JumpStart Scholars Program

Students who successfully complete the requirements of the program will receive:

• Small scholarship, renewable each year
• Costs for the early move-in program, including meals covered through the start of the semester.
• Early preparation course in Physics, Calculus, or Chemistry
• Pre-exposure and access to campus life and Student resources
• A chance to make connections with upper-class mentors, key university faculty, staff, and administrators
• College 101 Success Workshops (Ex. Developing good study habits, Time Management, etc.)
• Priority Registration for each semester. 

*(Note that program benefits are subject to change at Rensselaer's discretion).* 

The JumpStart Scholars Program is a 4 year long program with an emphasis of First-Year engagement requirements that consists of:

• Non-credit bearing pre-fall Semester two‑week summer academic readiness course in physics and calculus or chemistry.
• Early move‑in
• Engaging in Overnight Trip 
• RPI Student Orientation
• Navigating Rensselaer and Beyond Overnight and Day programs
• Required Cohort programming
• First-Year targeted academic support and mentoring
• Study Halls, at least twice a week in our Student Success Center
• Two meetings with JumpStart Program Coordinator in the Office of Inclusive Excellence

This program is by invitation only intended for First-Generation College students. Potential students are identified by Admissions.

To be eligible, students must have paid their deposit confirming their enrollment at RPI for the fall semester. 
International students and students enrolling at other institutions are not eligible to participate in this program.

Each scholar’s application will be thoroughly reviewed, and their course selection will be determined in consultation with the program’s faculty and committee. Scholars will be able to select two of the following noncredit bearing online preparation course in either Calculus, Chemistry, or Physics.

The course should selected based on the scholar’s major, and the scholar’s level of preparedness to face the rigorous academic coursework at Rensselaer. 

In addition, scholars will participate in College 101 Workshops/Seminars to gain new knowledge of higher education hidden curriculum and build necessary skills such as time management, study tips, stress management, communication with faculty and more. 

As part of the JumpStart Scholars Program, you will be moving in early to (HOUSING ) Hall for your Fall Semester. 

This arrangement allows you to get accustomed to being in your room to get adjusted and feel prepared for the start of the semester.  Your assigned roommate will join you in the fall semester once all other students move in. 

This will help build stronger connections and create a Welcoming & Inclusive Campus. 

If you have or need special accommodations due to medical or religious concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Additionally, please follow the guidelines on housing applications following the link here.

Scholars will participate in College 101 Workshops/Seminars to gain new knowledge of higher education hidden curriculum and build necessary skills such as time management, study tips, stress management, communication with faculty and more. 

No – Scholars are to remain under the supervision of the program as we help students navigate campus. Additionally, due to the fast paced of the program, scholars are not allowed to leave the campus for a day or a weekend to avoid any disruption in the program.

Yes, if you are a scholar with a disability who needs accommodations (for mobility, learning, etc.) please contact the office of Access & Neurodiverse Student Success

The JumpStart Scholars Program plans to have your meal plan open upon arrival. There are some additional campus events where outside food is provided. If you have dietary restrictions, please be sure to let program staff know as soon as possible, so they can ensure all meals will meet your dietary needs.

No – Due to the fast pace and intensity of the program, it will not be possible for a scholar to catch up with the materials and the program activities. 

With students moving into their assigned housing for the Fall, please use this guide as you are planning your move into your residence hall:

• Room (bed sheets, pillows, etc.) 
• Personal (toilet paper, laundry detergent) 
• Personal Hygiene Products (body soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, body lotion, deodorant etc...) 
• Miscellaneous expenses (bookstore gifts, RPI t-shirt, etc.). 

Additional guidance on What to Bring and What Not to Bring can be found here on RPI's Student Living & Learning Website.