Eligible students (i.e., newly admitted UC Berkeley transfers that meet the criteria outlined below) are contacted via email and asked to complete an online application. If you meet the criteria below and have committed to UC Berkeley as a new transfer student, make sure to check you email inbox for the application invite. If you feel you meet the criteria below, but did not receive an invitation, you can contact us at ucbsss@berkeley.edu.
Eligibility Requirements for Student Support Services Program Participants
- Must meet federal low-income level.
- Must be a first-generation college student. The U.S. Department of Education defines first-generation college student as a student who, prior to age 18, did not reside with or receive primary support from, a parent who has received a B.A. degree or its equivalent.
- Must be either a United States citizen or permanent resident (or otherwise eligible for Federal Financial Aid).
Federal TRIO Programs Current-Year Low-Income Levels
| Size of Family Unit | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Outlying Jurisdictions | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,870 | $27,315 | $25,155 |
| 2 | $29,580 | $36,960 | $34,020 |
| 3 | $37,290 | $46,605 | $42,885 |
| 4 | $45,000 | $56,250 | $51,750 |
| 5 | $52,710 | $65,895 | $60,615 |
| 6 | $60,420 | $75,540 | $69,480 |
| 7 | $68,130 | $85,185 | $78,345 |
| 8 | $75,840 | $94,830 | $87,210 |
For family units with more than eight members, add the following amount for each additional family member: $7,710 for the 48 contiguous states, the District of Columbia and outlying jurisdictions; $9,645 for Alaska; and $8,865 for Hawaii.
The term "low-income individual" means an individual whose family's taxable income for the preceding year did not exceed 150 percent of the poverty level amount.
The figures shown under family income represent amounts equal to 150 percent of the family income levels established by the Census Bureau for determining poverty status. The poverty guidelines were published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in the Federal Register on January 19, 2023 and are effective as of January 19, 2023.
