Program Overview

Introduction to the Summer Bridge Program

The Summer Bridge Program (SBP) is designed to provide a comprehensive orientation and transition experience for first-generation college students who are also from limited income families (eligible for Pell-Grant).

Program Overview

The Summer Bridge Program is a seven-week intensive experience followed by continued support through completion of the bachelor's degree at FSU. The program aims to facilitate students' connection to FSU, introduce them to academic expectations, provide access to academic support and engagement opportunities, and assist them in each transition throughout their college life.

Eligible Participants

SBP is open to new first-year, first-generation college students. First-Generation status is defined as neither parent (biological or adoptive) possessing a bachelor's degree, having regularly resided with and received support from only one parent who does not have a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, participants must also be eligible for Pell Grant based on FAFSA.

Application and Admission

To apply, students can complete the Common App or FSU Application. Review of qualifications for Summer Bridge is required prior to beginning the application.

Key Program Information

Students admitted to Summer Bridge for Summer 2026 will officially begin on June 13, 2026, and end on July 31, 2026. After a week of orientation programming, classes will begin on June 22. The dates are not flexible or negotiable, and attendance is required to maintain admission.

SBP Experience

SBP participants will have a mix of academic and student development focused experiences designed to support their success as an FSU student. Each participant is expected to engage in the following activities and be a responsible member of the program:

• Complete required academic coursework, including two 3-credit hour CoreFSU courses during the summer semester.
• Meet one-on-one or in small groups with an assigned CARE Ambassador, who is a continuing FSU student trained to be a peer mentor and resource for your transition.
• Attend CARE-wide engagement programming such as Alumni Networking, Meet the Faculty, General Assemblies, and others.
• Engage in academic support activities such as study groups or tutoring.
• Complete specific requirements each semester of enrollment after the summer experience to maintain access to the CARE Grant.

Being a CARE Student

As a Summer Bridge Program participant, students are considered CARE students, which provides them with access to support services during and after their first year. CARE's extensive support network has propelled FSU's retention and graduation rates for first-generation college students well above the national averages. CARE staff will conduct semesterly check-ins with students and communicate opportunities that will allow them to thrive at Florida State and beyond. Students will have access to additional academic advisors, college life coaching, tutoring, CARE-specific scholarships, and more.