THE 2026 PRE-COLLEGE APPLICATION
Applying to Pre-College
The Skidmore Pre-College Program welcomes high-achieving, motivated, and mature high school students who are interested in preparing for college success. Our application is now open and decisions are rolling. Courses fill up quickly, so applying early gives the best chance of enrolling in your first-choice courses.
Application checklist
To complete your application, please have the following ready:
- Online application form - opens January 12, 2026
- $60 non-refundable application fee (waived for scholarship applicants)
- Personal Essay: A 250–500 word essay explaining your interest in the course(s) you selected, to be uploaded with your application.
- Official high school transcript and current grade report: Submitted electronically by your school. Transcripts must include current grades/marks from ninth grade onward. Instructions for submission will be included in your application confirmation email.
- Two teacher recommendations: Letters from teachers who know you well. Instructions for submission will be included in your confirmation email.
- Consent Waiver and Release: PDF to be uploaded as part of the online application.
- Residential and Academic Life Agreement is included in the online application.
- Scholarship Application(if applicable): PDF, to be uploaded with your application.
Deadline: March 15, 2026. Must be submitted with all application materials (transcript, grade report, and recommendations) to be considered for a scholarship. Applicants from partner schools are exempt.
Uploads must follow these rules:
- Include your first and last name in each file name (e.g., JohnSmithEssay.docx)
- No spaces or symbols
- Accepted file types: .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt, .jpeg, .png
- Max file size: 25 MB
Who is eligible?
Residential Students: Rising high school juniors or seniors, 16–17 years old by program start. Students turning 18 before or during the program are not eligible.
Commuting Students: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors, 15–18 years old by program start.
International Students: Non-matriculated international students cannot enroll in Skidmore summer courses.
How are applications reviewed?
The admissions committee evaluates applicants based on:
- Academic excellence
Intellectual curiosity
Readiness to study and live independently in a college setting
When are decisions made?
- Decisions are made on a rolling basis until June 1, 2026.
Scholarship applicant deadline: March 15, 2026.
Applicants are notified by email.
Accepted students must confirm attendance with a $500 non-refundable deposit (waived for scholarship recipients).