Child Welfare Stipend

The Cal IV-E budget for the 2026–27 academic year was fully reinstated, allowing us to fund new students entering the stipend programs (MSW Full-Time, MSW Part-Time, and BASW).

The Cal IV-E budget for the 2027–28 academic year is currently under review and remains contingent upon state and federal funding decisions for the upcoming academic year.

We are optimistic that funding will continue next year to support currently enrolled stipend students. In the meantime, we are accepting Cal IV-E applications for the MSW Full-Time, MSW Part-Time, and BASW programs. We will update this page as soon as the funding decision is firm and finalized in Spring 2027.

The California Title IV-E Education Program identifies and supports the brightest and most qualified students who commit to serving in public child welfare.

Through a competitive process, social work BASW and MSW students committed to careers in public child welfare may apply for education support in the form of stipends or educational reimbursements.  Upon graduation, conditions of the support are satisfied after a successful employment period within a California public child welfare agency.

Selection Priority

• Current staff members of county public social services agencies, Health and Human Services (HHSA), and employees of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
• Applicants who reflect the diverse client populations currently served by public child welfare in California;
• Specific attention to indigenous students committed to tribal and other indigenous organizations serving child welfare involved families;
• Other qualified individuals with demonstrated experience and commitment to careers providing high-quality, culturally responsive practice in public child welfare services.