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.

  1. Amherst College: Access to Amherst
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 9%
    Dates of Program: September 27-29, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 11, 2025

  2. Bates College: The Prologue to Bates Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 13%
    Dates of Program: October 12 - 14, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 8, 2025

  3. Bowdoin College: The Explore Bowdoin Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 7%
    Dates of Program:
    Explore 1: September 18-20, 2025
    Explore 2: October 16-18, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 12, 2025

  4. Claremont McKenna College: Fall Preview Fly-In Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 9.6%
    Dates of Program: October 5-7, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 10, 2025

  5. Dartmouth College: Indigenous Fly-In Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 5.4%
    Dates of Program: October 12-15, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: July 21, 2025

  6. Davidson College: The Access Davidson Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 13.4%
    Dates of Program: September 14-16, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 1, 2025

  7. Emory University: Emory LEADs Experience
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 11%
    Dates of Program: October 17-19, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 11, 2025

  8.  Haverford College: Have-A-Look
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 12.4%
    Dates of Program: October 26-28, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 18, 2025

  9.  Middlebury College: Middlebury Dimensions
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 12%
    Dates of Program: October 20-22, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: September 6, 2025

  10.  Pomona College: Perspectives on Pomona (POP)
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 7%
    Dates of Program: October 5-7, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 11, 2025

  11.  Swarthmore College: The Discover Swarthmore Program
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 7%
    Dates of Program: Fall 2025
    Session 1: September 25-27, 2025
    Session 2: October 23-25, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: July 7, 2025

  12. Tufts University: The Voices of Tufts
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 11.5%
    Dates of In-Person Program: October 19-20, 2025
    Dates of Online Program: October 5, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: July 21, 2025

  13.  Williams College: Windows on Williams (WOW)
    Admissions Acceptance Rate: 10%
    Dates of Program: September 28-30, 2025
    Deadline to Apply: August 1, 2025

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.

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