MEOC Points

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Maine Educational Opportunity Center work with community agencies to provide a program that opens doors for Maine’s low income, first generation adults – by helping them aspire to, prepare for, and access the best educational opportunities available.

Helping Maine’s Low Income and Potential First Generation College
Adults Access Higher Education Since 1991

Maine Educational Opportunity Center (MEOC)

  • Provides one-on-one and group support, and guidance to low income adults who will be the first in their families to attend college.
  • Is funded entirely by the United States Dept. of Education and sponsored by the University of Maine’s College of Education and Human Development.
  • Provides access to postsecondary education to a minimum of 2,269 adults per year.

The Mission of MEOC is:

  • Increase the awareness of post secondary educational opportunities available to Maine’s low income, first generation adults who desire to pursue higher education.
  • Assist eligible adults in successfully matching career goals to education plans with the goal of ultimately earning a college degree.

Why Educational Opportunity Center in Maine?

  • Only 27.5% of Maine residents age 25 and older have baccalaureate degree or higher. This is the lowest rate in New England. (American Community Survey, 2014 )
  • Only 62% of Maine’s graduating seniors went on to college within a year of graduating. (Mitchell Institute)
  • Students from families whose parents did not attend college score significantly lower on the Maine Educational
  • Assessment than students whose parents are college educated (ME Dept of Education)
  • Of adults aged 19 or older with a high school credential, only 10.9% are enrolled in Maine’s universities or community colleges. (American Community Survey, 2014 & IPEDS, 2015)
  • Many adults interested in college, never even start the process. In fact, according to a University of Maine System survey, of adults who inquire about college, only 38% even complete an application.

A Measure of Student and Program Success

Maine Educational Opportunity Center has a notable record of student and program success.

In 2017,

  • 587 MEOC participants enrolled in college.
  • MEOC assisted more than 1,300 participants in applying for their FAFSA.

Since 1991,

  • MEOC has placed more than 16,500 adults in college.
  • MEOC has assisted more than 50,500 Maine adults in exploring college and career options.

Why Is MEOC Successful?

MEOC participants experience a diverse series of workshops – as well as opportunities that promote higher education. Our services focus on:

  • Academic Skills (i.e. test-taking, study skills, etc)
  • College Awareness & Planning
  • Career Education & Exploration
  • Financial Planning/Financial Aid process

MEOC Succeeds – Year After Year

MEOC has established collaborative relationships with colleges, adult education centers and community agencies. For low income, first generation students, MEOC works to break the cycle of poverty by encouraging adults to pursue post secondary education.