An On-Campus Summer Workshop for College-Bound Students Who Learn Differently
June 21 – July 2, 2025
Students who learn differently often find themselves navigating their college experience without a map — and feeling alone.
It leaves students feeling overwhelmed, unable to keep up with assignments, and disconnected from professors and classmates. And too many students ultimately drop out of college — dissatisfied with their college experience and their confidence shaken.
The College Edge provides students with a supportive environment to experience the rigorous demands of college — with coaching and workshops designed to build their college readiness skills.
How It Works
Beacon’s College Edge is a highly interactive, on-campus residential experience. Students participate in immersive college-level courses combined with hands-on college living labs. All activities, counseling, and instruction target self-awareness and skill-building in areas critical to college success: academic, executive functioning, and social and emotional well-being.
Through practical exercises and immediate feedback, students learn how to improve their college-level skills — and successfully apply these critical strategies to their future college environment.
Academic Courses
Each student participates in three courses to build familiarity with the elements of college academics. Students explore their interests while developing experience in syllabus review, lecture-style courses, projects and peer collaboration, and more
Explore CoursesAccuplacer Testing
Common in college and university environments, the Accuplacer Test in reading helps us make specific recommendations for each student at the beginning of the program. It also introduces students to the kind of assessment they may encounter during their college transition.
College-Living Labs
Students choose two college-living labs to build executive functioning, social, and independent living skills. Topics include personal finance, college rules and regulations, dating and parties, resiliency, and navigating digital success (mandatory for Beacon-bound students).
Social Activities
One of the most difficult transitions in college is the balance of academics, social life, and self-care. The College Edge helps students build confidence and awareness through a range of on- and off-campus social opportunities.
Explore Further
Want to learn more about the College Edge? Here you can explore a few short videos about the program, including insights from past students, parents, and staff.
Preparing for College Rules and Regulations
Understanding college rules and regulations is crucial for a smooth transition to higher education. This video explores how College Edge helps students navigate these expectations effectively.
Productive Struggle: Preparing for College Academics
Productive struggle fosters resilience and problem-solving skills in the classroom. Learn how College Edge uses this approach to support learning and growth.
Building Confidence for College
Confidence is key to college success. Discover how the College Edge program empowers students to believe in their abilities and take on new challenges.
Student Activities & Campus Life
From recreational outings to campus events, College Edge offers a variety of activities that create a fun and engaging summer experience.
Residence Life and Independent Living
Living on campus during College Edge helps students practice independence and life skills in a supportive environment.
How does Beacon's College Edge prepare students for the future?
College Edge equips students with tools for academic, social, and personal success, setting them up for a bright college journey and beyond.
Program Costs
The College Edge’s all-inclusive cost is $3,450. This includes all on-campus programming and expenses including meals, housing, and activities. Single-person rooms are available for an additional $750. Students are responsible for their travel to and from Beacon College for the program. Scholarships are available for accepted students with demonstrated need.
Scholarship ApplicationWho Should Attend
- Current high school seniors graduating before this year’s program
- Students who have taken a gap year after high school
- Current college students aged 18–22 (who have ideally earned fewer than 30 credits
- Current college students preparing to transfer Begin Your Online Application
Center for College Readiness
Do you have a question? Get in touch with the Center for College Readiness at summerprogram@beaconcollege.edu, or call 855-220-5376 (toll-free).