About TRIO

TRIO is a family of federally funded programs created to support students as they prepare for and succeed in higher education. At UNCG, the Office of TRIO Programs includes: 

  • Student Support Services (SSS) Classic – for students in all majors 
  • SSS STEM-Health Sciences (STEM-H) – for students in science, technology, engineering, and health-related fields 
  • Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program – for students who aspire to earn a Ph.D. and come from underrepresented backgrounds in graduate education 

Student Support Services (SSS)

UNCG’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) Classic and SSS STEM-Health Sciences (STEM-H) programs provide wraparound support to help students thrive academically, personally, and professionally. We offer guidance navigating college life, financial aid, and financial literacy—so you don’t have to do it alone. 

SSS is a federally funded TRIO program that supports undergraduate students who: 

  • Are first-generation college students 
  • Meet lowincome guidelines from the Department of Education  
  • Have a documented disability registered with UNCG’s Office of Accessibility Resources & Services (OARS) (link the abbreviation of OARS to the OARS site) 

In addition, eligible students must demonstrate academic need- which may include: 

  • High school GPA below 2.5 or college GPA below 2.0 
  • Low placement test scores  
  • Limited high school preparation for college-level coursework 
  • Need for support in study skills, time management, or test preparation 
  • Transfer or nontraditional student status with gaps in educational continuity 

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to apply or reach out—we’re happy to help assess your eligibility. 

What We Offer 

Through SSS Classic (open to all majors) and SSS STEM-H (for students in select science, technology, engineering, medical, and health-related fields), we offer: 

  • Academic advising and educational planning 
  • Peer mentoring and one-on-one tutoring 
  • Career and graduate school preparation 
  • Personal development and skill-building support 

Whether you’re navigating your first year, preparing for graduate school, or building study strategies, our TRIO Team is here to help you succeed- and to make sure you feel seen, supported, and part of something meaningful. 

UNCG-McNair Scholars Program

Are you thinking about earning a Ph.D. one day? The UNCG TRIO McNair Scholars Program is here to help you take that next big step. 

This prestigious research program is designed for undergraduate students who want to pursue doctoral studies and make a lasting impact in their fields. McNair Scholars work closely with faculty mentors and TRIO staff, complete a research project, and receive a research stipend upon completion. 

Each year, we select 25 motivated UNCG undergraduates to join our McNair community- a place where you’ll be challenged, supported, and inspired. 

Why Join McNair? 

  • Faculty Mentorship – Work one-on-one with a faculty member in your field 
  • McNair Summer Research Institute – Receive a stipend to dive into an 8-week experience that includes research, interactive workshops, cultural events, and personal development 
  • Opportunities to Present – Share your research at state, regional, and national conferences 
  • Grad School Prep – Access resources for GRE prep, application guidance, school visits, and financial planning 
  • Professional Growth – Build academic and leadership skills that set you apart 
  • Supportive Community – Be part of a network that believes in you and your potential 

To qualify for UNCG-McNair, you must: 

  • Be a first-generation college student [neither biological or adoptive parent(s) have a 4-year college degree] AND come from a low-income family (based on Department of Education’s Income Guidelines). 
  • OR, be a member of a group that is traditionally under-represented in graduate studies (African-American, Hispanic/Latino, Alaskan Native/American Indian, or Pacific Islander). 

In addition, UNCG-McNair candidates must also: 

  • Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. 
  • Be enrolled as a full-time student at UNCG. 
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. 

      If you’re ready to explore your future in graduate school—and want a community that will support your dreams every step of the way—the McNair Scholars Program is for you. 

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