Wheels Up to Your Dream School: The Fly-In Advantage!

Ready for takeoff? Fly-in programs are your first-class ticket to finding the perfect fit.

Let’s be honest—choosing a college can feel like throwing darts at a map and hoping for the best. But what if you could fly in, test the waters, meet real students and professors, and do it all without spending a dime?

Welcome to the world of Fly-In Programs—your golden ticket to experiencing a college campus before making one of the biggest decisions of your life.

What Are Fly-In Programs, Anyway?

Fly-in programs are fully-funded visits—yes, travel, lodging, meals, the whole nine—for high school students to explore college campuses. They’re designed to give you a taste of student life, attend classes, meet professors, and even sleep in a dorm (hello, future roomie!). Most are geared toward high-achieving students from underrepresented, first-generation, or low-income backgrounds, but many are open to all.

And no, this isn’t a scam. These colleges want you there.

Why Should I Care?

Besides the obvious perk of getting a free trip, fly-in programs offer a chance to:

• Try before you apply: Experience campus culture beyond the brochure.

• Connect with students and staff: Ask questions, join activities, and get a feel for the real vibe.

• Access application support: Many programs include workshops on admissions, financial aid, and essay writing.

• Make your application stand out: Demonstrating serious interest (also called “demonstrated interest”) through a fly-in can give your application an edge.

The Secret Sauce: Strong Applications

Most fly-in applications are due between June and September, prior to your senior year. They often require:

• A short essay (think: Why us?)

• A list of your top extracurriculars

• Transcripts or grade reports

• A letter of recommendation (often from a teacher or counselor)

• Sometimes, a resume—pro tip: bring your A-game and include both!

💡 Essay Tip:

Don’t just copy/paste random facts about the school. Show how those facts connect to you. One student shared how her passion for environmental advocacy led her to highlight a specific professor and club at Dartmouth. Another used the essay to reflect on how higher education would help her serve her community long-term. Keep it personal. Keep it, you.

So... How Do I Prepare?

To get ahead, start before your junior year ends. Here’s your Fly-In Prep List:

• Ask your counselor or mentor if they’re willing to write a recommendation

• Polish your resume

• Reflect on your interests—what matters to you in a college?

• Start researching schools that actually fit your goals

Make sure to consider things like:

• School size and setting (urban vs. rural)

• Majors offered

• Affordability

• Diversity and support services

• Test-optional status

• Public vs. private

• Out-of-state opportunities

Because remember, a free trip is great, but only if the school truly fits your dreams.

Bonus: What Is “Connect with a Student”?

Some fly-in programs offer a “Connect with a Student” option, where you’re paired with a current college student to ask questions, hear real stories, and get a vibe check from someone living it right now. Think of it as your inside scoop—uncensored.

Ready to See the Full List?

Fly-ins are competitive, and spots fill up fast. We've compiled a full list of 2025 Fly-In Programs—complete with deadlines and insider tips—to help you get started.

➡️ Download the full list from our site and start planning your campus adventure today.

Have questions or need support preparing? Don’t hesitate to get in touch -  reach out anytime 🔆