Summer Start

Summer Start courses offer smaller class sizes, are taught by faculty with a special interest in students transitioning to NC State, and provide easier accessibility to academic and tutorial support.

You may enroll in up to 8 credit hours with courses selected through careful planning with advisors in your academic college. Placement test scores, transfer credits, AP exam credits, SAT scores, your personal preference and other academic information will be taken into consideration by advisors when making recommendations for your courses.

Note: You should take the Math Placement Test and Chemistry Placement Exams as soon as possible to receive appropriate summer course recommendations. Information about the placement tests can be found by visiting the Placement test website.

One great course option to consider when speaking with your advisor is USC 100: Transition to a Diverse Community. This one-credit hour course is aimed specifically towards assisting students prepare for life on campus, including the development of personal and academic skills needed for success as a NC State student.

A unique aspect of Summer Start is the opportunity to get to know the campus and local community through various co-curricular programs. These programs offer students a small and supportive community to make crucial relationships with faculty, staff, and fellow new students while gaining a head start building your support network with people who have a particular interest in helping you succeed.

Summer Start is excited to partner with University Housing to offer summer on-campus housing to program participants to maximize their campus experience. The residential experience can provide you with a supportive environment that encourages a sense of community to promote studying, engagement, and well-being.

As part of the first-year live on requirement, First-year students are required to live on-campus for the summer, unless they complete an appeal with University Housing and you can learn more by visiting the Summer Start housing website.

What advantages does a summer start provide in terms of campus connection?
It helps students build a connection to campus and acclimate before the more rigorous fall semester starts.

What unique experience does a smaller summer program offer to new college students?
It allows students to experience campus life on a smaller scale, making the transition to a larger college environment less daunting. Students participating in Summer Start also are assigned a Summer Start mentor throughout their time in the program who they’re able to meet with each week for quick check-ins and get any questions they need answered.

How can having a mentor during the summer start impact a student’s experience?
Their mentor can provide guidance, support, and a sense of familiarity, making the transition smoother as they’re getting ready to dive into the fall semester.

Are Spring Connect students able to participate in Summer Start?
Yes! Spring Connect students have the opportunity to participate in Summer Start. Please note that Spring Connect students are not eligible for financial aid since they were admitted and confirmed for the following Spring semester.

What types of activities are available to students during Summer Start?
Students can participate in academic workshops hosted by Summer Start Mentors, a variety of programs hosted by various offices and departments on campus and exciting excursions that include bowling, baseball games and other events designed to ease their transition into college.

Is the Welcome Program required?
Yes. All students must plan to attend the Welcome Program on Wednesday, June 18 from 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. This program is mandatory for all students participating in Summer Start.