application Fee Waiver.
3. Submit the Request with a completed Application for Admission.
4. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
5. Submit high school and/or previous college transcripts to the DCC Admissions Office (admissions@dawson.edu or PO Box 421, Glendive, MT 59330).

For More Information
Daneen Peterson
406-377-3061
dpeterson@dawson.edu

Download the Dawson Promise brochure

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