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! 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 educaiton enrollment and attainment, there are some key differences in terms of the programs' specific services and student commitment. Both the similarities and differences of the two programs are outlined on TRIO Programs.

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

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 apply to JMU.

No, students only need to apply to the program one time in order to remain in the program 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, such as their status as potential first-generation students. However, if spots are not currently available, students will be placed on a waitlist and notified once a spot becomes opens.

Two-thirds of TRIO participants must be determined to be both first generation and low income (as defined by the U.S. Department of Education). One-third of TRIO participants do not have to be first generation or low income, so all students are encouraged to appy!

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 citizenship/residency status is NOT requested in the application process.

Yes, adults who are currently enrolled or seeking to enroll in postsecondary education may apply to Educational Talent Search to receive specific services for adults. 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 during high school or apply to join Upward Bound.

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 each one possesses 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.

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

That's 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. Via email, applicants who are determined as eligible are then sent information regarding their status and 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 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! While most participants attend many activities throughout the school year, they are only required to attend at least two activities each school year.