Frequently Asked Questions
What is TRIO Achievers?
TRIO Achievers is a federally funded program, which is designed to increase the retention and graduation rates of first-generation and low-income students, as well as students with a disability. TRIO Achievers (also known as Student Support Services nationally) at Cal Poly is funded at $344,414 annually by the U.S. Department of Education and set up to serve approximately 258 students.
Why should I become an TRIO Achievers member?
TRIO Achievers is a great place to start your journey at Cal Poly, because of the dedicated professional and student staff who invest in your academic, financial, social and cultural enrichment. The program can help you build on your strengths and address your areas of concern. By becoming a participant, you will gain access to services and opportunities not available to other students on campus.
How do I apply for the program?
Interested students may complete an online application on our website. See the Eligibility and Application page for requirements. If there are available slots, eligible students will be contacted to alert them of their eligibility. Then, from the applications, TRIO Staff will reach out to accepted students.
What support services are provided?
For additional information regarding these services please visit our services page.
- Academic Advising
- Personal Advising
- Graduate and Professional Advising
- Tutoring
- LINKS Peer Mentor Program
- Financial Literacy
- Workshops
- Cultural Enrichment Activities/Field Trips
- First-Year Seminar
- TRIO Living Learning Community
Am I eligible for TRIO Achievers?
To qualify for TRIO Achievers, a student must be a U.S. citizen, or national, or a recipient of federal financial aid. In addition, students must be first-generation, and/ or low-income and/ or have a documented disability.
- Note: A first-generation student is defined as any student whose parents did not graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
Do I need to be a first-year freshman to apply?
We accept applications from sophomores, juniors and seniors as well as transfer students.
How long will I remain in TRIO Achievers?
As long as you are an undergraduate at Cal Poly.
What is expected of me as a member of TRIO Achievers?
Once you have been accepted into the program, you must meet with a TRIO staff member once per term during the academic year to discuss your academic progress, educational goals, career objectives, and any other concerns you may have. Students are encouraged to meet beyond the required amount to foster a deeper connection.
Is there any grant aid available through TRIO Achievers?
Yes. Small amounts of grant aid are awarded to Pell-eligible first-time program participants during the academic year. An official call for grant aid will be sent out to eligible program participants. Additionally, we email our students weekly updates that feature additional scholarship opportunities and more.
What does TRiO mean?
TRiO refers to a series of programs, funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, created to assist disadvantaged Americans in overcoming class, social and cultural barriers to higher education. The term “TRiO” was coined to represent the initial three programs; Upward Bound, Talent Search, and Student Support Services.
Whom do I contact if I have additional questions?
Inquiries can be made to the TRIO Achievers office via email at trioachievers@calpoly.edu. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am-5:00 pm.