Summer bridge programs

Free summer starts for admitted students at Arizona colleges: who is eligible, what you get and how to apply.

If you’re admitted, ask about summer bridge in your acceptance packet or orientation sign-up.
Many are free and some give college credit, housing or a stipend.
Applications usually open in spring — save this page.

School

Type of program

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24 programs

Arizona State University
Early Start (The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences)
Early start
FreeHousingMealsCollege credit
Cost
There is no cost for you to attend. The College covers the cost of instruction, your room and all meals during the eleven-day program.
What’s included
You’ll move to campus early, make new friends and learn about your major — all while earning three elective credits.
College credit
three elective credits
Dates
2026 important dates ... Full program dates: Wednesday, August 5 to Saturday, August 15Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Participation in The College’s Early Start program is by invitation only. Space is limited so we encourage you to apply early.
How to apply
Eligible students will be invited by email and will also receive a postcard in the mail.
Format
in-person
Contact
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Early Start: thecollegeearlystart@asu.edu
Program page
Arizona State University
BioBridge Early Start Program
Early start
FreeCollege credit
Cost
The program is free
What’s included
You will receive 3 elective credits
College credit
3 elective credits
Dates
BioBridge 2026 runs Wednesday, August 5th to Saturday, August 15 (excluding Sunday, August 9 and Thursday, August 13)Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Participation in BioBridge is by special invitation only. Space is limited to the first 70 students.
How to apply
Participation in BioBridge is by special invitation only. Space is limited to the first 70 students. We encourage you to apply now!
Deadline
Application deadline: July 15
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
Humanities Early Start
Early start
FreeMealsCollege credit
Cost
The program, at no cost to you, includes eleven days from Wednesday, August 5, to Saturday, August 15, and then 10 hours during the fall semester.
What’s included
You’ll move to campus early, make new friends and learn about your major – all while earning three elective credits. Lunch and dinner will be provided throughout the program.
College credit
three elective credits
Dates
Wednesday, August 5 – Saturday, August 15 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (No classes on Sunday, August 9, or Thursday, August 13)Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Participation in the Humanities Early Start program is by special invitation only. Space is limited so we encourage you to apply early.
How to apply
Apply now.
Deadline
Applications are due by July 15, 2026 .
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
Psychology and Neuroscience Early Start
Early start
FreeMealsCollege credit
Cost
free
What’s included
You’ll get to move to campus early, make new friends and earn three elective credits — at no cost to you. Lunch and dinner included
College credit
three elective credits
Dates
Wednesday, August 5 to Saturday, August 15 Days off include Sunday, August 9 and Thursday August 13Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
You have the special opportunity to participate in the free Psychology and Neuroscience Early Start program
How to apply
Apply Now
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
School of Human Evolution and Social Change Early Start
Early start
Meals
What’s included
Lunch and dinner are provided.
Dates
Please note that the 2026 Early Start will not convene on Sunday, Aug. 9 and Thursday, Aug. 13.Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Participation in the School of Human Evolution Early Start program is by special invitation only.
How to apply
Apply now!
Deadline
2026 applications are due by July 15, 2026.
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
Early Start Math (School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences)
Early start
FreeMeals
Cost
our free, two-week immersion program
What’s included
Lunch and dinner meals included
Dates
Wednesday, August 5, 2026 through Saturday, August 15, 2026 (except we are not meeting Sunday, August 9 and Thursday, August 13)Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Participation in the Math Early Start program is by special invitation only.
How to apply
Apply Now
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
School of Molecular Sciences Early Start
Early start
FreeMeals
Cost
our free, nine-day immersion program
What’s included
Lunch and dinner will be provided
Dates
Program Dates: Wednesday, August 5 through Saturday, August 15 There will be no programming on Sunday, August 9 and Thursday, August 13Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
You’ll join fellow chemistry and biochemistry majors as you embark on a journey to becoming a scientist.
How to apply
Apply Now
Deadline
Application Deadline: July 15, 2026
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
School of Politics and Global Studies Early Start Program
Early start
FreeMeals
Cost
the free Early Start immersion program
What’s included
Lunch and dinner are provided
Dates
2026 Program Schedule ... Wednesday, August 5th to Saturday, August 15th ... Days off on Sunday, August 9th and Thursday, August 13thSummer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Join fellow incoming majors at ASU's School of Politics and Global Studies as you prepare for a smooth transition to campus life.
How to apply
Apply here
Deadline
Apply by Wednesday, July 15th, 2026.
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
Sundial Summer Program (Early Start)
Early start
FreeMealsCollege credit
Cost
offered at no cost to participants
What’s included
You’ll get to move to campus early, make new friends and earn three elective credits — at no cost to you . All meals included.
College credit
three elective credits
Dates
The 2026 Early Start program will take place between August 5th and August 15th (August 9th and 13th are off days).Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Incoming freshmen can participate in the Early Start bridge program, which occurs before the fall semester starts.
How to apply
Participation is by invitation only. If you have received an invitation you can fill out this form to secure your spot: https://visit.asu.edu/earlystart?r=1
Deadline
(application deadline: July 15, 2026 )
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics Early Start
Early start
FreeMeals
Cost
our free, early start immersion program
What’s included
Lunch and dinner provided
Dates
Wednesday, August 5 - Saturday, August 15 (we will have days off on Sunday, August 9 and Thursday, August 13)Dates not posted
Who’s eligible
Majors: Family and human development, sociology
How to apply
Apply now
Format
in-person
Program page
Arizona State University
Bridging Success Early Start
Early start
FreeHousingMeals
Cost
Your room, lunch and dinner each day are FREE.
What’s included
Your room, lunch and dinner each day are FREE.
Dates
Bridging Success Early Start runs from Sunday, August 9 - Friday, August 14, 2026, on the Tempe campus and is open to students enrolled at Tempe, Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West campuses.Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
If you are an entering freshman or transfer student with foster care background you can jump start your success at ASU by participating in Bridging Success Early Start.
How to apply
Once you are admitted to ASU you can register here for Bridging Success Early Start.
Format
in-person
Contact
ASU Foster Youth
Program page
Arizona State University
GCSP Summer Launch (Grand Challenges Scholars Program, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering)
Summer bridge
Cost
submitting waiver and $50 program fee
Dates
8/9/2026: Early Move-in and GCSP Summer Launch Welcome Dinner ... 8/14/2026: Summer Launch Programming (8:30am-4:00pm)Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
The GCSP Summer Launch provides newly admitted first-year Grand Challenges Scholars with the opportunity to build a community on campus
How to apply
Students that apply to the Grand Challenges Scholars Program and are admitted by July 20 th will receive information on how to apply to the GCSP Summer Launch.
Format
in-person
Contact
asugcsp@asu.edu
Program page
Northern Arizona University
Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Scholarship Program
Early start
FreeHousingMealsCollege credit
Cost
Eligible students and families do not pay to participate in the STAR Scholarship program. Costs are paid for by the student’s financial aid and include: housing meal plan tuition and fees books
What’s included
All STAR Program services and opportunities are free. NAU financial aid pays for all meals, housing, tuition, and fees.
College credit
take classes that apply toward their undergraduate degree
Dates
Students move-in on Saturday, May 30. Classes begin Monday, June 1. Classes end Friday, June 26.Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
The program is open to first-year students who are committed to earning their bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University. To be eligible for the STAR Program, you must meet the following criteria: Arizona resident accepted admission to NAU first-generation college student Pell-eligible
How to apply
APPLY NOW
Deadline
Students will need to have completed their 2025-2026 FAFSA by March 15 and their 2026-2027 FAFSA by May 1 to determine their eligibility for STAR.
Format
in-person
Contact
STAR Program: STARProgram@nau.edu, 928-523-6980
Program page
Northern Arizona University
Peak Performance Mathematics Bridge Program
Math and placement prep
Free
Cost
a flexible, free, completely virtual summer program
What’s included
Meet one-on-one with their assigned Math Coach for 6 personalized Zoom sessions
Dates
The 2026 Peak Performance Program will occur from June 1st – July 19th.Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
NAU students looking to prepare for the NAU Math Placement Test. AND NAU students enrolled in the following fall semester courses looking to strengthen the foundational concepts needed to start the semester feeling confident, capable, and ready to succeed.
How to apply
Enrollment for summer 2026 is now closed.
Format
online
Contact
Peak Performance: peakperformance@nau.edu, 928-523-9388
Program page
University of Arizona
New Start Summer Program
Summer bridge
FreeHousingMealsCollege credit
Cost
Participants of the New Start program will have no associated fees. Course fees, tuition, housing, meals, parking, etc. are all covered by the program.
What’s included
Students will complete a one-credit course focused on academic transition and student success, along with structured learning experiences in math and writing. | Participants will live on campus in a residential community during the program. | All meals are provided during the program.
College credit
Students will complete a one-credit course focused on academic transition and student success
Dates
The 2026 program is expected to serve approximately 100 to 150 students and will run from July 11 through Aug. 7, with instruction taking place July 12 through Aug. 6.Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
New Start is an invitation-only program offered to a small population of Arizona high school seniors who have been admitted to the University of Arizona.
How to apply
Review program details and see if this is the right fit for you! | Once you're ready, submit the Intake Form by June 5 to get started.
Deadline
submit the Intake Form by June 5
Format
in-person
Contact
New Start, newstart@arizona.edu, 520-621-3237
Program page
South Mountain Community College (Maricopa)
STEM PREP Bridge (SMCC STEM Summer Bridge)
Summer bridge
College credit
What’s included
while earning 4 college credits. ... All participants will receive a free scientific calculators and lab coat.
College credit
4 college credits
Dates
Dates not posted
Program page
Pima Community College
PCC College Prep Courses
Math and placement prep
Free
Cost
If you have placed into ICS081 or ACL080 then we have a free course for you.
What’s included
You’ll have the opportunity to learn, practice, and improve in the areas of mathematics or reading and writing.
Dates
Dates not posted
Who’s eligible
If you have placed into ICS081 or ACL080 then we have a free course for you.
How to apply
To reserve your spot, please complete this College Prep Interest Form.
Deadline
Enroll by June 30th.
Format
online
Program page
Central Arizona College
TRIO Summer Bridge
Summer bridge
FreeMeals
Cost
FREE to eligible students
What’s included
All learning materials, activities, and meals will be provided throughout the Summer Bridge Program.
Dates
Summer Bridge Dates: August 2nd -through the- 6th, 2026Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Summer Bridge is designed for incoming freshman students who have recently graduated from high school or obtained their GED, and plan to attend Central Arizona College’s Signal Peak Campus in Fall 2026. You are eligible to apply if you are*: First-Generation College Student – Neither parent (or guardian) completed a four-year college degree before your 16th birthday. Completed FASFA– CAC Student Accounts & Financial Aid You have a documented disability. Applicants must also intend to transfer to a four-year university to qualify for TRIO services. *Students must meet a minimum of one of the above-listed requirements.
How to apply
Interested in Attending? Complete an Application Today Summer Bridge 2026 Application
Format
in-person
Contact
TRIO 520-494-5007 | trio@centralaz.edu
Program page
Central Arizona College
Math Boot Camp
Math and placement prep
Free
Cost
Best of all the camp is FREE!! No tuition costs, no added fees, and no textbook costs!
What’s included
Learn from math faculty & instructional specialists. Learn how to use Blackboard and be an effective online student.
Dates
Dates for the Summer 2026 Math boot camps: Live Streaming Online June 22nd – June 25th Monday-Thursday 9 am – 3 pm; Face to Face camps Monday-Thursday 9 am – 3 pm June 1st – June 4th @ Superstition Mountain Campus June 8th – June 11th @ Maricopa Campus July 6th – July 9th @ San Tan Campus July 27th – July 30th @ Signal Peak CampusSummer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
Math Boot Camps are designed to assist high school students who will be taking or have taken dual enrollment courses, new incoming college students, and current enrolled students who want to keep their math skills current before starting fall courses.
How to apply
Registration for students will open in January 2026 through our Community Education link.
Format
hybrid
Program page
Cochise College
TRiO Summer Bridge
Summer bridge
FreeMeals
Cost
This event is completely FREE
What’s included
workshops, personality and career assessments, engaging activities, meals, transportation and a cultural enrichment trip
Dates
Dates: August 5–7, 2026Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
The TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) is organizing a summer bridge program for all of the incoming freshmen attending Cochise College in the 2026-2027 academic year. In order to qualify for the summer bridge program, you must: 1. Apply and be accepted for the TRiO SSS program 2. Complete the summer bridge program application (this Form) 3. Be enrolled in classes for the Fall 2026 semester before the Summer Bridge Program starts.
How to apply
Application Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/zTsxkWikZy If you're interested, be sure to complete the application before the deadline.
Format
in-person
Contact
triosss@cochise.edu
Program page
Coconino Community College
Native American & Low-Income Summer Bridge Program
Summer bridge
FreeCollege credit
Cost
CCC will cover the costs of tuition and books for ENG 101A and a college success course!
What’s included
In just eight weeks, you will take an ENG 101A course totaling five credit hours that will fulfill CCC degree requirements and you will also take an exciting college skills course. (Students will need to have housing and transportation)
College credit
an ENG 101A course totaling five credit hours
Dates
June 1, 2026 - July 23, 2026Summer 2026 details — the 2027 dates aren’t posted yet
Who’s eligible
First-time Native American & low-income freshmen students … The CCC Native American & low-income Summer Bridge program ensures new freshmen who are Arizona residents a successful transition from high school into college.
How to apply
SISS 2026 Summer Bridge Program Application is OPEN
Format
in-person
Contact
Contact Student Services 928-226-4323
Program page
Arizona State University
Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Early Start
Early start
Meals
This page shows no current dates or may be out of date. Ask the school before you plan around it.
What’s included
All meals included
Dates
Dates not posted
Who’s eligible
Participation in the Human Communication Early Start program is by special invitation only.
How to apply
Registration is now open for the 2025 Early Start program
Program page
Arizona State University
School of Social Transformation Early Start
Early start
FreeHousingMeals
This page shows no current dates or may be out of date. Ask the school before you plan around it.
Cost
our free, 11-day immersion program
What’s included
Move into your residence hall early at no cost—if you have a housing assignment. Get to know your classmates over free lunch and dinner Monday through Friday.
Dates
Dates not posted
Who’s eligible
Participation in the School of Social Transformation Early Start program is by special invitation only.
How to apply
Apply now
Format
in-person
Program page
University of Arizona
AZ-HOPE Bridge (AZ-HOPE Summer Bridge program)
Summer bridge
FreeCollege creditStipend or book money
This page shows no current dates or may be out of date. Ask the school before you plan around it.
Cost
The program is provided free to students
What’s included
Ten participants are selected and receive college credits, mentoring, certifications and health sciences networking opportunities. | Stipend Fund $1,500
College credit
Students receive 3 college credits for completing three courses: AED 195, EDL 297 and HPS 495.
Dates
Dates not posted
Who’s eligible
AZ-HOPE Bridge is a five-week college transition program for students interested in health sciences who have been newly admitted to the University of Arizona. Eligible students include transfer students and incoming freshmen.
How to apply
Requirements Transcripts One letter of recommendation from a professional who can attest to your abilities | Summer Bridge Program Application
Contact
UArizona Health Sciences, Student Engagement and Career Advancement
Program page

Checked against each program’s own page in November 2026. Programs change every year, so confirm with the school.

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Summer bridge programs

Early Start (The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences)

BioBridge Early Start Program

Humanities Early Start

Psychology and Neuroscience Early Start

School of Human Evolution and Social Change Early Start

Early Start Math (School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences)

School of Molecular Sciences Early Start

School of Politics and Global Studies Early Start Program

Sundial Summer Program (Early Start)

T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics Early Start

Bridging Success Early Start

GCSP Summer Launch (Grand Challenges Scholars Program, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering)

Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Scholarship Program

Peak Performance Mathematics Bridge Program

New Start Summer Program

STEM PREP Bridge (SMCC STEM Summer Bridge)

PCC College Prep Courses

TRIO Summer Bridge

Math Boot Camp

TRiO Summer Bridge

Native American & Low-Income Summer Bridge Program

Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Early Start

School of Social Transformation Early Start

AZ-HOPE Bridge (AZ-HOPE Summer Bridge program)

Getting ready for college

Summer bridge programs

Early Start (The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences)

BioBridge Early Start Program

Humanities Early Start

Psychology and Neuroscience Early Start

School of Human Evolution and Social Change Early Start

Early Start Math (School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences)

School of Molecular Sciences Early Start

School of Politics and Global Studies Early Start Program

Sundial Summer Program (Early Start)

T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics Early Start

Bridging Success Early Start

GCSP Summer Launch (Grand Challenges Scholars Program, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering)

Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Scholarship Program

Peak Performance Mathematics Bridge Program

New Start Summer Program

STEM PREP Bridge (SMCC STEM Summer Bridge)

PCC College Prep Courses

TRIO Summer Bridge

Math Boot Camp

TRiO Summer Bridge

Native American & Low-Income Summer Bridge Program

Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Early Start

School of Social Transformation Early Start

AZ-HOPE Bridge (AZ-HOPE Summer Bridge program)

Getting ready for college