- Program Introductions are held at FRC on a monthly basis.
- This overview covers information on the countries open for adoption, the specific requirements of each country, availability of children, the process itself – and will answer many of your questions, from “How long will it take?” to “What will it cost?”
- Click here to register for a Program Intro or call the office at 773-334-2300.
Choose Which Programs to Pursue
- China Program .
- International Options For families who wish to pursue independent adoption from other countries
Submit an Application
Complete FRC’s Application Form and send it to FRC with the $4,100 Application, Evaluation and Orientation Fee. (See Fee Schedule for more information)
Participate in an Initial Assessment Interview (IAI)
- Upon receiving your application, a member of FRC’s adoption staff will telephone you to schedule an Initial Assessment Interview (IAI). This interview is conducted at FRC’s offices during regular working hours, and may last up to three hours.
- Most interviews are completed in one session, but additional interviews may be requested.
Complete DCFS Foster Family Home Licensing Forms (click here for sample forms)
- At the IAI you will begin the DCFS Foster Family Home Licensing process. This license is required for all domestic adoptions in the State of Illinois, and involves medical exams, fingerprinting, and background checks.
- Licenses are valid for 4 years.
Participate in a Home Study Interview
- Upon completion of the licensing paperwork, including medical examinations fingerprinting and background checks, you will be assigned a Home Study Worker. This person will contact you to schedule a home study interview. The home study is an interview/education session that is conducted in your home, where basic evaluations are done (is the home safe, of adequate size, etc.)
- Home studies are generally scheduled during regular working hours, and may last up to 8 hours. Most home studies are conducted in one session, but additional interviews may be necessary.
Participate in Specialized Training
- DCFS and FRC require 10 hours of education prior to issuing a license and placing a child in your home. Training must be adoption-specific and cover grief, loss, and attachment issues in adoptive parenting; potential medical and developmental issues associated with international adoption; and parenting an adopted child. FRC will assist you in choosing the topics and classes that are most relevant and helpful for you.
- In order to maintain the license over 4 years, a total of 16 hours of training is required.
Prepare your Dossier
- Gather the documents required by the country you have chosen.
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