EOPS is a state-funded retention program that provides support services to students who are economically disadvantaged and educationally underprepared to obtain a degree or certificate. Some of the services EOPS provides include: book service; academic, career, and personal counseling; transfer assistance; tutoring; job placement; career assistance; emergency loans; and priority registration.

Eligibility for EOPS

Information in this section is subject to change as new state or institutional policies are implemented. Currently, EOPS services are offered to students who meet all of the following selection criteria:

• Are residents of California or be classified AB540
• Are enrolled full-time (12 or more units; 6 units for students with DSS certification) when accepted into the EOPS program
• Have not completed more than 69 units of degree-applicable coursework (including coursework completed at all colleges previously attended)
• Be qualified to receive a California College Promise Grant (CCPG) A or B every academic year
• Are judged to be educationally disadvantaged

Students are deemed “educationally disadvantaged” if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Have not graduated from high school or obtained the General Education Diploma (G.E.D.)
• Have graduated from high school with a grade point average below 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
• Have been previously enrolled in developmental education courses
• Meet other educational disadvantage criteria as defined by the state

How to Apply for EOPS

Students interested in applying for the EOPS program at Southwestern College must complete an EOPS application. Applications are available online at www.swccd.edu/eops. Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure consideration. For further information, contact the EOPS Cranium Cafe https://swccd.craniumcafe.com/group/extended-opportunity-programs--services-eopscare-front-desk/lobby. Office located in the Cesar E. Chavez Student Services Building, by telephone (619) 482-6456, or email eops@swccd.edu. (See, 5150 BP & AP - Extended Opportunity Programs & Services)