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Educational Talent Search

252 Summit Street
Richmond, KY

Mailing Address:
Telford House
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, Kentucky 40475-3102

859-622-5425
Fax: 859-622-5033
ets@eku.edu

Department Directory

Educational Talent Search

The Educational Talent Search (ETS) Program, hosted at Eastern Kentucky University, is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. ETS currently serves middle school and high school students in the following Kentucky counties: Estill, Garrard, Jackson, Lee and Madison.

As a college access and success program, the Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals who have the potential to succeed in higher education (community college, vocational/technical school, four-year college or university, or proprietary school).

ETS provides opportunities for personal skill development, career exploration, interest inventories, guidance and mentoring, referrals to tutoring programs, information on postsecondary institutions; financial aid and scholarships, financial literacy, STEM (science, technology, engineering & math) activities, civic learning and engagement, guidance on and assistance in secondary school reentry, and workshops for families of participants.

The programs and activities are specially designed for students who are traditionally underrepresented in postsecondary education, students from low-income families, students who could potentially be "first-generation" college students, students with disabilities, students who are homeless, in foster care, aging out of the foster care system or other disconnected students. Two-thirds of all ETS participants must meet the federal income and first-generation guidelines set by the US Department of Education.

The ETS Program has an on-going application and selection process. ETS representatives work with participants in group and individual sessions. All services and activities are FREE!

ETS Online Application ETS Hard-Copy Application

Application Information

The Educational Talent Search (ETS) Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, is one of the federal “TRIO Programs”. Our program provides assistance to students who have the interest and ability to continue their education after high school. The ETS Application can be submitted via online or in hard-copy.

  • The U.S. Department of Education requires us to request a copy of your most recent federal income tax form if you filed income tax. Please enclose or attach a SIGNED copy of your last year’s 1040 Tax Form (front page & signature page). Be sure parent has signed the tax form.
  • If you did not file a tax return last year, please indicate so.
  • An Educational Records Release is part of the application, and must be signed in order of us to work with the participant in the schools.
  • Parent/guardian signature is required. If you have any questions, please call our office at (859) 622-5425.
  • ALL applicant information is held in complete confidence by our program.

THE EKU Educational Talent Search (TRIO) Program, is funded at $441,359 in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education for the 2024-2025 grant year (September 1, 2024 thru August 31, 2025). This disclosure is made in compliance with Public Law 108-447 Sec 506.