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Federal TRIO Programs · First-Generation Students
TRiO PROGRAMS
Federally funded programs designed to help first-generation, low-income, and disabled students access, persist in, and complete higher education.
Two Programs
WHAT WE OFFER
Student Support Services (SSS)
Provides academic support, personal counseling, career exploration, tutoring, financial aid advising, and cultural enrichment for qualifying students. The goal: help you persist, transfer, or graduate.
Eligibility
- ›First-generation college student (neither parent holds a bachelor's degree)
- ›Income-eligible per federal guidelines
- ›OR documented disability
Services Include
Educational Talent Search
Serves middle and high school students in the greater Birmingham area who have the potential for postsecondary education. Prepares students for college entry through test prep, campus visits, and financial aid coaching.
Eligibility
- ›6th–12th grade students from target schools
- ›First-generation college student and/or income-eligible
- ›Enrolled in a target school in the service area
Services Include
Am I Eligible?
QUALIFY IF YOU ARE...
Are you a first-generation college student?
If neither of your parents has a four-year college degree, you qualify as first-generation.
Do you meet income guidelines?
Federal income limits apply. Household income thresholds vary by family size. Ask TRiO to check your eligibility — it's free and confidential.
Do you have a documented disability?
Students with physical, learning, or mental health disabilities may qualify regardless of income or first-gen status.
Not sure if you qualify? Contact the TRiO office — the intake process is free and we welcome all inquiries.
Getting Started
HOW TO JOIN TRiO
Contact TRiO
Call or visit the TRiO office on the Birmingham Campus. A counselor will walk you through the eligibility check.
Complete an Application
Fill out the TRiO SSS intake application. You'll need to provide income documentation and confirm first-generation status.
Meet Your Counselor
Once accepted, you're matched with a dedicated TRiO counselor who will support you throughout your time at Lawson State.
Access Services
Attend advising sessions, workshops, tutoring, and cultural events — all free and designed around your success.
TRiO Student Support Services
205.929.6454 · trio@lawsonstate.edu · Birmingham Campus
READY TO BEGIN?
Your first step toward a new career, a degree, or a better future starts here.