Federal TRIO programs are grant-funded initiatives aimed at serving and assisting low-income, first-generation students, and students with disabilities in their academic progression from middle school to college. They are called TRIO because there were originally three TRIO programs. Now, there are eight different TRIO programs at institutions all across the country and the Pacific islands! Two of these programs are available at JMU: Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search.

While both programs serve students for the main goal of postsecondary education enrollment and attainment, there are some key differences in terms of the programs' specific services and the level of student involvment. The similarities and differences of the two programs are outlined on the TRIO Programs homepage.

No, a student may not be in both Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search at the same time. However, a student may switch from one program to the other by completing the application process.

No, the programs are funded 100% by federal grants, which means that all activities and services (including food costs) are completely free for the student.

No, TRIO programs assist students to enroll in any institution of postsecondary education. While TRIO programs may assist students who wish to attend JMU, TRIO programs do not recruit students to attend JMU.

No, students only need to apply to the program one time in order to remain participants until they graduate high school.

Yes, Upward Bound serves a cohort of 60 students, and Educational Talent Search serves a cohort of 500 students. In addition, some spots are limited based on students' eligibility criteria. However, if spots are not available at the time of application, the applicants will be placed on a waitlist and notified as spots open.

Two-thirds of Educational Talent Search and Upward Bound participants must be determined to be both potential first-generation college students and low income (as defined by the U.S. Department of Education). The family income section of the application is used to determine low-income eligibility.

First and most importantly, we acknowledge that this information is sensitive and personal, so we keep all records confidential. Because TRIO programs are federally funded grants, the programs have eligibility requirements that are set by federal law, and therefore, the application process requires the student's citizenship/residency status. Any student that is a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or in the application for permanent residency as demonstrated through documentation by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is eligible to participate in a TRIO program. Parent/guardian status is NOT requested in the application process.

Yes, adults who are seeking to complete their high school education or earn a GED, or who are currently enrolled in or seeking to enroll in postsecondary education, may apply to Educational Talent Search to receive specific services. These services include career exploration, individual counseling, college preparation assistance, financial aid information, financial planning, college admission fee/entrance exam waivers, tutoring assistance, and academic advising. However, adults are not eligible to participate in Upward Bound.

Although Upward Bound serves only high school students, middle school students are encouraged to apply for Educational Talent Search! Once they finish their 8th grade year, they may remain in Educational Talent Search through high school or apply to join Upward Bound.

The enrollment process begins by completing the Upward Bound application. Once Upward Bound staff reviews the application, they will get in touch with the applicant regarding next steps. Once applicants are determined as eligible, Upward Bound staff will reach out to schedule an interview.

The Upward Bound program is specifically designed for students who are already planning to pursue a associate or bachelor's degree. Students who are undecided or who want to pursue a vocational certificate are encouraged to join Educational Talent Search!

Talent Search is a shortened version of the full name of the program: Educational Talent Search. The Talent Search program is dedicated to helping students better understand (Search) the specific skills and passions (Talent) that they possess and then discover the particular careers that fit those skills and passions.

The Educational Talent Search program is dedicated to helping students better understand the specific skills and passions (Talent) that each one possesses and then discover the particular careers that fit those skills and passions.

Although the Educational Talent Search program is primarily designed for students who are low-income and potential first-generation college students, the program is also open to students who are not low-income/first-generation but indicate an academic need for services. According to federal regulations, the Educational Talent Search program must maintain a cohort of two-thirds low-income AND first-generation students while the remaining one-third of students may be low-income only, first-generation only, or neither.

Yes! Educational Talent Search supports students to enroll in postsecondary education to attain a bachelor's degree, associate degree, or vocational certificate.

That is okay! Even if you are unsure, the Educational Talent Search program may help you explore your postsecondary and career options so that you may make the best decision to reach your personal and professional goals.

Educational Talent Search accepts students from 6th to 12th grade. However, students in 5th grade are also eligible to apply if they are at least 11 years old. High-school drop-outs and adults who are seeking to enroll/complete postsecondary education are also eligible to apply.

Educational Talent Search applications are reviewed in bulk every two weeks. Applicants who are determined as eligible are then sent information via email regarding their status as well as instructions to complete the second step of enrollment: the online family welcome orientation course. Upon completion of the online orientation course, participants are promptly notified of their official acceptance via email and letter.

Yes! The Educational Talent Search is extremely flexible with students' busy schedules. In fact, most activities happen within school hours.

No, participants are not required to attend all program activities. In fact, one of the main strengths of the program is its high flexibility! Although most participants attend several activities throughout the school year, they are only required to attend a minimum of two activities each year.