Pre-college programs are a way for high school students to get comfortable with college life. They can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks and are offered by almost all colleges that have the resources. These programs are a way for colleges to get to know the students that may be accepted into their future student body. Pre-college programs provide an otherwise impossible experience of living and learning on a campus before actually applying.

There are so many different programs to choose from, but several factors can greatly influence your decision—and your chance of getting in.

Scholarships

Unfortunately, many college programs can be expensive. There is a bright side though. Since so many of the schools that provide pre-college programs have a relatively large endowment, they are able to provide scholarships even for trips as short as college programs usually are.

Racial Priority

Many schools offer diversity-specific programs. Amherst College, for example, offers a Diversity Open House program which is used to introduce prospective applicants to their campus. Since so many people from Hawaii are racial minorities, they stand a good chance at getting into many of these programs.

Location

While many students may be curious about states far from home, they are sometimes reluctant to entertain this idea. Being cautious about the unknown is natural. Pre-college programs provide a comfortable, safe experience in which students can explore their options and see what college is the right fit for them. It also allows students to widen their world view through exploration and travel.

Opportunity

If a student has a specific college already in mind, pre-college programs are a great way for them to learn more about it and see if they are still interested after truly experiencing college life there. Websites like USummer and CollegeExpress both provide specific information on certain colleges. You can also visit individual university websites to see what kind of programs they provide.

Most of all, pre-college programs should be looked at as a way to learn more while improving your resume. The experience greatly prepares students for college life in a way not much else can.

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