For many families, preparing for college can feel overwhelming, especially when tutoring, test preparation, campus visits, and admissions counseling come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, eligible students across the United States can access many of these services for free through TRIO programs. These federally funded initiatives help students overcome financial, academic, and social barriers that may stand between them and higher education. If your teenager is the first in the family to attend college or comes from a qualifying background, these programs could provide valuable support throughout the college journey.