University of Texas at Arlington
PAE-10: Affordability and Access Programs

The UT Arlington TRIO Pre-College Programs are designed to assist students in obtaining a college degree. We have 5 programs currently funded by the U.S. Department of Education: Educational Talent Search (One Grant): The goal of Talent Search is to increase the number of youth who complete high school and enroll in post-secondary education institutions of their choice. Projects provide tutorial services, career exploration, aptitude assessments, counseling, mentoring programs, workshops, and information on post-secondary institutions. (Since 2006) Upward Bound Programs (Two Grants): The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education. Upward Bound projects provide academic instruction in mathematics, laboratory sciences, composition, literature, and foreign languages. Tutoring, counseling, mentoring, cultural enrichment, and work-study programs are also supported. (Since 1982 and the second was funded in fall of 2007) Upward Bound Math and Science Programs (Two Grants): The goal of Upward Bound Math and Science is to help students recognize and develop their potential to excel in math and science and to encourage them to pursue post-secondary degrees in math and science. Services include: summer programs with intensive math and science training; year-round counseling and advisement; exposure to university faculty members who do research in mathematics and the sciences; computer training; and participant-conducted scientific research under the guidance of faculty members or graduate students, who are serving as mentors. (Since 1992 and the second was funded in the fall of 2007) In addition, there are 3 TRIO College Programs at UT Arlington. Student Support Services: The goal of SSS is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants and help students make the transition from one level of higher education to the next. Projects include: instruction in basic study skills, tutorial services; academic, financial, or personal counseling; assistance in securing admission and financial aid for enrollment in four-year institutions; assistance in securing admission and financial aid for enrollment in graduate and professional programs; guidance on career options; mentoring and special services for students with limited English proficiency; and college scholarships. (Since 1976) Ronald McNair Baccalaureate Achievement: The goal of the McNair program is to increase the attainment of Ph.D. degrees by students from underrepresented segments of society. Projects provide: academic counseling, financial aid assistance, mentoring, research opportunities, seminars, summer internships, and tutoring. Guidance for students seeking admission and financial aid for graduate programs is also supported. (Since 1990) Educational Opportunity Center: The goal of the EOC program is to increase the number of adult participants who enroll in postsecondary education institutions. Projects include: academic advise, personal counseling, and career workshops; information on postsecondary education opportunities and student financial assistance; help in completing applications for college admissions, testing, and financial aid; coordination with nearby postsecondary institutions; media activities designed to involve and acquaint the community with higher education opportunities;. Tutoring; and mentoring. (Since 1978) In general, ALL TRIO programs provide a variety of services for students at different stages in their academic career. These programs are designed to assist underrepresented student in gaining access to higher education. TRIO provides students with the knowledge and assistance to gain admission and financial aid at a college of their choice and guide them toward their chosen degree.