Summer Bridge Academy (SBA) is an alternative admissions program that aims to help high school graduates succeed academically in college. We are committed to ensuring that students master essential academic skills to fulfill their educational aspirations. Certain students must enhance these abilities before starting college, so their participation in the SBA is mandatory. The SBA is structured to equip students with the necessary tools and resources for success at Salem State throughout their academic journey.
The SBA offers program students opportunities to demonstrate achievement and/or progress in developing the three areas below.
#1 Academic Skills
This competency focuses on a student’s ability to develop and expand upon appropriate academic behaviors and incorporate outside experiences into the academic environment.
Identify educational and personal goals, understand individual learning styles, refine writing skills, develop critical research skills essential for college success, acquire a broad oral communication competency, enhance critical thinking, and develop and foster academic confidence, self-determination, and self-esteem.
#2 Student Development
This competency focuses on a student’s ability to develop and expand upon varying aspects of identity development. This area highlights how students tackle accountability and responsibility and display appropriate follow-through. Students should establish meaningful purpose, understand primary SSU system navigation, develop basic time management skills, understand basic financial literacy, demonstrate an appreciation for various forms of expression from diverse perspectives, and develop self-advocacy skills within the university setting and career exploration.
#3 Personal Development
This competency focuses on 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 others' points of view, and participate in volunteer activities.
Summer Bridge Academy Applicant Information
Applicants are considered for admission to SBA using the following criteria:
- High School GPA: minimum 2.0
- Personal Interview, if deemed necessary
First-time college students (have not attended another college aside from Dual Enrollment or Early College credits)
Students who attend and successfully complete the Summer Bridge Academy are admitted to Salem State University and can begin classes in the Fall semester.
- Virtual Information Sessions Dates, 4 pm
- In-Person Information Session Dates, 4 pm
- Guidance Counselor/School Official Information Sessions, 4 pm
The cost of SBA is generally covered with the exception of an enrollment deposit by financial aid. The cost covers academic and development courses, technology for access to online learning, books, academic support, and workshops. The total cost for 2024 SBA is $3,500.
- 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 2024-2025 FAFSA and the 2025-2026 FAFSA.
- For fall: If you completed your 2025-2026 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 1, 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 aid will I receive? 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.
A Typical Summer in the Summer Bridge Academy
Students selected for SBA will participate in a six-week remote 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
- 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, which includes classes, tutoring, one-on-one appointments, workshops, and other activities. A typical day begins at 8 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
- Academic Coaching
- Mentoring
Workshops and meetings are required throughout the academic year, all with the goal of achieving academic success and personal growth and development.
Students continue to meet with their student development counselors and continue to be connected to academic services.
Students are provided with opportunities to participate in various clubs, jobs and organizations including:
- 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 Black Student Union (BSU)
- The Latin American Student Organization (LASO)
- Student Government Association and Student Trustees
- Campus Activity Board (CAB)
- Commencement Speakers
- Fraternities and Sororities
- Various sports teams/clubs (ex. Rugby, LAX, Hockey, Basketball – Men’s and Women’s)