Transitioning to any college is a big adjustment, and students who build strong college habits and social connections early are more likely to thrive. The LEAP Summer Start Experience provides support for this transition to incoming first-year students admitted to the University Park campus. The program, which runs during Summer Session II, combines small courses reserved for first-year students with peer support and housing within interest-based learning communities to help new students navigate the transition to college. 

There is no need to sign up, new summer students automatically have access to the opportunities and supports the program provides. New students admitted to the fall semester should contact Undergraduate Admissions by May 1 and request to change their starting term to summer if they would like to participate in the program. 

Program Dates for Summer 2026 

LEAP Summer Start Experience Costs 

Please see this accessible PDF for details on costs for the LEAP program.

How does LEAP support student success? 

Small classes help students build connections with faculty and each other while fostering a collaborative environment where they can form study groups, build friendships, and start their academic journey strong.

LEAP’s learning community housing brings students together with peers who have similar academic interests, creating opportunities to build connections, share experiences, and extend learning beyond the classroom. 

Connection to a Peer Mentor who provides support throughout the summer with check-ins and drop-in hours in the residence halls. The LEAP Peer Mentors also:

• Host weekly group meetings with their students, designed to provide practical strategies and personalized guidance to navigate college life with confidence 
• Offer one-on-one meetings for students who are struggling with the transition to campus, managing their time, staying on top of assignments, and more
• Encourage participation in campus and community events throughout the summer
• Communicate details about campus resources and upcoming events

LEAP Learning Communities
LEAP students have the opportunity to opt in to a learning community as part of their New Student Orientation process. 

The learning communities for Summer 2026 with interest areas listed are:

Arts, Design & Communication: creative expression, design, or communications.
Business & Entrepreneurship: business, leadership, or innovation.
Education & Helping Professions: teaching, human services, or helping others.
Engineering & Technology: engineering, computing, or technology.
Exploratory Scholars: exploring academic or career interests.
Health & Wellness: fitness, wellness, or health sciences.
Liberal Arts: People, Society, and Change: history, cultures, languages, law, philosophy, or society.
Science & Mathematics: scientific discovery, research, or mathematics.
Sustainability, Agricultural, & Environmental Studies: sustainability, agricultural systems, or the environment.

LEAP Courses
Most courses offered in the LEAP program are general education courses that help students from any academic major make progress toward their degree requirements. Beginning in January, you can view courses being offered in LEAP by visiting the public class search. In the class search, set the attribute filter to "LEAP" and it will display the courses being offered in the program. You'll register for your summer courses as part of New Student Orientation.

Want to learn more about the LEAP summer start experience? 
Webinars will be held during the spring semester. Register for a webinar to learn more about this unique program and experience.