The EP Process

SEO's goals are for 100% of scholars to apply and be admitted to a 4-year college and all Scholars enroll in a college that reflects their academic, personal, and is financial needs which will ensure successful college graduation. The UC system is an exemplary education system that allows SEO scholars to meet this goal, therefore UC eligibility is a major factor in determining college readiness and applicant competitiveness. 

If a scholar is not on track to be UC eligible, or has a GPA below 3.0, they will need to refocus efforts on school work and the scholar will not be eligible for EPs. 

SEO only supports certain types of Enrichment programs that focus on creating competitive college applicants. *We do not support travel EPs. You may be asked to fundraise if your EP is not on the SEO list. 

Programs must meet the following criteria:

• Cannot conflict with Senior Bootcamp: July 21-August 1, 2025

• Programs with tuition/fees must offer scholarships, ideally fully or heavily discounted

• Academic/Pre-college programs must take place at a college on the SEO Approved College List 

• Programs must be in one of three categories: 

  • • • Academic/Pre-college: Challenging college courses at competitive universities. (4-12 weeks) 

      • Internship: Professional experience in Law, Medicine, and Business (2-8 weeks)

      • Experiential: “Learn by doing" through arts, technology or nature. (2-4 weeks) 

• Programs must align with SEO values and learning philosophy (See Sections 1 & 2 in the “FY25 Scholar Handbook.”)

• Target program duration: 2-6 weeks 

Almost all of the programs are highly competitive and, therefore, highly selective. This also means that the application process is rigorous, difficult, and admission into a program is not always guaranteed – therefore, you will have to apply to more than one program. Scholars work with their PMs and mentors closely to research and apply to at least 3 programs of their choosing that align with their college and career goals.

Please inform SEO of your completed EP applications, program acceptances/rejections, and your commitment to any EP's.

• Pre-Departure: Lastly, the EP process does not end once you submit your application.  Although the application process can be quite challenging, much of your work will come after you’re accepted into your program. During this time leading into your departure, it is extremely important that you are regularly communicating with your PM and plan ahead so that you are not waiting until the last minute to submit your pre-departure materials. Ninety percent of programs require a medical form that needs to be filled out by your physician.  Due to high volume, it can take a month for your doctor to fill out your medical form so please do not wait until the last minute to get this completed.  

• Return Survey: Once you have completed your enrichment program, you will be a senior and you will have a new program manager. The 12th grade program manager will instruct you to complete a survey to document your experience in the enrichment program. This data is helpful for future scholars.