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.
- As per state guidelines, nursing majors are ineligible for the program.
- 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, undocumented or AB 540
- Agree to participate in MESA Program activities and sign our student agreement
If you do not meet the above requirements, you may be eligible for 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. They do not need both criteria.
“Friends of MESA” students enjoy all the same benefits as MESA students, except eligibility for scholarships, stipends, or out-of-state conference travel.
| Eligibility | MESA | Friends of MESA |
|---|---|---|
| Studying an eligible STEM major | ✓ | ✓ |
| First-generation college student | ✓ | Only need one |
| Demonstrate financial need | ✓ | |
| No previous bachelor’s degree | ✓ | ✓ |
| US Citizen, Permanent resident, or AB 540 | ✓ | ✓ |