Trio Federal Grant Programs
TRIO programs are federally funded by the US Department of Education and designed to encourage enrollment in postsecondary or high school education programs. The various TRIO programs serve those who are first-generation-in-college, low income, veterans, or individuals with disabilities residing in Escambia or Santa Rosa county.
TRIO Programs include:
Educational Talent Search (ETS)
Designed to serve students from disadvantaged backgrounds in grades 6-12 to increase high school completion rates and encourage enrollment in any accredited postsecondary institution in the country.
Services include but are not limited to: college tours, academic tutoring, career exploration; ACT/SAT test preparation; FAFSA submission; college application and admissions assistance; and student and family workshops.
Eligibility requirements include: maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA; first-generation-in-college; meet income levels established by the grant; desire to pursue a postsecondary education; and attend a participating middle or high school in the Escambia or Santa Rosa County Public School System. Please contact ETS at (850) 484-1620 for additional details.
Educational Opportunity Center (EOC)
Designed to serve individuals who want to enroll in college at any accredited postsecondary institution in the country, whether it is enrolling for the first time or returning to college if they have stopped out for at least one term (Fall or Spring).
Services include but are not limited to: completing Admissions application; filing for financial aid (PELL Grant) or researching other financial aid options; and exploring educational and career options.
Eligibility requirements include: first-generation-in-college; meet income levels established by the grant; earned high school diploma or GED; and resident of Escambia or Santa Rosa county. Please contact EOC at (850) 484-1961 for additional details.
Student Support Services (SSS)
Designed to increase retention, graduation, and transfer rates of participants of students at Pensacola State College.
Services include but are not limited to: tutoring, academic advising; college visits; cultural events; financial literacy; and peer mentoring.
Eligibility requirements include: first-generation-in-college or low income or students with disabilities; and must have an academic need (e.g., tested into one or more developmental education classes). Please contact SSS at (850) 484-2028 for additional details.
Veteran’s Upward Bound
Designed to serve as a pre-college program for veterans and provides free academic preparation for veterans returning to school.
Services include but are not limited to: free preparatory classes and workshops; support services; campus tours; cultural events; and referrals.
Eligibility requires include: veteran of US Armed Forces; first-generation-in-college; and meets income levels established by the grant. Please contact VUB at (850) 484-2068 for additional details.