Rising Scholars Program at Mission College

The Rising Scholars Program at Mission College is dedicated to providing incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and justice-impacted students with access to higher education. Through personalized support and community connections, we help students redirect their lives, achieve academic success, and reach their full potential.

Supporting Second Chances

Mission College proudly partners with the Santa Clara County Office of the Sheriff to serve students at the Elmwood Correctional Facility, Main Jail, and Reentry Resource Center. Our program extends this support to students transitioning back into the community or enrolling on campus.

Eligibility Requirements

Students must meet one of the following criteria to join:

• Currently incarcerated
• Formerly incarcerated
• Justice-impacted

Benefits and Support Services

The Rising Scholars Program provides a wide range of resources to ensure academic and personal success:

• Personal Academic Counselor: Individualized guidance for educational goals
• Scholarship & Financial Aid Support: Help navigating tuition and funding
• Mental Health Counseling: Access to emotional support services
• Enrollment Assistance: Step-by-step help with application and registration
• Basic Needs Support: Food, transportation, free parking, and childcare
• Referrals to Community Services: Employment, housing, expungement, and more

Student & Community Resources

Mission College Resources 

• Request student ID/Smart pass (bus): Get your Mission College ID and access affordable or free bus transportation.
• Financial Aid: Navigate scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options to fund your education.
• Transcripts: Easily request your official or unofficial academic records.
• Basic Needs: Access food, transportation assistance, and other essential resources to support your well-being.
• Free Childcare at Mission College: Take advantage of on-campus childcare services to help balance your academic and personal responsibilities.
• Laptop/Hot Spot loans: Borrow technology tools to stay connected and succeed in your courses.
• Tutoring/Academic Support: Access free tutoring and learning resources to excel in your studies.
• Student Success Programs: Join specialized programs that provide mentorship, guidance, and additional support for your academic journey.

Community Resources

• Santa Clara County Reentry Center: Comprehensive support for reentry efforts
• Record Expungement: Clear your criminal record for a fresh start
• Tattoo Removal Services: Programs like New Skin and Clean Slate (ages 12-24).

Higher Education Opportunities

Mission College is part of the Rising Scholars Network, a statewide initiative supporting justice-impacted students across California.