sustainable access
to education.

MEI's three-tier model creates multiple entry points for students while building a sustainable foundation for long-term educational support. Each pathway serves different needs while contributing to the overall strength of the system.

Our Access Model.

  • Comprehensive Scholarships

    WHO IT SERVES

    Students who need the highest level of financial support to access education.

    WHAT'S INCLUDED

    Tuition support up to MEI’s annual scholarship cap

    School placement assistance

    Ongoing check-ins and student support

    Access to MEI’s mentorship network


    HOW WE FUND IT

    Funded through monthly donors and institutional partners.

  • Shared Scholarships

    WHO IT SERVES

    Students whose costs can be shared between families, schools, and partner networks.

    WHAT’S INCLUDED

    Tuition support at a shared-cost level

    School placement assistance

    Academic guidance and student check-ins

    Access to community resources and mentorship networks


    HOW WE FUND IT

    Co-funded by MEI, families, schools, and community partners.

  • Digital Education

    WHO IT SERVES

    Students who are preparing for entrepreneurship or modern, digital-driven careers through certificates, programs, and hands-on learning.

    WHAT'S INCLUDED

    Digital certificates and courses

    Online training programs

    Coaching programs and internship placement help

    Industry connections through partner employers

    HOW WE FUND IT

    Funded through monthly donors and institutional partners.

Apply or Refer a Student

How it works.

1. Student Intake

We get to know each student’s goals, background, and current circumstances to understand what support will make the biggest difference.


2. Tier Placement

Using this information, students are matched with the tier that fits their academic path and financial needs. Whether comprehensive support, shared support, or a digital pathway.

3. Support Delivery

Once placed, students receive the resources connected to their tier, including tuition support, school placement help, academic guidance, or access to digital programs.

4. Community Connection

Students join a growing network of peers, volunteers, and future mentors. As the mentorship program expands in 2027, students will gain access to structured guidance and career support.

WHY IT WORKS

ACCESSIBILITY

More students can access support.
With three entry points, no one is excluded because of their starting point, goals, or financial situation.

FLEXIBILITY

As student’s needs change, the model adapts.
Students can shift between tiers as their circumstances evolve, ensuring support remains aligned with real life.

COMMUNITY

All students stay connected.
Regardless of tier, students access the same community network of peers, volunteers, and future mentors.

 FAQs

  • Anyone pursuing education, training, or career development can apply.

    While MEI specializes in supporting Transitional-Age Youth (TAY), typically ages 16–24 navigating school, independence, or foster care transitions, we review every application individually.

  • MEI supports students in three main areas:

    • Los Angeles: local mentorship, support, and digital pathways

    • United States: scholarship assistance and digital programs

    • International: We work globally with trusted partners to provide scholarship and school placement support

    Your location does not disqualify you.

  • A Comprehensive Scholarship is MEI’s highest level of support.

    It is designed for students who face significant financial or environmental barriers to staying in school.
    Support levels vary depending on the country, school type, program length, and actual cost of education.

    This tier is focused on high-need students and is funded through dedicated donors and partners who want to ensure every student has a real chance to continue their education.

  • Educational costs are different in every country, school, and program and some fees change year to year.
    To stay responsible, MEI sets an annual financial cap for each Comprehensive Scholarship.

    What students need to know:
    If your school fees fall within MEI’s cap → we can usually cover them.
    If your school fees exceed the cap → we work with you, your school, and community partners to find a shared plan.

  • Anyone can refer a student: teachers, community leaders, social workers, family members, mentors, or friends.
    There are two simple ways to make a referral:

    1. Share the application link.

    The student can apply directly through our website.

    2. Submit a referral form yourself.

    Tell us the student’s name, location, age, and why you believe they’d benefit from MEI. Our team will reach out to them (or their family/guardian when appropriate) with next steps.

    Referrals are especially helpful for:

    • Transitional-Age Youth (ages ~16–24)

    • Students who are disconnected from school

    • Students who have strong potential but limited support

    You don’t need to explain everything or know all the details, just help us get connected. We’ll take it from there.

Need help?

Our team is here for you, every step of the way.

get in touch