About EIP

What is the Early Identification Program?

George Mason University's Early Identification Program (EIP) is an innovative, multiyear college preparatory program for first-generation college-bound middle and high school students. Established in 1987, EIP works in partnership with six local public school systems:

• Arlington Public Schools (1988)
• Fairfax County Public Schools (1987)
• Falls Church City Public Schools (1998)
• Manassas City Public Schools (2004)
• Manassas Park City Public Schools (2004)
• Prince William County Public Schools (1991)

to increase the number of students who will be the first in their family to attend college by heightening their academic aspirations. EIP's specific objectives are to:

• Identify students who have academic potential and need further support
• Identify students who are strong academically but may need guidance and support
• Encourage students to consider attending college
• Increase students' interest in academics and develop their leadership skills
• Educate and support EIP parents as they assist their child in their pursuit of college.

Acclaimed as a national model

• 1991 - U.S. Department of Education
• 1991 - American Association of Higher Education
• 1996 - Community Initiatives in Education Award, Quality Education for Minority Students (QEM)
• 1998 - Invited to the White House by President Clinton to the unveiling of his High Hopes for College initiative
• 1998 - Attended the White House for the signing of the legislation for High Hopes for College
• 2000 - Governor's Partnership in Education Award
• 2000 - Partnership Award, Arlington County Public Schools
• 2001 - Civic Award, Arlington County Public School Administrators
• 2001 - Martha Wyatt Award, Hispanic Committee of Virginia
• 2006 - Northern Virginia Community Foundation

The Early Identification Program is staffed by dedicated administrators, teachers and tutors, who make academics exciting to students by showing them they can learn challenging material and can be the first in their family to attend college. Program activities are free, and most are held on Mason's Fairfax and Prince William campuses:

• Tutoring sessions with university students and community volunteers
• Math review workshops
• Science enrichment workshops
• College prep workshops
• Leadership development
• Cultural experiences
• Three week summer academic enrichment program

George Mason University guarantees admission to those students who successfully complete the EIP program and who meet the University's admission requirements. Mason offers at least four tuition scholarships to EIP students and actively pursues support for other scholarships from private sponsors and donors