Summer Bridge Scholars Program

Precollege students in a classroom attending a presentation.

The Summer Bridge Scholars Program at the University of Colorado Boulder is a transformative, four-week, academic, residential experience designed to provide selected first-generation students with invaluable early access to campus life. The Summer Bridge Scholars Program serves as a vital steppingstone for a seamless transition into the CU Boulder community. This dynamic program offers a preview of university-level academics and fosters a supportive environment where scholars can forge meaningful connections with peers, faculty and staff. By participating in the Summer Bridge Scholars Program before embarking on their first year in the Fall semester, students cultivate a sense of belonging and ownership within the institution from the outset. Through engaging coursework, mentorship opportunities, and co-curricular activities, participants enhance their academic skills and develop the confidence and resources necessary to thrive in their collegiate journey. By embracing diversity and championing inclusivity, the program empowers students to navigate the complexities of university life while building a solid foundation for academic and personal success. Ultimately, the Summer Bridge Scholars Program serves as a beacon of opportunity. It provides a vital pathway for first-generation students to embark on their collegiate adventure at CU Boulder with confidence, purpose, and a vibrant sense of community. The program offers the following:  

  • Free Housing & Meals 
  • Free 6 credit hour college courses 
  • 鶹Ժ Build a Peer Community cohort 
  • Access to Faculty & Staff Support 
  • Paired with a Peer Mentor Leader 
  • Receive a one-time participation stipend 
  • Engage and participate in a CU Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, Diversity (LEAD) Alliance throughout their years at CU. 
  • Engage in programming with the Bridge Scholars Program throughout their years at CU. 
  • Receive a $2,000 Boulder Bridge Ignite Scholarship for 5 years or   
  • Receive a $10,000 Boulder Bridge Scholars for 4 years with admission decision  
  • Participants will continue to be paired with a Peer Mentor Leader for their freshman year, meeting once a month.

Program Benefits

  • Get to know CU Boulder through an intensive introductory four-week summer residential academic “bridge” program that allows students to learn about the many resources available to help them transition to campus and succeed at the university. 
  • Earn six credit hours through the following two courses: LEAD 1000 and WRTG 1150, with tuition paid by the program. Also, gain an understanding of academic success, financial literacy, self-development, and resources on campus through the non-credit CU 101 and health classes. 
  • Participate in a cohort experience that allows students to build a close-knit peer community. 
  • Have access to a Peer Mentor Leader who will help Bridge students adjust to the environment of CU Boulder 
  • Engage and participate in a CU Leadership, Excellence, Achievement, Diversity (LEAD) Alliance program while attending CU Boulder to receive a renewable scholarship for up to five years.
  • Offer opportunities to engage in Academic and Community/Leadership Development Activities, Professional and Career Development.

1-day Precollege Bridge Program

​Those students who did not have the opportunity to join the summer bridge scholars program students will be required to attend a 1-day Bridge Scholars Program that provides a chance to gain valuable insights into the program, academic expectations, available resources, and an opportunity to connect with faculty and fellow participants and assist students in their transitioning into the University of Colorado Boulder. For more information about the 1-day Bridge Scholars Program, please contact the Bridge Scholars Team at precollegebridge@colorado.edu.

Program Eligibility 

  • Successfully completed a precollegiate program at any of the University of Colorado campuses, the University of Colorado Upward Bound program or any of the university’s statewide partner programs
  • Incoming freshman confirmed to University of Colorado Boulder.
  • Must continue participation in the Bridge Scholars Program which also includes participation in a CU LEAD Alliance program to maintain scholarship eligibility. 
    Or
  • Must continue participation in the Bridge Scholars Program to maintain scholarship eligibility.