Frequently Asked Questions

Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRIO program designed to help students succeed at LSU, graduate, and prepare for careers or graduate school. SSS provides academic support, advising, and opportunities for personal and professional growth

LSU Student Support Services offers three distinct programs designed to meet the needs of different student populations. While all programs provide academic support, advising, and opportunities for personal growth, each program has a specific focus:

SSS Classic

Supports students who are first-generation, income-eligible, or have a documented disability. This program focuses on building academic confidence, navigating college successfully, and connecting students to campus resources.

 

SSS Disability

Designed specifically for students with documented disabilities. This program provides individualized support, advocacy, and guidance to help students succeed academically and personally at LSU.

SSS Teacher Preparation

Supports students pursuing careers in education. This program offers specialized resources such as Praxis preparation, professional development, and mentorship to help future educators succeed.

Students will be placed in the program that best aligns with their eligibility and academic goals.

All programs provide the following core services, while each program also offers specialized resources tailored to student needs.

o   One-on-one academic advising

o   Tutoring and study support

o   Financial literacy and college aid guidance

o   Workshops on academic success, career readiness, and life skills

o   Leadership and engagement opportunities

o   Educational enrichment opportunities

o   Career and graduate school preparation

To be eligible for SSS, students must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• First-generation college student (neither parent has earned a bachelor’s degree)
• Meet federal income guidelines, typically demonstrated through Pell Grant eligibility
• Have a documented disability

Students must also be enrolled at LSU and demonstrate a need for academic support.

No. Students only need to meet one of the eligibility criteria (first-generation, income-eligible, or a student with a documented disability) to be considered for SSS. Eligibility is determined based on federal TRIO guidelines.

o   Priority scheduling for academic planning and course registration

o   Personalized support aligned with your academic and personal goals

o   Access to resources, tools, and enrichment opportunities

o   A supportive community of peers and professional staff

o   Guidance to help you stay on track toward graduation

o   Skill-building in study strategies, time management, and financial literacy

o   Increased confidence in navigating college and overcoming challenges

o   Ongoing academic planning and success coaching

o   Preparation for graduation and next steps after college

No. All SSS services are free to eligible students.

 Students are expected to actively engage by:

• Meeting with their assigned advisor a minimum of 3 times each semester
• Participating in workshops and program activities
• Utilizing tutoring or study support
• Working toward their academic and personal goals

Students can apply here (SSS Application)

After applying, eligible students will receive follow-up communication from our office with next steps.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but space is limited. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Applicants will be notified via their LSU email regarding their application status and next steps.

New students begin by engaging in SSS services during their first semester, including meeting with an advisor, attending workshops, and participating in program activities. Continued participation allows students to fully access the benefits of SSS and remain active in the program.

If you have questions or need assistance with the application, please contact the Student Support Services office at sss@lsu.edu or 225-578-8308.

Yes. Students can participate in SSS while being involved in other campus programs, organizations, or academic opportunities. During the interview process, we’ll discuss your commitments and goals to determine whether SSS is a good fit for you.

No. SSS supports students at all stages of their academic journey. While students must demonstrate academic need, this is determined by a variety of factors such as high school performance, standardized test scores, and college grades (for continuing students).

Many students participate in SSS to stay on track, build skills, and take advantage of additional resources that support their success.

No. Students can apply to SSS at any point during their college career. However, applying earlier allows students to take full advantage of the program’s support, guidance, and resources throughout their academic journey.

SSS provides a more personalized, proactive, and holistic support system. Students work closely with an assigned advisor and have access to structured programming, ongoing guidance, and a supportive community throughout their time at LSU.