The purpose of this page is to help students find and apply for various fly-in programs for Fall 2026.
What Are Fly-In Programs?
Fly-in programs are short, often overnight, visits to a college or university that are fully funded by the institution. These programs cover travel expenses, lodging, meals, and sometimes even provide a stipend for extra costs. The goal of these programs is to give prospective students a comprehensive view of the academic, social, and cultural environment of that college or university.
The Benefits of Fly-In Programs
There are a variety benefits to participating in a fly-in program. Firstly, students get the opportunity to get an immersive college-like experience. They offer students a place to experience the campus atmosphere, attend classes, meet current student and faculty, and participate in various activities. This experience can help students in the future to make an informed decision about whether that college or university is a good fit.
Personal Experience: Fly-in programs offer students a place to experience the campus atmosphere, attend classes, meet current student and faculty, and participate in various activities. This experience can help students in the future to make an informed decision about whether that college or university is a good fit.
Access and Opportunity: For many students, especially those from low-income families or rural areas, visiting a college campus can be financially challenging. Fly-in programs remove this barrier by covering the costs associated with the visit.
Support and Resources: Fly-in programs often include application and financial aid workshops and information sessions to help prepare you for the college application process. This can be particularly beneficial for first-generation college students who may not have access to this information elsewhere.
Building Connections: Participants of these programs have the chance to meet other prospective students, current students, and faculty. These connections are not only helpful throughout the application process but can be beneficial as you start your college journey.
Source: https://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/mycoalition-counselor-all/fly-in-programs-visits
ONLY for Rising Seniors
Note:
The following programs are organized by due date
Their application links are in BLUE.
Be intentional about where you apply, ensure you've checked the requirements + program dates
Admissions officers do see it negitely if a student applies to just everything and then rejects
Consistently check your email for messages from the college/university
Destination: Denison : FREE
"Destination: Denison (DDU) is an all-expenses-paid campus experience for rising high school seniors ready to explore what a Denison education can do for them. We believe education should challenge and support students in equal measure. DDU brings that belief into action through a program centered on connection, exploration, and possibility!"
APP DUE: AUG. 17th
Program Dates: October 4-6, 2026
Cost: FREE
Location: Denison University - Granville, Ohio
Preview Pitzer : FREE
"The Preview Pitzer program is a program designed for high school seniors attending school in the United States that are either first-generation college students and/or from lower-income socioeconomic backgrounds. This program allows participating students to visit Pitzer on an all-expenses paid multi-day trip to campus."
APP DUE: AUG. 21st
Program Dates: October 12-14, 2026
Cost: FREE
Location: Pitzer College - Claremont, CA
ElonYOU : FREE
"Prospective students will have the opportunity to visit Elon University’s different student life centers, participate in an academic activity and experience an overnight stay in one of our eight residential neighborhoods. On the second day, attendees will participate in our Fall Open House"
APP DUE: AUG. 31st
Program Dates: October 23-24, 2026
Cost: FREE (AND up to $250 to support a guest attending with them)
Location: Elon University is a private university in Elon, North Carolina
Perspectives Overnight Program : FREE
Perspectives Overnight Program
"Participants will join us for an Open House weekend while staying overnight at a local hotel with their guest. They will have the opportunity to connect with current students on campus, experience campus life firsthand, and gain a deeper understanding of the vibrant and supportive Holy Cross. Parents and guardians will have their own programming to learn about the college and how best to support you through your college search and transition."
APP DUE: Sept. 16th
Program Dates: November 7-9, 2026
Cost: If the cost of traveling to campus would be a burden to you and your family, you can request travel assistance through the registration form that will cover air, train, or bus fare and a hotel stay for you and your guardian.
Location: College of the Holy Cross - Worcester, Massachusetts