TRIO was established in 1965. It is committed to providing a quality educational opportunity for disadvantaged Americans regardless of race or ethnic background. There are a series of programs to help low-income and first-generation college students enter college, graduate, and move on to become an asset to America's economic and social life.
While student financial aid programs help students overcome financial barriers to higher education, TRIO programs help students overcome class, social, and cultural barriers to higher education. TRIO programs are established in over 1,200 colleges, universities, community colleges, and agencies nationwide. The series of programs include Upward Bound, Upward Bound Math Science, Educational Talent Search, Student Support Services, Ronald McNair, and Educational Opportunity Centers.