Freshman-Sophomore EXCEL Grant 2009-2010
The EXCEL Program at CSUEB is proud to announce that it has been selected by The U.S. Department of Education, for the 7th year in a row, to receive the EXCEL Freshman-Sophomore Grant (Annual award: $700 - $1500). This grant addresses the important role that financial support plays for low-income, first generation college, and/or disabled students. The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage EXCEL Freshman-Sophomore students to pursue their baccalaureate degree.
A little TRIO History:
The Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965 was a legislative document that was signed into law "to strengthen the educational resources of our colleges and universities and to provide financial assistance for students in postsecondary and higher education" (Pub. L. No. 89-329). The HEA created grants, loans and other programs to help students acquire education beyond secondary school. Today they are known as the Federal TRIO Programs.
One of these programs is called Student Support Services (a.k.a. EXCEL Program). These programs were designed to help low-income and first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities graduate from college with baccalaureate degrees. EXCEL participants receive assistance with securing financial aid; personal, academic and career counseling; tutoring; assistance with applying to graduate and professional programs; and activities specially designed for students with limited English proficiency. Higher education students are now being served at over 948 colleges and universities nationwide.
An EXCEL Student must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Enrolled CSUEB Freshman/Sophomore EXCEL participant in Fall 2009
- Must be a full-time undergraduate student (12 or more units) in FAll 2009
- Satisfactory academic standing (2.0 or above Overall University GPA)
- (first quarter first year students' High School GPA will be used)
- Current PELL Grant recipient
- Expected 2009-2010 Financial Aid Family Contribution (EFC) of $1500 or less
Application Process:
- Submit the EXCEL Freshman-Sophomore Grant Application (obtain applications at: EXCEL Main Office, LI 2450, by calling 510.885.3722 or download the PDF, EXCEL Freshman-Sophomore Grant Application ).
- Submit a one page personal statement (500 words or less):
Topic Examples:
- Obstacles you have overcome.
- Current and long term educational life, and career goals.
- Special community service, experience, or activities you have participated.
The Postmark Deadline for all documents is: Friday, September 4, 2009
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