Frequently Asked Questions about EOPS

What is EOPS?

EOPS is a state-funded program serving the academically and financially disadvantaged student with counseling and other support services to ensure completion of educational goals. Student success is our number one priority. EOPS assists eligible students to reach their goals through academic, personal and transfer counseling, a book service program for books, and other services.

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What services does EOPS offer?

• Academic Counseling
• Priority Registration
• EOPS Orientation
• Four California State University and four University of California transfer application fee waivers
• Assistance with acquisition of books through the Book Service, Book Loan, and Book Exchange Program
• Transfer Assistance
• Financial Aid Application assistance
• Supply Kit with scientific calculator, jump drive, and rolling backpack
• Emergency loan of $300 / year for critical needs linked to the student's Pell Grant
• Parking Permit
• Academic Awards Banquet for students with GPAs above 3.0
• Letters of Recommendations
• Cap and Gown Rental for graduation

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What other programs are within EOPS?

The Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) program provides services to students who are single head of household with a dependant(s) who is under the age of 14 years old. The CARE program works in conjunction with EOPS to provide support to CalWORKs students.

The CalWORKs Program is a partnership with Copper Mountain College and the Department of Social Services to serve Welfare-to-Work recipients who are currently receiving CalWORKs cash aid. The college's CalWORKs program offers an array of supportive services designed to assist students obtain the educational level they require to transition off of welfare and ultimately achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

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How do I qualify?

• You must be a California Resident
• You must enroll in a minimum of 12 units of credit classes
• You must complete less than 70 degree applicable college units
• You must apply for financial aid and qualify for a BOG A or B fee waiver
• You must be educationally disadvantaged, as determined by EOPS criteria

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How do I apply?

• Complete and turn in an EOPS Application in Student Services (Phase III)

• Come in to the EOPS front desk or go to www.cmccd.edu for an application and return to the EOPS front desk

• Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

• Come into the Financial Aid office or complete online at www.fafsa.ed.gov

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How do I know I'm accepted?

Once your application has been processed, you will receive a phone call from the EOPS which will tell you if you are eligible for the EOPS program. Your application will not be processed until we have received all required documents. If you are not accepted, you will receive a letter.

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Do I have to attend EOPS Orientation?

Yes. All EOPS students must attend an orientation to sign the EOPS Contract and to be eligible to receive the book service.

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What happens if a student has to withdraw from school?

Sometimes, our students find they have to withdraw from school for one reason or another. If this situation occurs, the student should set up an exit appointment with an EOPS/CARE counselor and return all EOPS purchased books to the EOPS Office. The appointment enables the student to leave in good standing with EOPS. When the student returns, he/she will be accepted into the EOPS program based on continued BOG A or B eligibility.

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What can a student do if he/she is having a problem?

If a student is having school or personal problems, he/she needs to see an EOPS counselor or staff person. We are here to help. Many students experience difficulties in school. It is the responsibility of the student to let EOPS know if he/she is falling behind or feels unable to do the work, which may affect his/her school performance. Early intervention can sometimes make all the difference. The EOPS Coordinator/Counselor may act as a liaison between the student and instructor, and resources in the community. Students who stay in touch with staff, and keep appointments with a counselor, are more likely to succeed than those who do not.

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How long can a student receive EOPS services?

Students entering the EOPS program may receive services for a maximum of (6) semesters or 70-degree applicable units, whichever comes first. Remedial courses such as ESL, English 50, Math 57, 50, and RDG 55, 50, 51 shall not be counted as part of the maximum number of units. Remedial semesters in which 50% or more of units are in foundational course shall not count towards the 6 semester limit.

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Are there any special services for transferring students?

EOPS students are eligible to receive four application fee waivers for the California State University system and 4 application fee waivers for the University of California system. EOP application packets for the California State Universities will be available to EOPS students as well as non-EOPS students.

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Does the student get to keep his/her books purchased by EOPS?

Yes. The books are the student's to keep unless they drop a class. The books from the dropped class (es) become the property of EOPS and must be returned to the EOPS office. Remember you can participate in the book exchange and book loan program each semester. See us before selling your textbooks!

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My BOGW changed from an A or B to a C, am I ineligible for EOPS services?

No. The student may remain in the program and receive full service if he/she continues to meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements and has complied with the EOPS Mutual Responsibility Contract.

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Contact EOPS/CARE at 760-366-3791 ext. 4247 for more information and to find out how EOPS/CARE can help you meet your educational goals at Copper Mountain College.