The three original TRIO educational assistance programs were created as part of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. They included Upward Bound, Talent Search and Student Support Services. By the late 1960's, the term "TRIO" was coined to describe these three federal programs.

Today, TRIO Programs continue to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO now includes eight programs targeted to serve low-income individuals, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities. These programs assist participants in passing through the academic pipeline, from middle school to post baccalaureate programs.

TRIO Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) is 100% federally funded under the U.S. Department of Education. Our program is administered by the Center for Educational Opportunity Programs (CEOP) at the University of Kansas, where the EOC provides assistance with college or other postsecondary admissions to low-income and potential first-generation college students. 

High school seniors, first time college enrollees and adults returning to an educational program after a break are encouraged to apply. We are here to help you complete the post-secondary educational program of your choice whether it's vocational, technical, community college, or university level education.

Mission Statement

The mission of CEOP is to empower historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students to advance their achievement in higher education. CEOP strives to increase academic success, college access and graduation rates by using research-driven strategies to assist individuals in overcoming financial, academic, social and cultural barriers to higher education. Our mission complements the overall mission of the University of Kansas to educate leaders in a global community.

Visit the CEOP website or one of these program sites to learn more about the TRIO programs administered by the University of Kansas.

• Child Care Access Means Parents in School
• GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs)
• HEARTLAND COLLEGE ASSISTANCE MIGRANT PROGRAM
• STEP UP (Supporting Technology, Educators, and Parents for Upward Progress)
• TRIO Math and Science Center
• TRIO McNair Scholars Program
• TRIO SES & STEM
• TRIO Talent Search
• TRIO Upward Bound Program
• TRIO Veterans Upward Bound Program