Eligibility Requirements

Who is eligible for MESA? 

A student must:

• Be studying a calculus-based science, engineering, technology, or math major  
  • Common majors include biology, chemistry, computer science, data science, environmental science, geology, mathematics, and all engineering majors.   
  • Nursing majors are eligible if they plan to complete Math 123 and 124 
• Be a first-generation college student  
  • Neither parent completed a Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college in any country  
• Demonstrate financial need through ONE of the following: 
  • Receive financial aid: BOG, California Promise Grant, PELL grant, CA Dream Act, Federal Work Study, Cal Fresh, GI Bill, or other need-based financial aid 
  • EOPS, CARE, CalWORKS, or TRIO Program participant 
  • Student, parent, or guardian is a TANF recipient  
  • Household income at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines 
• Have no previous bachelor’s degree 
• Be a US Citizen, permanent resident, or AB 540  
• Agree to participate in MESA Program activities and sign our student agreement  

If you do not meet the above requirements, you are invited to join the “Friends of MESA” cohort.

Who is eligible for Friends of MESA? 

Eligibility for “Friends of MESA” is the same as for MESA, however students must either be a first-generation college student or demonstrate financial need. 

“Friends of MESA” students enjoy all the same benefits as MESA students, except eligibility for scholarships or conference travel.