Columbia fly-in programs
Columbia University offers two fly-in programs: The Engineering Preview at Columbia (EPC) and the Small Town and Rural Students (STARS) fly-in programs. Both programs will be held in October 2025 and applications will be available starting in mid-June with a deadline of July 21 to apply. Both programs have similar programming but are aimed at different audiences.
Engineering Preview at Columbia (EPC)
EPC was created to encourage high-achieving rising high school seniors from low-income backgrounds to explore an engineering education at Columbia. This year, EPC is taking place from Sunday, October 12, to Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
EPC is designed for high-achieving high school seniors who have:
- Exemplary academic records, particularly in math and science, including coursework in calculus, physics and chemistry
- Sincere interest in pursuing an engineering education
- Genuine appreciation for the vibrant Columbia community, which brings together students with varied lived experiences
EPC is designed to serve students who may have had less exposure to the fields of engineering and applied science including:
- Low-income students
- Students who will be the first generation in their family to attend college
- Students from underserved and rural communities
- Students who qualify for Free or Reduced Price Lunch
- Students attending Title 1 or economically-disadvantaged high schools
Small Town and Rural Students (STARS) Fly-In Program
The STARS Fly-In was created to encourage high-achieving rising high school seniors from rural and small town backgrounds to explore an undergraduate education in New York City at Columbia. This year, the STARS Fly-In is taking place from Saturday, October 18, to Monday, October 20, 2025.
The STARS Fly-In is designed for high-achieving high school seniors who have:
- Exemplary academic records
- Genuine appreciation for the vibrant Columbia community, which brings together students with varied lived experiences
- Primarily grown up in rural areas or small towns that are underserved in higher education, especially those students who have not previously visited New York City.
Program Highlights for both EPC and STARS Fly-In Include:
- 100% funding: Columbia will fund and arrange hotel and travel accommodations, including air, rail and ground transportation, for the student and one parent/guardian. All meals and snacks during the program will be provided for the student as well.
- World-class education: Students will meet members of Columbia’s renowned faculty, learn about our century-old Core Curriculum and visit our world-class research centers.
- The NYC advantage: Students will experience New York City and the unparalleled cultural, research, career and intellectual opportunities at our doorstep.
- Inside look at life as a Columbian: Students will experience campus life and meet with current students, including visits from current student organizations.
- Understanding the admissions process: Students will participate in comprehensive college admissions and financial aid workshops conducted by Columbia Undergraduate Admissions and Columbia Financial Aid & Educational Financing staff.
Due to the selectivity and limited size of the programs, a school-issued transcript is required to apply. Unofficial copies, such as those provided by a counselor or printed from an online grades portal are sufficient to apply.
Remember the deadline to apply is July 21, 2025!