Where students become scholars
College Readiness
Scholars Institute
The College Readiness Scholars Institute offers an immersive college experience for first-generation and underserved high school students in Delaware.
College Readiness Scholars Institute at the University of Delaware: youtube.com/watch?v=6bD2gEB-6tg
Application Deadline
Applications for summer 2024 are now closed. The 2025 application will reopen in early December 2024.
Why CRSI?
In the College Readiness Scholars Institute (CRSI) students don't just learn; they work to become scholars. When high school students complete our summer programming—at no cost to the student—they are transformed by our rigorous academic environment, newly committed to a journey of personal and professional growth, and encouraged to become leaders in the community and the wider world. Through close working relationships with UD faculty, staff and undergraduate students, CRSI students are not just preparing for college, they are committing themselves to a lifelong educational journey.
CRSI Information Sessions
Get to know the University of Delaware's College Readiness Scholars Institute from the comfort of your home, with our virtual visit experience. Hear from the director, assistant director and UD students about the program and how it will help you in your preparation for college.
Program Information
College Readiness Scholars Institute is designed to continue throughout a student’s high school career, beginning with a required summer session and followed by sessions throughout the academic school year. The program is held on UD's campus at no cost to you.
During the summer, students will:
- Take part in a variety of engaging and interactive activities
- Participate in academic seminars with engaging and passionate UD faculty and staff
- Participate in a pre-college readiness workshop led by experienced admissions professionals, where students gain insight into the college application process, including what it takes to create a competitive college essay
- Use UD’s Career Center to prepare for your future career
- Engage with staff and students at UD to learn from their stories of personal growth, resiliency, leadership and success
- Take part in a variety of cultural experiences that allow students to build friendships and understand the value of living in a diverse community
Throughout the school year, students will:
Participate in sessions led by UD faculty, staff and undergraduate students; these sessions will continue to support students in their academic, personal and professional growth, ensuring students are college and career ready.
Admission to the College Readiness Scholars Institute is competitive and selective. Students must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission to the program:
- Be a rising high school freshman, sophomore, junior or senior by summer of 2024 (programming differs for 9th–10th grade students and 11th–12th grade students)
- 2.5+ cumulative GPA
- Demonstrates strong academic potential, good judgment and maturity, and the ability to succeed in a highly structured environment by submitting a letter of recommendation and transcripts
Must meet one of the following qualifications:
- first-generation college student (first in your immediate family to attend college)
- low income (qualify for free or reduced lunch)
Students must attend an orientation session prior to the start of the program. Orientation sessions will occur in May 2024 and will be open for registration by early April 2024.
There are no costs for students to participate in this program.
For rising 11th and 12th grade students:
April 15, 2024: Priority deadline to submit applications.
May 1, 2024: Priority deadline to submit all enrollment forms.
June 17, 2024: Move-in begins at 4:00 p.m.
June 28, 2024: Closing ceremony at 5:15 p.m. Move-out of residence hall by 7:30 p.m.
For rising 9th and 10th grade students:
April 15, 2024: Priority deadline to submit applications.
May 1, 2024: Priority deadline to submit all enrollment forms.
June 23, 2024: Move-in begins at 4:00 p.m.
June 28, 2024: Closing ceremony at 5:15 p.m. Move-out of residence hall by 7:30 p.m.
The 2023 College Readiness Scholars Institute will be offered in-person on UD’s Newark campus. We will be adhering to the most up-to-date university guidelines and policies. Please note that these policies are subject to change with public health guidance.
Are Edge students required to be vaccinated?
While Edge students are not required to be vaccinated, we strongly encourage them to be fully vaccinated.
Are Edge students required to wear masks?
Students are no longer required to wear masks on campus, except in all healthcare and clinical areas.
For more information on UD's COVID policies visit udel.edu/home/coronavirus.
CRSI Program Contacts
Address: 210 South College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716-7202
Phone: (302) 831-8123
Email: crsi-program@udel.edu