Refer a Student to TRiO SSS

UCCS faculty and staff play an important role in connecting students with the people, programs, and resources that can support their success.

If you know a student who may benefit from individualized academic support, mentoring, guidance, and connection to campus resources, we encourage you to refer them to TRiO Student Support Services (SSS).

You do not need to determine whether a student is eligible before making a referral. TRiO SSS staff will work directly with the student to determine eligibility and guide them through the application process.

Who May Be Eligible?

TRiO Student Support Services supports eligible UCCS undergraduate students as they work toward their academic, personal, and career goals.

A student may be eligible for TRiO SSS if they are at least one of the following:

  • A first-generation college student
  • From a low-income background
  • A student with a documented disability

Students may meet one or more of these criteria.

Refer students. We'll determine eligibility.

Faculty and staff are not responsible for determining whether a student meets TRiO SSS eligibility requirements. You do not need to ask students to disclose information about their family income, disability status, or other personal circumstances.

If you believe a student could benefit from TRiO, make the connection. Our staff will talk with the student, answer their questions, and determine whether they meet program eligibility requirements.

How TRiO SSS Supports Students

TRiO SSS is a supportive academic community committed to student success, persistence, and degree completion.

Students accepted into TRiO SSS have access to individualized support and opportunities designed to help them navigate college, build confidence and connections, and progress toward their goals.

Support includes:

Academic Coaching and Guidance

Individualized support to help students navigate college expectations, develop strategies for success, and make progress toward degree completion.

Advocacy and Personalized Support

One-on-one guidance and connections to campus resources based on each student's goals and needs.

Peer Mentoring

Opportunities for students to connect with peers, build community, and strengthen their sense of belonging at UCCS.

Tutoring and Academic Support

Connections to tutoring and other academic resources available to support student learning and success.

Career Exploration and Preparation

Guidance as students explore career options, prepare for professional opportunities, and connect their education with future goals.

Financial Aid and Financial Literacy Guidance

Support in understanding and connecting with the financial aid office and developing skills to make informed financial decisions.

Graduate and Professional School Preparation

Resources and guidance for students interested in continuing their education after completing their undergraduate degree.

When to Refer a Student

Students do not need to be struggling academically to benefit from TRiO SSS.

Consider referring a student who:

  • May benefit from additional academic guidance or individualized support
  • Is looking for ways to become more connected to the UCCS community
  • Could benefit from mentoring or tutoring resources
  • Is learning how to navigate university processes and resources
  • Has questions about financial aid or managing the financial aspects of college
  • Is exploring career opportunities or graduate and professional school
  • Has shared that they are a first-generation college student
  • Has expressed interest in additional support or resources

Not sure whether a student is eligible? That's OK. Refer them to us, and we'll help them explore their options.

What Happens After a You Refer a Student to the TRiO SSS Application?

1. The student submits an application.

Students who are interested in joining TRiO SSS must complete the TRiO Student Support Services application online. The application link is on our website.

2. The student meets with TRiO staff.

Eligible applicants participate in an interview with a member of the TRiO SSS team to learn more about the program and discuss their goals and support needs.

3. TRiO SSS determines eligibility and acceptance.

TRiO SSS staff review the student's application and eligibility information and determine final acceptance into the program.

A referral connects a student with TRiO. It does not determine eligibility or guarantee acceptance into the program.

Questions? Connect With Us.

Not sure whether TRiO is the right resource for a student? We're happy to help.

TRiO Student Support Services
Main Hall 316 & 318
triosss@uccs.edu