Talent Search Program
The Talent Search Program funds projects that help disadvantaged students finish high school and pursue college by providing guidance and support for educational opportunities and financial aid.
Funder: Office of Postsecondary Education
Due Dates: May 1, 2026 (original application) | July 9, 2026 (reopened for disaster-affected CNMI applicants) | June 30, 2026 (Intergovernmental Review) | September 7, 2026 (Revised Intergovernmental Review for disaster-affected CNMI applicants)
Funding Amounts: $250,000–$10,000,000/year (max $1M for most, up to $10M for designated state-level/tribal applicants); 5-year project period; est. total $175M; ~175 awards
Summary: Supports projects that identify and assist disadvantaged youth to complete secondary school and pursue postsecondary education, with a focus on expanding access to educational and career pathways.
Key Information: Minimum 500 participants/year; at least two-thirds must be low-income, first-generation college students.
Description
The Talent Search Program, administered by the Office of Postsecondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education, funds projects that identify and support individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program aims to increase the number of youth who complete high school and enroll in postsecondary education by providing academic, financial, and career counseling, as well as assistance in applying for college and financial aid.
Projects are designed to serve socioeconomically disadvantaged communities and may include activities to expand access to high-impact tutoring, distance education, pre-apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships, and programs leading to in-demand, industry-recognized postsecondary credentials. Grantees are encouraged to connect educational pathways with workforce outcomes and develop scalable data infrastructure to support student success.
