TRIO Programs (Upward Bound / Talent Search)

About This Program

TRIO Programs are a set of eight federally funded college access and retention programs designed to help low-income students, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities reach and complete higher education. The three most widely recognized programs are Upward Bound, Talent Search, and Student Support Services, though the TRIO umbrella also includes McNair Scholars, GEAR UP, and others. Upward Bound provides tutoring, mentoring, college visit trips, SAT/ACT preparation, and summer college experience programs to high school students who have low income and no parent with a college degree. Research consistently shows Upward Bound increases college enrollment and completion rates, particularly for students who are first in their families to attend college. Talent Search identifies students in middle and high school who have potential for college success and provides early guidance on college planning, financial aid, and academic preparation. Student Support Services provides ongoing academic tutoring, advising, mentoring, and financial literacy education to TRIO-eligible students already enrolled in college, significantly improving retention and graduation rates. Not every school or community has TRIO programs — they are competitive federal grants awarded to institutions and organizations. To find TRIO programs near you, use the Department of Education's TRIO grantee locator at ed.gov/programs/trioupbound. Many TRIO programs are housed at community colleges, universities, and community organizations.

Eligibility Requirements

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