Summer Transition Education Program (STEP)
The Summer Transition Education Program (STEP) provides college admission support for high potential students who may have faced academic, socioeconomic, and/or personal challenges beyond their control. The program's support system includes mentoring and monitoring each student's academic progress and providing academic advising, counseling, and referrals.
Other key features of STEP are the strong collaboration between program staff and the student's parent(s) or guardian(s), and a six-week summer residential experience, emphasizing academic development.
Eligibility Criteria
Who is eligible?
We seek college-bound high school seniors primarily from urban areas; the program is designed for freshmen entering their first year of college. Students are considered eligible for the program if they are academically capable and motivated, and demonstrate high potential for success. They must also have taken the ACT or SAT.
We seek college-bound high school seniors primarily from urban areas; the program is designed for freshmen entering their first year of college. Students are considered eligible for the program if they are academically capable and motivated, and demonstrate high potential for success. They must also have taken the ACT or SAT.
What is the profile of a typical STEP student?
STEP students are college-bound seniors who are often among the first generation in their families to attend college. They have demonstrated the personal discipline necessary for success, pursuing a college preparatory curriculum that includes english, math, history, laboratory science and foreign language. Most have held leadership positions and participated in organizations in their school or community. They also have demonstrated initiative in personal projects, employment or extracurricular activities.
What is required of STEP participants once accepted to the university?
STEP students are required to sign a letter of understanding that they will:
- Participate in Bentley's New Student Orientation Program prior to the summer residential program
- Successfully complete the six-week summer residential program
- Attend all workshops, mandatory meetings, and lectures assigned by the STEP director for the first three semesters they are at Bentley
- Attain a minimum 2.3 grade in each of two summer courses and maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 each semester
Application Process
How do I apply for the program?
You must apply through the regular admission process for all incoming students; applications are due by January 15. You must have a recommendation from a guidance counselor, Bentley alumnus, or community partner. Finally, you must submit the FAFSA, CSS Profile Form, and all federal tax returns to the Office of Financial Assistance before February 1.
Selection Process
How are students chosen for the STEP program?
STEP is a competitive program limited to 25 students each year; participants are individually selected. Every candidate must complete an interview and be able to participate in the summer component of the program.
Benefits
What are the benefits of the program?
Bentley provides funding for STEP student participation in the New Student Orientation and the summer residential program. Students receive two free Bentley courses during the summer, along with academic advising, mentoring, monitoring of academic progress, tutorial services, and additional counseling and support. Students also can take advantage of opportunities for social networking and professional development.
Does the STEP program offer any scholarships?
There are two scholarships available exclusively for STEP students:
More Information
To learn more about about STEP, please take a moment to review our online brochure:
En Español
For additional information or questions, contact Claudette Blot, Director of the STEP Program, at cblot@bentley.edu or 781.891.2142.