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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

College Access Programs

College access programs aim to expand educational opportunities for students from low-income communities by preparing them to apply for and enter college. These programs often engage youth who would be the first in their immediate families to attend college, also known as first-generation college students. College access programs may include different types of interventions to promote college access, including mentoring, tutoring, and professional development.

Many college access programs provide financial counseling services and help prepare students for college entrance exams. In some rural communities, these programs operate as partnerships with the high school and the programs supplement the work of the existing college advisors. College access programs have the potential to improve test scores, grades, and college retention rates for students.

Examples of College Access Programs Addressing SDOH

  • Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is one of the largest national programs for improving college and career readiness of students from low-income families. GEAR UP helps low-income elementary, middle, and high schools build partnerships with universities and colleges. The program also works with state, local, and community-based organizations to provide support for students. GEAR UP aims to increase students' readiness for higher education and improve high school graduation rates. One rural GEAR UP program in San Luis, Arizona is supporting students in 15 rural Arizona communities. The program has improved high school graduation rates in the schools, provided opportunities for students to visit college campuses, and identified and helped students overcome barriers to college enrollment.
  • The College Knowledge Project in Mississippi and College Countdown MS are programs that support students through the college admission process, including applying for financial aid. College Countdown MS aims to increase the number of students across the state who apply and are accepted into higher education programs. The program provides one-on-one financial counseling to help students navigate payment options.
  • The Clemson Emerging Scholars Program in South Carolina provides students with academic and leadership training. The program also helps students navigate the college application process and works with Clemson University to provide opportunities for students to experience life on a college campus. While applications to in-state schools are highly encouraged, students can apply to any school of their choice.
  • College Advising Corps is a national program working to encourage low-income, first-generation college students to apply to higher education. The program uses both an in-person model and virtual model that connects college graduates with other students around the country.

Implementation Considerations

As with other educational approaches to address SDOH, college access programs can provide a variety of services to students and their families. These services require additional funding, training, staff, and buy-in from community members, parents, and school officials. Engaging community members, school staff, school and district leadership, and other community decision-makers is essential for ensuring program success and sustainability.