The U.S. Department of Education funds the program to retain, graduate and transfer students in higher education. Participant students are low-income, individuals with disabilities and first generation college students. Students must be seeking to earn a degree, have a need for academic support, and be a U.S. citizen.

Students who receive SSS services must meet certain eligibility criteria by state law. Students must be seeking to earn a degree, have need to academic support, and be a U.S. citizen.

”Low-income individual”
an individual whose family’s income
did not exceed 150 percent of the
poverty level in the previous year

”First-generation college student”
neither parent received a bachelor’s
degree.

”Physically disabled”
person who, because of a physical
disability, needs specifically designed
instructional materials or programs,
modifies physical facilities, or related
services in order to participate fully in
the experience and opportunities
offered post-secondary educational
institutions.