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How to Apply for MESA

Important

Student applications for Fall 2026 will open Week 8 of the Spring semester.

MESA accepts applications from entering Mt. SAC freshmen, and current Mt. SAC students who have no more than 75 units completed and at least two semesters remaining at Mt. SAC before transferring. Space is limited. Eligible students are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis.

    • 1 Check Eligibility & Requirements
      Student Eligibility: 
      • Minimum 2.4 overall GPA (not applicable to new Mt. SAC students).
      • Enroll in at least 6 units at Mt. SAC each Fall/Spring semesters & at least one class per semester is a STEM class.
      • Plan to transfer to a four-year institution (must not already hold a bachelor's degree).
      • Be a first-generation college student (i.e. neither of your parents have bachelor's degree from any country).
      • Receive financial aid (e.g. you receive a Pell grant, CA Promise grant, Cal grant, Federal Work Study, Cal Fresh, CA Dream Act, GI Bill, OR you are an EOPS/CARE/CalWorks participant, OR you are a TRIO participant, OR you or your guardian is a TANF/welfare recipient.)
      • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or AB 540/DACA student. Unfortunately,  International/F1 Visa students are not eligible.

      Student Commitments:
      ACADEMIC – Each Fall/Spring Semester:
      • I will submit a "Meet my Professor" form.
      • I will submit a mid-semester Academic Progress Report.
      • I will meet with the MESA counselor & have an updated MAP on file.
      • I will complete 10 hours total of: studying, or tutoring at the MESA Center, and/or attending MESA academic activities.
      CAREER – Each Academic Year:
      • I will attend one MESA Career Activity of my choice.
      • I will apply for at least 1 scholarship, internship, research, or professional development opportunity.
      COMMUNITY – Each Academic Year:
      • I will attend the MESA Fall kickoff.
      • I will attend one MESA Community Activity of my choice.
    • 2 Submit an Application

      The MESA student application form is linked here. Please allow up to 3 weeks for review of your application.

    • 3 Meet with the Director

      If you meet eligibility requirements, you will be contacted via your Mt. SAC student email to schedule an introductory meeting with the MESA Director. Contacted students who do not sign up to meet with the Director, or who miss their meeting, may contact the Director to be placed on a waitlist for the following semester or year.