Bridges to College is a free, 9-week summer program for recent high school graduates who plan to attend GRCC in Fall 2026.
You’ll join a cohort of students, earn early college credit, learn how to navigate college life, and build a strong sense of belonging at GRCC — before your first semester begins.
The best part? The program covers major student costs (tuition, meals, laptop, and more) to reduce barriers and help you focus on your success.
What You’ll Get from Bridges to College
By the end of the program, you will:
- Earn 3–5 college credits before fall semester starts
- Build real-world skills for college success (time management, study strategies, communication)
- Get connected to advising, tutoring, financial aid and our GRCC CARES network
- Explore career and transfer options (including a visit to a transfer partner)
- Build friendships and a support network through your cohort
- Feel confident using GRCC systems and tech tools you’ll need for classes
Program Dates and Weekly Schedule
- Dates: Monday, June 15-Thursday, Aug. 18
- Days/Time: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (Specific dates will be longer for required co-curricular activities)
- Weeks 1-2: "Orientation 2.0" will explain how college works, how to use GRCC-specific technology platforms and how to be successful in the program.
- Weeks 3-9: Classes and co-curricular experiences provide opportunities to engage in leadership, career exploration, campus connection activities and support sessions.
Cohorts are offered at both the Lakeshore and Main Campuses.
Choose Your Cohort
Pleas note: You will take two linked courses. Both cohorts include embedded tutoring/lab support as part of your schedule.
All students take CLS 100: Introduction to College – New Student Experience plus one additional course.
Option 1: Math Ready Cohort (3 Credits)
CLS 100 + MA (TBD)
This option is great for students who want to strengthen math skills and build momentum toward college-level math and includes tutoring support. This experience is great for students who's last math class in high school was Algebra II and may not have had a successful experience.
Option 2: Gen Ed Ready Cohort (5 Credits)
CLS 100 + MUS 130: American Popular Music
This option is great for students who want to complete general education credits early with a popular Humanities course.
Who Can Participate?
Bridges to College is designed for students who:
- Are 18–20 years old
- Any recent high school graduate
- Must attend GRCC in Fall 2026
- Have applied to GRCC and completed New Student Orientation
- Can commit to participating in the full 9-week program (absences negatively effect learning and course/program success)
Spots are limited and filled first-come, first-served. If the program fills, students will be placed on a waitlist.
Please note: Week of Independence Day classes will be held.
What Does It Cost?
Nothing. Bridges to College is designed to reduce barriers and support your success.
Covered expenses include:
- Tuition for your courses
- Laptop (provided for program participation)
- Meals (breakfast and lunch during program days)
- Transportation support (bus passes and/or parking support)
- Co-curricular experiences (events, admissions, transportation)
- Up to a $500 stipend (loaded on your RaiderCard after completion)
- Bridges to College swag
Total value per student: Approximately $2,250–$3,000, depending on campus and cohort.
How to Get Involved
Ready to take your next step? Here’s the pathway:
- Complete your GRCC application.
- Complete the Bridges to College Intake/Interest Form (TBD).
- Attend a Bridges to College information session.
- Complete GRCC New Student Orientation.
- Confirm your commitment.
Contact Us
Email us at bridgestocollege@grcc.edu or call (616) 234-3388.