Spartan Star Summer Program
Welcome to the Spartan Student Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) Summer Program!
Participation in the STAR Program is by invitation only. Please contact Admissions at admissions@stac.edu if you are unsure of your eligibility.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Spartan STAR Summer Program is designed to help prepare select incoming Freshmen for academic success and the transition to college life. Students with high school GPAs between 2.0-2.6 can be considered for this head start program.
It’s a four-week Summer program offering a fantastic opportunity to earn 6 credits towards your college degree while getting a feel for campus life and igniting your passion for learning.
July 13 through August 7, 2025*
*Students must commit to the entire four week program.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS AND BENEFITS
Academic Head Start: Earn a total of 6 college credits in Math & Writing, preparing you for the fall semester and a savings opportunity of more than $6,000 for the low cost of $1,200.
Free Flexible Housing: Live on campus Sunday through Thursday with the option to stay over the weekends or go home. If you’re a commuter student you don’t have to stay on campus during the week but the free benefit is yours as well. Meals are also included!
Engaging Workshops: Participate in daily workshops focused on time management, platforms and systems you’ll use during college, note taking skills, wellness activities, and more.
Networking Opportunities: Meet other new freshmen and bond with future classmates before the school year starts. Connect with faculty and staff who will help guide you through your college journey.
Fun Social Events: Enjoy a variety of activities and events designed to make your transition to college life as smooth as possible.
Have questions? Join us for a virtual session
We invite you and your family to join one of our Virtual Information Sessions to learn more about the program:
Wednesday, April 9 at 6:00 PM
Wednesday, April 30 at 6:00 PM
We also encourage you to review the FAQs below or contact Mary Vota, Director of Student Success, at mvota@stac.edu with any questions. If you’re ready to move forward, follow the next steps below.

NeXt Steps
By completing the form you will be able to express your interest in the program and reserve your place. You’ll also have the option to request a meeting to learn more about the program.
Space in the program is limited and we encourage you to register by May 1, 2025.
If you haven’t yet submitted your deposit to attend St. Thomas Aquinas College in the fall, you can do so by sending your admissions deposit of $100 as a commuting student or $250 as a resident student. Visit the Deposit page for more information.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Incoming freshmen with GPAs ranging from 2.0 – 2.6 (on a 4.0 scale).
The first step to register for the STAR Program is to complete the Commitment Form. By completing the form you will be able to express your interest in the program and reserve your place. You’ll also have the option to request a meeting to learn more about the program.
Space in the program is limited and we encourage you to register by May 1, 2025.
Yes, students who participate in the Program will receive three meals a day on campus.
Weekend housing will be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on student needs.
Yes, commuter students are welcome to participate, attend daily classes and activities without staying on campus.
Students will take a 3-credit writing course and a 3-credit math course for a total of 6 credits.
Classes for the 2025 STAR program are in person.
Students who attend the STAR Program must participate in all events and activities.
The STAR program requires a full-time commitment for the entire duration. Students must be available for the entire program to participate.
Yes. There is a reduced fee of $1,200, which covers:
- Four weeks of on-campus housing
- Three meals a day
- All workshops and activities
- 6 college credits toward your degree
Students with demonstrated financial need may be considered for scholarships to help cover the fee. The STAR program fee will be added to your Fall 2025 tuition bill.