Colleges Offering Fly-In Programs
Do you want to learn more about different colleges? Exploring a college campus firsthand offers invaluable insights into different academic and extracurricular programs to help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Many universities offer fly-in programs to support students with a fully-funded college visit!
What is a fly-in program?
A fly-in program is an initiative by colleges to bring prospective students to their campuses for a brief visit, typically a couple of days.
These programs cover travel expenses, accommodations, and meals, allowing students to explore the campus, attend classes, meet faculty and current students, and get a genuine feel for the college environment. Some programs are offered virtually.
Will I qualify for a fly-in program?
Fly-in programs are often competitive to join. To qualify, you may need to meet specific criteria. These programs typically prioritize rising high school seniors who are first-generation college students, come from low-income families, or who will offer a unique perspective on campus. Each program has its unique set of requirements and deadlines, so it's crucial to review the specific eligibility criteria for each one to determine if you qualify.
How do I apply for a fly-in program?
Typically, applicants must provide their GPA, ACT/SAT scores, an essay, and sometimes a letter of recommendation. To make the most of your experience, it’s important to research the school's offerings, opportunities, and admissions process beforehand. Spots are limited in these programs, and unfortunately, colleges are often unable to accept everyone who applies.
What universities offer fly-in programs?
Below is a list of some of the colleges that offer fly-in programs. This is not an exhaustive list, and in recent years, some colleges and universities have moved away from fly-in programs. If you are interested in a college that is not on the list, check with their admissions office about whether they offer a similar opportunity to visit.
Amherst College: Access to Amherst
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 9%Dates of Program: September 26-28, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 10, 2026
Bates College: The Prologue to Bates Program
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 15%Dates of Program: October 11-13, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 7, 2026
Bowdoin College: The Explore Bowdoin Program
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 6.8%
Dates of Program:
Explore 1: September 17-19, 2026
Explore 2: October 22-24, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 11, 2026Claremont McKenna College: Fall Preview Fly-In Program
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 10%Dates of Program: October 11-13, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 9, 2026
Dartmouth College: Indigenous Fly-In Program
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 5.8%Dates of Program: October 11-14, 2026
Deadline to Apply: July 13, 2026
Emory University: Emory LEADs Experience
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 10%Dates of Program: October 1-3, 2026
Deadline to Apply: Jul 31, 2026
Haverford College: Have-A-Look
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 12%Dates of Program: October 25-27, 2026
Deadline to Apply: Aug 17, 2026
Middlebury College: Middlebury Dimensions
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 11%Dates of Program: October 11-13, 2026
Deadline to Apply: September 4, 2026
Pomona College: Perspectives on Pomona (POP)
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 7%Dates of Program: October 4-6, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 10, 2026
Swarthmore College: The Discover Swarthmore Program
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 7%
Dates of Program:
Session 1: September 24-26, 2026
Session 2: October 22-24, 2026
Deadline to Apply: July 7, 2026Tufts University: The Voices of Tufts
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 10.8%Dates of In-Person Program: October 18, 2026
Dates of Online Program: September 27, 2026
Deadline to Apply: July 27, 2026
Williams College: Windows on Williams (WOW)
Admissions Acceptance Rate: 8%Dates of Program: October 4-6, 2026
Deadline to Apply: August 1, 2026
It is worth exploring fly-in programs because they offer an incredible opportunity for you to explore campuses without the financial burden. By taking advantage of these programs, you can make a more informed decision about your higher education path, introducing you to different college campuses and helping to ensure that the college you choose aligns with your academic goals, personal values, and overall aspirations. Best of luck!
If you have questions or would like to learn more about college admissions, please visit Excelsioradmissions.com or click here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation to learn how I can help with your college admissions process.
