The STARS College Network is a consortium of 32 colleges and universities across the United States committed to improving access and affordability to higher education for rural and small-town students. These schools are united in their mission to make college a reality for all rural and small-town students through free college planning tools that help students learn about, prepare for, apply to, and succeed at college.
This fall, the STARS College Network is excited to bring talented and passionate high school students from across rural America together for a series of free fly-in programs at Amherst College, Brown University, Case Western Reserve University, and Colby College.
These programs are all-expense-paid opportunities for selected students to visit a STARS College Network member campus for three days and two nights. During the fly-in program, students learn more about how to navigate the college application process, experience life on a residential college campus, and meet other talented and passionate students from across rural America.
Fall 2026 Fly-in Programs for Rising Seniors*
High school educators from rural and small-town high schools and community-based organizations across the United States are invited to nominate their
top rising seniors (students graduating in 2027). Upon being nominated, students will be contacted to complete the rest of the fly-in application.
The most competitive students will:
- Demonstrate a passion for community engagement and involvement
- Be excited about developing their leadership skills
- Have strong academic records and fall in the top 10% of their class (or equivalent if the school doesn't rank)
The following fly-in programs are available for rising high school seniors this fall:
• Amherst College in Amherst, MA from September 25-28, 2026
• Brown University in Providence, RI from September 27-29, 2026
• Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH from October 11-13, 2026
• Colby College in Waterville, ME from October 18-20, 2026 *(Rising high school juniors are also invited to apply to this program.)
These programs are free for students, and include funding for travel, transportation to and from the college campus, and all meals and activities during the visit. Space is limited and the application process is selective.
Educators can submit the form multiple times to nominate as many students as they'd like. Students must complete the application for the Fall 2026 STARS Fly-ins by July 15, 2026.
Thank you for nominating your students for the STARS College Network fly-in programs! If you have any questions or would like to schedule a time to discuss any of your students who are applying, please contact us at stars@starscollegenetwork.org.
