What is STEP?
The Special Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP) is a two-year program for incoming first-generation, low-income students. The goal of the program is to provide students with the guidance, skills and resources to be successful at UC Davis. Incoming first-year UC Davis students eligible for STEP must apply and be selected for the program.
Benefits of STEP
Students who participate in STEP will have the opportunity to meet other students through community-building events and networking opportunities. STEP students receive support from EOP Peer Advising Counselors (PACs) and academic guidance from UC Davis faculty and staff. STEP students also receive four quarters of priority registration after completing the summer component of STEP and meeting program requirements.
Summer STEP
The program begins with a summer residential portion in which students stay in the residence halls for 6 weeks prior to the academic year. STEP students enroll in 6 units of Summer Session courses predetermined by EOP staff.
While adjusting to the rigor of UC Davis courses, STEP students learn about campus life and how to navigate campus resources. Additionally, STEP students build community with peers who will continue to support them during the academic year. STEP students can expect to engage in events around social justice, financial readiness, and effective study skills.
Students eligible for STEP are not automatically enrolled. Students interested in participating in STEP must complete and submit the STEP application. In order to apply, students first need to submit their Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) for UC Davis by May 1, 2025. FAFSA or CA Dream Act applications must also be submitted by June 6, 2025.
The STEP application can be found in MyAdmissions.
The STEP 2025 application deadline: June 1, 2025
Summer STEP General Expectation
STEP students are expected to take full advantage of program offerings and the educational opportunities they represent. During the summer component, STEP students must attend:
- Classes
- Office hours
- Tutoring
- STEP extracurricular activities
- Any appointments with staff from the EOP team
STEP students must also follow the UC Davis Principles of Community and commit to following the academic year expectations.
Freshman Foundations (Year 1)
During their first year, all STEP students will continue building on the academic and social skills they acquired during summer STEP while integrating into the broader campus community. This is done through:
- Participation in a First-Year Aggie Connection or a course approved by EOP
- Meeting with their Peer Advising Counselor (PAC) at least once per quarter
- Attending STEP and/or EOP events
Sophomore Success (Year 2)
During their second year, all STEP students refine the academic and social skills implemented during their first year while fostering personal growth and professional preparation. This is done through:
- Referrals to various campus programs and services
- Meeting with EOP staff for retention advising
- Attending STEP and/or EOP sponsored events
Upcoming STEP Events
If you're interested in learning more about STEP, please check your personal email for details regarding the following:
Virtual Happenings
- What is STEP? Webinar
Learn more about STEP, the STEP application, and this is the opportunity to ask our team any and all questions that you have regarding STEP.- Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 6:00 - 7:00 PM
- Register to attend: LINK
- Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 6:00 - 7:00 PM
- Virtual STEP Alumni Panel
Meet current UC Davis students who participated in STEP. Learn about their experience, how the program impacted and/or continues to impact their life, and ask questions about what you can expect in STEP.- Monday, May 12, 2025 5:00-6:00 PM
- Register to attend: LINK
- Monday, May 12, 2025 5:00-6:00 PM
- STEP Office Hours
Do you have any questions or want to know more about STEP? Hop on Zoom and meet with our staff during any of the following times:
Important Deadlines
May 1st, 2025: Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) Deadline
June 1st, 2025: STEP Application Deadline
June 6th, 2025: 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 FAFSA/CA Dream Act Application Deadline (this deadline is specifically for STEP)