Bridge Scholars Application Process and Eligibility

Eligibility

  • You must meet these eligibility requirements to apply to the Bridge Scholars Summer Program:
    • Be eligible to receive in-state tuition (regardless of documentation status).
    • Are a First-Generation college student (biological or adoptive parents have not earned a bachelor’s degree).
    • Show financial need through the 2025-2026 FAFSA or CASFSA financial aid applications.
    • Be admitted to CSU for the Fall 2026 term.

Application Process

  • Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can access the application by logging in to RAMweb with your NetID. Then follow the link to your Admissions Dashboard, and open the Bridge Scholars tab.
  • If you feel you have met the eligibility requirements and have not yet received an invitation to apply, please contact Angel Ruiz via email at [email protected].
  • Submit your 2025-2026 FAFSA or CASFA using your 2023 income and tax information.
    • *2025-2026 FAFSA or CASFA is required to have your Bridge application reviewed.

Selection of Scholars

  • Once all eligibility and application requirements are met, the selection committee will evaluate applicants on the following:
    • Student’s ability and perceived effort in completing the application.
    • Expressed commitment to take on the responsibilities related to being a college student and successfully completing college coursework.
    • Explanation of what the student hopes to gain as a result of participating in the program.
    • Desire to positively contribute to the Bridge Scholars community.
      • *Students are required to participate and be present for the entirety of the 8-week program. Some exceptions for short-term absences can be made for scholarship and academic commitments.

Notification of Status

  • Students can expect notification of their application status by April 1st. In some circumstances, this notification may be delayed.

2026 Application

The Bridge Scholars Application will open November 1, 2025 and will be accessible via your Admissions Dashboard in RAMweb.

To be considered for priority review, submit your application by December 19, 2025.  All applications are due March 13, 2026.

The application will remain open until all spots are filled.

The 2025-2026 FAFSA/CASFA is currently open and is required to have your Bridge application reviewed.

2026 Program Dates

Selected students are required to attend and be present for the entirety of the 8-week summer program. Program dates are June 14th-August 7th.

Generally, student will have the option of staying on campus for the weekend or leaving after classes or Bridge programing on Friday. Students are required to return for our weekly Bridge meeting on Sundays at 6pm. There is one weekend during the program that will require students to stay on campus for special programing.

Prior to the program beginning, there will be a mandatory Bridge Ready event where students and their families will receive important program information and critical support with registering for classes. These dates will be announced at a later time.