50 College Fly-In Programs and Deadlines for the Class of 2027
- 5 days ago
- 19 min read
By Krystle DiCristofalo
Widener Library, Harvard University. Photographed by Krystle DiCristofalo.
Graduating high school in 2027? It may be summer, the time when school ends and college worries seem far away, but think again: now is the time to apply for fly-in programs, a unique opportunity to explore the campuses of your dreams. Whether you're already busy building your college list or you're just starting to think about your reaches, matches, and safeties, college fly-in and diversity programs are a great way to learn about a campus. Many colleges offer high school seniors, especially but not limited to students of color, the opportunity to visit for free over a few days in the fall. Fly-in programs are competitive to apply to, but not to worry - we've got your back. We've compiled a comprehensive list below, featuring a whopping 50 colleges offering fly-in programs, complete with their dates and application deadlines.
Read on to find the perfect fly-in program for you, and don't hesitate to reach out at info@myivyeducation.org for help applying!
This post will be updated as more information about fly-in program dates and deadlines becomes available.
DEADLINE: August 10, 2026
DATES: September 26-28, 2026
"As part of Amherst College's commitment to diversity, the Office of Admission will be hosting Access to Amherst (A2A) in the fall to introduce prospective applicants to Amherst's campus, student body, faculty, and classes. A2A is available to all prospective rising high school seniors who reside in the U.S., regardless of citizenship (non-US citizens who reside in the US, including undocumented students, are welcome to apply). The programming centers the experience of students from marginalized communities – such as African-American, Hispanic/Latinx American, Native American, and Asian-American students, first-generation students, students from families with limited financial resources, rural, urban Title I schools, and those who may not be able to visit campus on their own. A2A offers educational sessions on selective admission, affordability, liberal arts, and success in college. Should you have an interest in attending, we encourage you to apply no matter your demographic or economic background."
DEADLINE: July 31, 2026
DATES: September 27-28
"At Babson College, we believe that entrepreneurial leadership is fostered by our diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. Access Babson will present these initiatives. Grab a sleeping bag and toothbrush—we hope you will join us overnight on campus for the opportunity to stay with a current student in a residence hall and participate in many other sessions.
We’re excited to provide you with a deep understanding of the Babson experience. We’ll help you develop a greater understanding of Babson’s approach to inclusion and belonging through conversations with members of our community including “real talk” sessions with current student leaders."
DEADLINE: July 10 and August 8, 2026
DATES: September 13-October 19, 2026
"Barnard Bound provides a taste of Barnard College for promising students who are current high school seniors, attending school in the U.S., and self-identify as students of color (which we define as individuals from Black/African-American, Hispanic/Latina, American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian, Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian, bi- and multi-racial backgrounds). Barnard Bound features panels, presentations, and conversations with current students, faculty, and staff, all centered on the unique lens of what it means to be a first‑generation/low‑income student in college. Participants also gain access to virtual workshops throughout the fall to deepen their understanding of Barnard and the application process. All selected Barnard Bound attendees will participate in weekly virtual programming (September 13–October 19). A select cohort among the Barnard Bound attendees will be chosen for a special fully-funded on-campus experience in New York City in October."
DEADLINE: August 7, 2026
DATES: October 11-13, 2026
"At Bates, we value the diversity of persons and perspectives, and engage in the transformative power of our differences. Our commitment to equity and inclusion is the guiding principle behind Prologue to Bates, a program geared towards students entering their senior year who express interest in being a part of our inclusive and pluralistic community. All rising seniors who attend school in the U.S. and Puerto Rico are welcomed to apply, especially students who are first-generation-to-college, low-income, and historically excluded from higher education."
DEADLINE: August 11, 2026
DATES: September 17-19, 2026 OR October 22-24, 2026
"Stay with students, attend classes, meet professors, eat in the dining halls, explore downtown Brunswick, check out student clubs and organizations—and learn about the college admissions process and financial aid along the way. Interested high school seniors or other students (US citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented/DACA students living in the US) intending to enter college in Fall 2027 are welcome to apply. Please note that preference is given to applicants from lower income backgrounds, students who will be the first in their families to attend college, and/or who come from diverse backgrounds or rural areas."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Founded on the principles of pluralism and inclusion, Brandeis University is a place where exceptional young minds from diverse backgrounds come together to form a unique and vibrant campus community. Our annual Students Exploring and Embracing Diversity (SEED) program celebrates multiculturalism and social justice at our dynamic university. SEED attendees will stay on campus in residence halls with student hosts as a part of the SEED program. Full travel scholarships are provided to cover the cost of transportation to and from Brandeis, and all meals are provided."
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"If you are a high school senior or a prospective transfer student and you need to travel to Rhode Island by plane, train, or bus to visit Bryant, we will reimburse you for half the cost of your ticket (up to $250). If you enroll as a full-time student at Bryant, you’ll receive the remainder of your travel fare up to a total of $500. Once you have registered for an event and visit date on the event calendar, please submit the form below and a member of the admission team will assist you in planning your visit."
DEADLINE: July 15, 2026
DATES: September 26-28, 2026
"We know that a campus visit can be an important factor for students navigating the college search process, but we also recognize that the cost of visiting colleges can be a barrier for many students. Our Lantern Scholars fly-in program is designed to support rising high school seniors from first-generation and limited-income backgrounds to visit campus, stay in residence halls, attend classes, and explore student life at a liberal arts women’s college."
DEADLINE: June 8, 2026
DATES: October 1-3, 2026
"To be eligible, you must:
Be a high school senior from a traditionally underrepresented group, including but not limited to African American, Alaksa Native, Asian American, biracial/multiracial, Latinx, Native American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, first-generation, religiously diverse and/or LGBTQIA+.
Be enrolled in an academically rigorous program of study with a minimum unweighted grade point average of 3.5."
DEADLINE: August 10, 2026
DATES: October 11-12, 2026
"As part of this commitment to diversity, we host several programs for traditionally underrepresented students. The Taste of Carleton (TOC) program offers students a chance to get just that — a taste of Carleton College! The selection committee will give priority to students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. We particularly encourage students of color, first-generation college students, and low-income students to apply."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Diversity Overnight is designed for smart and curious high school seniors from diverse backgrounds. We want to give you an in-depth look at the opportunities available to Case Western Reserve University students. CWRU will cover transportation costs and assist with arrangements.
You will arrive on Sunday and stay overnight in a local hotel with other program participants. You will have the opportunity to explore our campus located in the heart of Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood.
The program rolls into our Fall Open House, where you will learn more about how our students contribute to classroom discussions, participate in meaningful extracurricular activities and engage in hands-on learning."
DEADLINE: August 9, 2026
DATES: October 11-13, 2026
"In keeping with Claremont McKenna College’s Commitment to diversity and inclusion, the Office of Admission will host CMC’s Fall Preview Program for students from historically underrepresented communities - first generation Americans, first generation to college, students of color, low-income students and students from rural communities - who demonstrate academic excellence and genuine interest in exploring all that CMC has to offer."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Colgate in Focus (CIF) provides prospective students the opportunity to engage with current students, faculty, and staff on a range of topics for a deeper understanding of diversity in Colgate's student experience. CIF will be held in two parts this year. The first will be a series of online summer webinars that cover topics ranging from Colgate’s surrounding area and extracurricular opportunities, to succeeding as a student of color in a liberal arts environment. The second part will be a trip to Colgate for an on-campus CIF program, paid for by the university, for you and 1 parent or guardian. See below for more details."
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"A campus visit is the best way to get to know The College of Idaho, and our fly-in reimbursement program makes it easy. Here's how it works:
The College will reimburse the cost of your plane ticket up to $250.
This program does not cover the cost of fuel, cars or anything with personal mileage, but the College will cover any public transportation such as commercial buses, trains or planes.
Recruited athletes are not eligible for this program.
This form must be submitted within two weeks after your visit."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"The Fall Fly-In is a selective, multi-day program for prospective students to experience COA firsthand. You’ll attend classes, enjoy meals in our dining hall, and get to know campus, Bar Harbor, and Acadia National Park. We can’t wait to meet you!
We welcome applications from all intellectually curious high school seniors attending school in the US, particularly those from minoritized backgrounds and identities, including people of color, first-generation college students, and those from low-income households."
DEADLINE: July 6, 2026 for September Programming, September 16, 2026 for November Programming
DATES: September 26-28, 2026 OR November 7-9, 2026
"The Perspectives Overnight Program is for prospective high school seniors who may identify as a first-generation college student, student of color, lower-socioeconomic student, or an international student. Through the Perspectives program, we aim to provide space for students to ask honest questions, build genuine connections, and gain valuable insight into the admission process and campus community here at College of the Holy Cross."
DEADLINE: July 13, 2026
DATES: October 3-5, 2026
"Experience Colorado College is open to high school seniors (class of 2027) and gap year students residing in the United States. To apply for this program, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
Self-identify as a student of color (Black, Indigenous, Asian, and/or Latinx)
Eligible for the Pell Grant
Qualify for Free/Reduced Lunch
DACA or undocumented student completing secondary (high) school in the U.S.
Identify as a First-Generation college student (neither parent obtained a bachelor's degree)"
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Columbia Engineering and Columbia Undergraduate Admissions are proud to host the Engineering Preview at Columbia each fall. The Engineering Preview at Columbia (EPC) is a selective, three-day, two-night program for students interested in learning more about Columbia Engineering's unique educational experience. EPC is designed to serve students who may have had less formal exposure to engineering. This fully funded experience includes hotel and travel arrangements for students and one parent/guardian to learn more about Columbia Engineering, explore engineering opportunities in New York and participate in college admissions workshops."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Each fall, we host Explore, a special program for high school seniors of underrepresented backgrounds, as well as those committed to diversity and social justice. During Explore, you'll meet current students, faculty and staff who can share what it's like to be a student of color at Conn and all the resources that are available on campus that make our community strong."
DEADLINE: July 13, 2026
DATES: October 11-14, 2026
"Dartmouth's Indigenous Fly-In (IFI) program is designed to give participants an in-person experience of daily college life at Dartmouth. Participants will learn about Dartmouth's Indigenous community and its resources, as well as college admissions and financial aid processes. IFI is open to rising seniors living and attending a high school in the U.S., who identify as Indigenous themselves, or have demonstrated an interest in the Indigenous community and/or Dartmouth's Native American and Indigenous Studies Department."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Access Davidson is a selective college visit program designed for high school seniors from historically excluded racial and ethnic groups, those who are first in their family to attend college and students from rural or low-income backgrounds.
The program is open to students living and attending high school in the United States and Puerto Rico. Students who have not been on an official visit to campus will be prioritized for participation."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Discover Diversity at Dickinson is an overnight fly-in program designed for promising high-school seniors from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to those who self-identify as students of color, LGBTQIA+, those who will be the first in their family to attend college, religiously diverse and those attending schools in rural communities. This distinctive opportunity will allow you to engage with Dickinson's dynamic community through classroom experiences, breakout sessions and firsthand accounts from our current students, designed to speak to the Dickinson experience and celebrate its true diversity."
DEADLINE: July 31
DATES: October 1-3
"The Emory Leadership, Enrichment, Advocacy, and Discovery (LEADs) Experience offers resources to support high school seniors as they begin the college application process and explore their leadership potential beyond the classroom. LEADs also includes an in-person Leadership Retreat in late September. LEADs is designed to support the recruitment of talented, high-achieving high school seniors who are either first-generation college students and/or from a rural or lower socioeconomic background, and/or students who do not have the means to visit campus."tulan
DEADLINE: July 7, 2026
DATES: September 27-28, 2026
"The Home at Hamilton fly-in program is a two-day campus experience designed for high-achieving high school seniors (students who intend to begin college in Fall 2027) in the U.S. and Puerto Rico who could not otherwise afford to visit Hamilton. Admission to the program is selective, and students who have not already visited campus and are first-generation to college or from families with limited financial resources will be given preference."
DEADLINE: August 2, 2026
DATES: September 13-15, 2026, OR October 25-27, 2026
"The Future Achievers in Science and Technology (FAST) is our all-expenses-paid overnight fly-in program for high-achieving high school seniors. The program provides high-achieving, college-bound high school seniors with an opportunity to interact with Harvey Mudd students, professors and other college-bound students who share a passion for the STEM fields. The program dates are still TBD but we anticipate the program to take place in September and October."
DEADLINE: August 17, 2026
DATES: October 25-27, 2026
"During the program, participants will have the opportunity to interact with faculty and administrators, learn about diversity and inclusion on campus, and explore Haverford further. Participants will also get the chance to engage in open dialogue with current Haverford students and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for how we choose to steward our community at Haverford. All Have-A-Look participants will be able to complete an admission interview as a part of the program. This program is for students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in higher education, including students who identify as BIPOC, first generation to college, and/or low-income. Interested high school seniors (U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and undocumented/DACA students living in the United States) are welcome to apply. Haverford will provide need-based travel scholarships for Have-A-Look participants."
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"Hopkins Senior Visit Days are a chance for high school seniors to visit our Homewood campus, learn about the Hopkins culture and community, as well as make an informed application decision. You’ll have the opportunity to sit in on classes, take a tour of campus, learn about our student resources, and more!"
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Lehigh University values a diverse, inclusive and vibrant campus community, and we believe the best way for a student to learn whether a college or university is a good fit is by spending time on campus. This is why we offer select high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds the opportunity to immerse themselves in life at Lehigh for two days and one night through our culturally based overnight program, the Diversity Achievers Program (DAP)."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"At the College’s expense, meet current students and faculty, participate in leadership development activities, sit in on classes, spend two nights in a residence hall, try the food, have an admissions interview, visit Portland, and experience life at Lewis & Clark College firsthand. Lewis & Clark College will cover the cost for transportation, lodging, and meals."
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"We understand the geographic distance and cost of travel make it impractical for most international students and U.S. students living abroad to visit our beautiful campus. However, we believe a campus visit is the best way to experience first-hand the unique Luther atmosphere and discover how Luther is different. Because of this, if you decide to see the campus and meet Luther students and faculty in person, we can help you offset some of the travel expenses with our Fly-In Reimbursement Program."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: October 18-19, October 25-26, November 8-9, OR November 15-16, 2026
"Miami University is proud to present the Bridges Program, which was founded 40 years ago by Black students who wanted a Miami degree to be more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds and to ensure that their experiences here would be rewarding. The Bridges Program is an engaging experience that provides an inside look at Miami University to prospective students. This program invites high-achieving high school seniors from historically underrepresented populations, as well as students who have a commitment to promoting a deeper understanding of and appreciation for diversity, to engage with our current students, faculty, and staff. The program attracts students who represent various diverse identities — racial/ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity, and socioeconomic."
DEADLINE: September 4, 2026
DATES: October 11-13, 2026
"Discover Middlebury is our annual “fly-in” program for students who are traditionally underrepresented in higher education. We will offer a window into student and academic life on campus by including opportunities to engage with other participants, current students, alumni, faculty, and staff. We invite applications from domestic students from traditionally underrepresented groups, who are also intellectually motivated and would like to pursue higher education at a small liberal arts and sciences college.
Students in the U.S. who are undocumented or have DACA status are welcome to apply. Unfortunately, international students or those living outside of the U.S. are not eligible to apply."
DEADLINE: August 1, 2026
DATES: October 4-6, 2026
"The Weekend Immersion in Science & Engineering program is completely free, including the cost of transportation to and from MIT. We strongly encourage students from underrepresented and/or underserved backgrounds to apply, including Black, Latinx, and Native students, as well as students who come from low socioeconomic means, rural or predominantly minority high schools, or who might be the first in their family to attend college."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"This is a selective program that seeks students serious about Oberlin and their education. High school seniors accepted to the in-person program will participate in an all-expenses-paid trip to campus which includes a host of experiences: a campus tour; class visits; admissions and financial aid workshops; and interactive activities with current students, faculty, and staff. We will also be offering a virtual option in December. We encourage applications from students with diverse backgrounds. To be eligible for the program, a student must be from at least ONE of the following backgrounds:
American Indian or Alaska Native
Asian American
Black or African American
Hispanic/Latino(a)
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
Low-income
First generation in your family to attend college
Participants must also be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or undocumented student currently residing in the U.S. Students applying via Early Decision, to the Posse Scholars Program, or as a QuestBridge Match Scholar to another institution are NOT eligible to attend MVP."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"For more than 20 years, Occidental has hosted fall and spring multicultural programs. The Tiger Access Program (TAP), formerly known as the Multicultural Visit Program (MVP), introduces traditionally underrepresented, first-generation and/or low-income students to Oxy's academic and residential community. Historically, the College pays travel expenses for high school seniors interested in Oxy to visit campus and witness firsthand what makes us unique. COVID-19 restrictions have changed our ability to offer transportation to campus, but we are committed to creating a personalized and informative experience for underrepresented students considering Occidental College."
DEADLINE: August 21, 2026
DATES: October 12-14, 2026
"Pitzer College seeks to enroll students whose experiences offer varying perspectives on living and learning in our complex world. In order to accomplish this, we offer this program to encourage students to connect and enroll at Pitzer College.
Who is eligible?
High school seniors attending school in the United States that are either first-generation college students and/or from lower-income socioeconomic backgrounds."
DEADLINE: August 10, 2026
DATES: October 4-6, 2026
"While the Fall POP program is open to all eligible high school seniors (U.S. citizens, undocumented/DACA students, and Permanent Residents), the programming is focused on furthering the academic journey of students who come from underrepresented groups, are first-generation or low-income, and whose identities are in other marginalized communities."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"The Senior Scholars Program is a yearlong, three-part engagement with our community. The program begins with a virtual introduction to campus that is open to all Senior Scholars applicants. Students who are admitted to Reed will then meet campus leaders and faculty during the second part of the program and receive a partially- or fully-funded travel voucher to visit Reed’s campus in the spring.
Senior Scholars is designed to answer the unique questions posed by underrepresented students and students of color. High-achieving high school seniors will learn about life at Reed and create lasting connections with current students and faculty."
DEADLINE: August 3, 2026 (application opens)
DATES: October 16-17, 2026 OR November 6-7, 2026
"The Women of Distinction Program for high school seniors highlights opportunities offered by Smith College for African American, Asian American, Latin American, Native American, and first generation college students. The program provides connection with current Smith students, faculty, and other community members. Participants will explore Smith through a series of panels and workshops on academics and student life. The Women of Distinction Program is fully funded: housing, meals, and transportation to and from campus are included."
DEADLINE: July 7, 2026
DATES: September 24-26, 2026, OR October 22-24, 2026
"Discover Swarthmore, held each fall, is our all-expenses-paid overnight fly-in program for high-achieving high school seniors. The Admissions Office pays for all transportation, meals, and on-campus housing expenses for students selected to attend one of these programs. Participants experience Swarthmore firsthand as they attend classes, stay with current students in our residence halls, eat in the dining hall, and go to campus events. Prospective students hear from faculty, staff, alumni, and current students through a series of panel discussions and informal conversations."
DEADLINE: July 27, 2026
DATES: September 27, 2026 (virtual) OR October 18, 2026 (in-person)
"Any high school senior who attends school in the United States is eligible to apply to Voices. While Voices has traditionally attracted participants from underrepresented backgrounds – including but not limited to students of color, first-generation college-bound students, LGBTQIA+ students, students from low-income backgrounds, students with disabilities, and students from rural communities – any student interested in learning about diversity and community at Tufts is invited to apply. We seek primarily to invite students who are kind, collaborative, civically-engaged, and interested in creating a more inclusive world."
42. Tulane University - Louisiana Campus Preview Days
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"Louisiana Campus Preview Days are held each spring for high school sophomores and juniors, and each fall for high school juniors and seniors. Each day includes an informational overview, student panels, specific information sessions, and a campus tour."
DEADLINE: TBD
DATES: TBD
"Getting To Know Union (GTKU) is a pre-college overnight experience that occurs in the fall each year. This program is designed for high school seniors from diverse cultural backgrounds to experience all that Union has to offer. Prospective students will have the chance to experience what life is like for students at Union as well as the opportunity to interact with current students and professors, attend classes, eat in our dining halls and explore campus."
DEADLINE: Rolling
DATES: Multiple
"Students interested in attending UE may take advantage of our fly-in reimbursement program. This program provides a one-time reimbursement of up to $500* for domestic high school seniors and transfer students (entering UE in the upcoming academic year) only. UE will reimburse you for half of your plane ticket, up to $250, following a campus visit. If you then decide to enroll, your account will be credited for the other half, up to a total of $500. Students from Alaska and Hawaii are eligible for a total of $600."
45. University of Rochester - Meliora Visit Program
DEADLINE: September 14, 2026
DATES: October 22-24, 2026
"University of Rochester’s Multicultural Visitation Program (MVP) brings together prospective students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds and allows them to experience Rochester on a more personal level. Current high school seniors attending school in the United States are invited to apply."
DEADLINE: October 2, 2026
DATES: November 1-3, 2026
"Discovering UVM (DUVM) is an overnight visit program designed to expand college access. Hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, DUVM provides students who may face barriers to higher education with an immersive opportunity to experience UVM’s academic environment and explore the many ways students build community on campus."
47. Washington and Lee University - PATH to W&L
DEADLINE: August 2, 2026
DATES: September 20-22, 2026, OR September 27-29, 2026
"This all-expenses-paid visit program is designed for high-achieving students who have excelled in their communities and are preparing for college with limited support or access to resources. PATH offers a chance to take the next step with guidance, connection, and a firsthand look at life at Washington and Lee University, where small classes, strong mentorship, and a powerful financial aid model are designed to help you thrive."
DEADLINE: August 1, 2026, OR September 1, 2026
DATES: October 17, 2026
"Access the Wellesley Experience (AWE) is our on-campus college access program. AWE is a day-long immersive experience centering prospective students who may be first generation, low income, or from communities who have been historically excluded from higher education. However, any high school senior living in or attending school in New England is welcome to apply to AWE!"
DEADLINE: August 3, 2026
DATES: October 4-6, 2026
"Calling all WesExplorers! This Fall, discover the impact of Wesleyan’s distinctive educational experience when you connect with our vibrant, diverse community. The WesExplore Fly-In program gives high school seniors from historically underrepresented backgrounds* the opportunity to visit campus for free. Eligible students include those who identify as Black/African-American; Hispanic/Latinx; Asian-American; American Indian, Native Alaskan, and/or Pacific Islander, as well as first-generation college students and/or those from families with limited financial resources. Undocumented students are also welcome. Please note that we are unable to support international fly-ins."
DEADLINE: August 1, 2026
DATES: October 4-6, 2026
"Windows on Williams (WOW) gives high school seniors the opportunity to spend three all-expenses-paid days at Williams. WOW is a selective program open to high school students in the U.S. and Puerto Rico; preference is given to high-achieving students who couldn’t otherwise afford to visit Williams.
WOW participants stay in dorms with current students, attend classes, meet with professors and learn about our admission process and extraordinary financial aid program."
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