Newly admitted transfer students that meet eligibility criteria will receive an invitation to apply to the program via email. If you believe you meet the criteria, but did not receive an invitation, please contact us at ucbsss@berkeley.edu.
Eligibility Requirements
Prospective TRIO SSS Scholars must meet all of the following criteria to participate in the program:
- You are an undergraduate transfer student enrolled at UC Berkeley, AND
- You are a first-generation college student, defined as a student whose parent(s) did not earn a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent,
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, AND
- Your family's taxable income or your taxable income (if you are an independent student) meets U.S. Department of Education Federal TRIO Programs low-income levels.
Federal TRIO Programs Current-Year Low-Income Levels
| Size of Family Unit | 48 Contiguous States, D.C., and Outlying Jurisdictions | Alaska | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $23,475 | $29,325 | $26,985 |
| 2 | $31,725 | $39,645 | $36,480 |
| 3 | $39,975 | $49,965 | $45,975 |
| 4 | $48,225 | $60,285 | $55,470 |
| 5 | $56,475 | $70,605 | $64,965 |
| 6 | $64,725 | $80,925 | $74,460 |
| 7 | $72,975 | $91,245 | $83,955 |
| 8 | $81,225 | $101,565 | $93,450 |
For family units with more than eight members, add the following amount for each additional family member: $5,500 for the 48 contiguous states, the District of Columbia and outlying jurisdictions; $6,880 for Alaska; and $6,330 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 2025 poverty guidelines are in effect as of January 15, 2025. Federal Register notice was published January 17, 2025.
