TRIO Student Programs

Students sitting in a classroom

What is TRIO?

TRIO refers to the three original federal programs – Student Support Services, Talent Search, and Upward Bound – funded under the Higher Education Act. The programs provide academic tutoring, personal counseling, mentoring, financial guidance, and other support necessary for educational access and retention. TRIO programs provide direct support services for students and relevant training for directors and staff. 

While student financial aid programs help students overcome financial barriers to higher education, TRIO programs help students overcome class, social, and cultural barriers to higher education. 

TRIO Programs at Iowa State