The UC Scholars Early Academic Outreach Program (hereinafter “UC Scholars EAOP”) was established in 2000. The program provides students with ongoing academic advising to ensure they successfully complete the required college preparatory courses (the “a–g” course pattern) for admission to the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU).  UC Scholars EAOP students and their families receive the necessary information, empowerment, and services to prepare for a postsecondary education, including assistance in the college application, college enrollment, and financial aid processes.

The UC Scholars EAOP Program serves first-generation, low-income students throughout the Central San Joaquin Valley.  These students are identified in consultation with school personnel at each UC Scholars EAOP partnership site using the following guidelines:

• Low-income, as defined by UC fee waiver guidelines or USDA free or reduced lunch income guidelines;
• First-generation college student (parents do not possess four-year degrees institutions within the United States);
• Highly willing to commit time and effort to studies; and
• Demonstrate potential to perform well in high school college-preparatory courses.

            In addition to the criteria, the UC Scholars EAOP has expanded eligibility benchmarks by grade-level.

            Since 2000, the UC Scholars EAOP has provided student and parent-centered services to forty-six (46) high schools and middle schools in the counties of Merced, Madera, Fresno, Tulare, Kings, Stanislaus and Kern.