Summer Bridge Academy

SSU students at quad space

The Center for Academic Excellence offers the Summer Bridge Academy (SBA) as an alternative admissions program, to aid high school graduates in achieving academic success in college. We believe that all students should master basic academic skills to achieve their educational goals. Some students need to develop these skills before enrolling in college and therefore are required to participate in the SBA. SBA is designed to give students the tools and resources they need to be successful at Salem State University throughout their academic careers.

The Summer Bridge Academy provides program students opportunities to demonstrate achievement and/or progress in the development of the three areas below.

  • Academic Skills

    Student and Professor studying

    Academic Skills

    This competency focuses on a student’s ability to develop and expand upon appropriate academic behaviors as well as the ability to incorporate outside experiences into the academic environment. 

    Identify educational and personal goals, understand individual learning style, refine writing skills, develop critical research skills essential for college success, acquire a broad oral communication competency, enhance critical thinking, develop and foster academic-confidence, self-determination, and self-esteem.

  • Student Development

    Students hanging out

    Student Development

    This competency focuses on a student’s ability to develop and expand upon varying aspects of identity development.  The way in which students tackle accountability and responsibility and display appropriate follow through is highlighted throughout this area. Develop meaningful purpose, understand basic SSU system navigation, develop basic time management, understand basic financial literacy, demonstrate an appreciation for various forms of expression from diverse perspectives, develop self-advocacy skills within the university setting and career exploration.

  • Personal Development

    Carousel Students

    Personal Development

    This competency focuses on a students ability to understand and appreciate that they are part of a larger community.  A student assumes responsibilities to the community and the community may have standards the student must uphold to continue to be part of said community. 

    Establish healthy relationships and boundaries with peers, participate in opportunities to develop cultural capital, learn to effectively listen to the point of view of others, and participate in volunteer activities.

Summer Bridge Academy Applicant Information

Admissions Criteria

Applicants are considered for admission to SBA using the following criteria: 

  • High School GPA: minimum 2.0 

  • SAT Scores (if submitted): minimum 700 combined in Critical Reading and Math with each component at least a 300 or higher 

  • ACT Scores (if submitted): 14 or higher 

  • Personal Statement answering the question:  Why should I be considered for the Summer Bridge Academy? 

  • Personal Interview, if deemed necessary 

First-time college students (have not attended another college, aside from Dual Enrollment)

Students who attend and successfully complete the Summer Bridge Academy are admitted to Salem State University and can begin classes in the Fall. 

Cost

The cost of SBA is generally covered with the exception of an enrollment deposit by financial aid.  The costs cover academic and development courses, technology for access to online learning, books, academic support and workshops. The total cost for 2022 SBA is $3,200.

Financial Aid

  • For the summer semester (SBA):  You will be notified about financial aid for the SBA starting in mid-June and only if your summer financial aid file is complete. Please note that students requesting financial aid for the SBA must fill out the 2021-2022 FAFSA as well as the 2022-2023 FAFSA. 

  • For Fall:  If you have completed your 2022-2023 FAFSA, financial aid award letters are typically processed starting in early February and then 1-3 times per month after that. Fall financial aid is awarded to students who have been accepted to the Summer Bridge Academy. After May 1st, students with incomplete financial aid files (To-Do lists) will not be awarded until accepted to SBA and their financial aid file is complete and reviewed. 

  • Did financial aid get all my information? How much money will I get? 
    Applicants have a financial aid To-Do list on Navigator that shows what (if anything) is required to complete your financial aid file. You should check your to-do list frequently, even after you turn in all requested item. Once you turn in a requested item it takes 1-3 days for it to drop off your to-do list.   Be sure to click on the Info button above each to-do item for additional directions and information. 

    Students with complete summer financial aid files will be awarded up to the cost of the summer program (not including the required deposit). Awards are based on the FAFSA and can contain a combination of Pell Grant (if eligible) and/or Federal Stafford Loans 

What to expect during the 6-week Summer Bridge Academy

A Typical Summer in the Summer Bridge Academy 
 

Students selected for SBA will participate in a six-week summer program. All students will be enrolled in nine (9) college level credits. The credits earned may fulfill graduation requirements. Courses may include: 

  • Oral Communication 

  • General Psychology

  • General Sociology

  • Computers in the Professions 

  • Introduction to College Writing 

In addition, students will be enrolled in non-credited courses to supplement and improve their academic skills. Some of these courses may include: 

  • Information Literacy 

SBA runs Monday-Friday. This includes classes, tutoring, one-on-one appointments, workshops, and other activities. A typical day begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 4:30 PM.  Students have evening study sessions twice a week.  

Additional Support 

Students enrolled in SBA participate in both individualized and comprehensive student development services. These services include: 

  • Personal Counseling 

  • Career Counseling 

  • Academic Planning 

  • Mentoring 

Numerous workshops and meetings are required throughout the academic year, all with the goal of achieving academic success and personal growth and development. 

What to expect during the academic year

Students continue to meet with their student development counselors and continue to be connected to academic services.  

Students are provided with opportunities to be part of a variety of clubs, jobs and organizations.  They include: 

  • Various academic affiliated organizations (ex. Pre-Law, FEA, SNA, START)  

  • Resident Assistants 

  • Orientation Leaders 

  • Peer Leaders in SBA  

  • Peer Mentors in the School of Business 

  • The Multicultural Students Association  

  • The Latin American Student Organization  

  • Black, Brown and Proud  

  • Urban Arts Theatre  

  • Student Government Association and Student Trustees  

  • Program Council  

  • Commencement Speakers 

  • Fraternities and Sororities 

  • Various sports teams/clubs (ex. Rugby, LAX, Hockey, Basketball – Men’s and Women’s) 

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