Academic Preparation Programs

The University recognizes and values the intellectual and cultural contributions of a student population that encompasses the diversity of the people of California. To support its commitment to diversity, the University provides special services to students from educationally disadvantaged and low-income backgrounds.

Special educational programs and support services are available to help middle school and high school students and students transferring to UC from community colleges, as well as students already enrolled in the University.

The Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) motivates middle and high school students, helping them to select the proper courses in high school, strengthen academic and study skills, and prepare for future academic and career opportunities.

Academic enrichment programs, such as EAOP, The Puente Project and Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA), help educationally disadvantaged students prepare for UC admission by offering services to strengthen academic skills and test preparation, guide high school course selection and explain the admissions and financial aid application process. Immediate outreach officers help students select the right campus and advise them on admissions and financial aid.

Once enrolled at UC, students may participate in services that help them make the transition to University life, including Summer Bridge programs, orientations, personal counseling, academic advising and academic skills development programs.

Program Links

UC and its educational partners offer many academic preparation programs. Some students may also be eligible for programs such as those offered through the following organizations:

EAOP  |  Early Academic Outreach Program
COSMOS   |  The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science
MESA  | Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement
The Puente Project   |  An academic preparation program
SAGE  | Student Achievement Guided by Experience
UCCP  |  UC College Prep Initiative
GEAR UP  | Stimulates interest in college attendance
CAMP  |  California Alliance for Minority Participation 
The Edward Teller Education Center  |  K-14 education in science and technology

Read more about UC's efforts to improve academic preparation:

Basic information on academic preparation
UC's partnerships with K-12 schools
College preparatory and outreach programs
UC campus-based college preparation and outreach programs
Community college-based programs
Preparing for graduate study