CAFYES/NextUP

How to Apply for the NextUp Program at East Los Angeles College (ELAC)

Welcome to the NextUp/CAFYES program! Below is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you apply and begin receiving the support and services offered through NextUp.

Step 1: Enroll at East Los Angeles College (ELAC)

If you are not currently an ELAC student, follow these steps to enroll:

1. Complete the Online Application for Admission:

   • Visit the ELAC Admissions page.
   • Select the Credit Application and create an OpenCCC account if you don’t already have one.
   • Fill out the application with the requested information and submit it.

2. Receive Your Student ID Number:

   • After submitting your application, you will receive an email with your Student ID number. Save this number, as you will need it throughout your application process.

3. Need Help?

   • If you encounter difficulties, visit the NextUp office in E1-210 for assistance with the admissions process.

Step 2: Contact a NextUp/CAFYES Staff Member

Once you have successfully enrolled, contact the NextUp/CAFYES office to confirm your eligibility for services.

• Phone: Call EOPS at (323) 415-5088 and ask to speak with a NextUp/CAFYES staff member.
• In Person: Visit the NextUp office in E1-210 during office hours:
  • Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM.

Step 3: Verify Your Status as a Foster Youth

To qualify for the NextUp/CAFYES program, you must verify that you were in foster care on or after your 13th birthday.

• Ward of the Court (WOC) Verification:
  • Request Online:
    Visit the Foster Youth Help Verification Request Form page to request your WOC verification.
  • Call for Assistance:
    • Contact the Foster Care Ombudsman’s Office at 1 (877) 846-1602.
    • Or call the Foster Care Support Services Bureau at 1 (916) 651-7465.
  • Help from NextUp Staff:
    If you are unable to obtain your WOC letter on your own, the NextUp staff can assist you in requesting one with your permission.

Step 4: Meet the Eligibility Criteria

To apply for NextUp, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Foster Care Status:

   • You must have been in foster care on or after your 13th birthday.

2. Age Requirement:

   • You must be 25 years old or younger as of July 1 of the academic year in which you apply.

3. Enrollment Requirement:

   • Enroll in at least 0.5 college credit units or more (with plans to work toward a minimum of 9 units).

4. Verification Documents:

   • Provide a Ward of the Court (WOC) verification letter to confirm your foster youth status.

Step 5: Complete the NextUp/EOPS Application

1. Fill Out the EOPS Application:

   • The EOPS application includes enrollment in the NextUp program. Obtain this packet from the NextUp office or via email nextup@elac.edu

2. Include Required Documents:

   • Attach your Ward of the Court verification letter to your application.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

1. Email Submission:

   • Send your completed EOPS/NextUp application and WOC verification to nextup@elac.edu

2. In-Person Submission:

   • Deliver your documents to the NextUp Office, located in E1-210, during office hours:
     • Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM.

Additional Assistance

If you have any questions or need help at any stage of the process, the NextUp/CAFYES team is here to support you. Don’t hesitate to reach out via phone or in person for guidance.

Phone: (323) 415-5088
Office Location: E1-210
Email: nextup@elac.edu

Welcome to ELAC and the NextUp/CAFYES family! We look forward to supporting you in your academic journey.