What is Summer Start?
Summer Start provides a select group of first-year students with an early opportunity to complete two to three academic courses before their first Fall semester, further develop their learning and study skills, and connect with the Clemson community. The program supports a successful transition to Clemson through success coaching, mentoring, and engagement in intentional programs and support services.
WHO IS SUMMER START FOR?
Summer Start is a program for first-year applicants to Clemson University who are offered Summer admission. There is no additional application for Summer Start. First-year applicants to Clemson are automatically considered for Summer admission during the application review process, and a select group receives a Summer offer of admission. Students admitted to the Summer term must complete a Summer program to continue at Clemson for the Fall 2025 term. Summer Start is one of the summer pathways students can participate in to fulfill their Summer admission offer. All admitted Summer term students are encouraged to sign up for a virtual Summer Start Information Session in their Admitted Student Portal to learn about the components of the program, including community living, student support, and financial aid. A recorded Summer Start Information Session and more can be accessed here.
Summer Start 2025 Timeline
| Time Frame | Action |
|---|---|
| February 18 | Admission decisions delivered |
| May 1 | Enrollment deadline |
| June 24 | Summer Start bill due |
| June 25 | Move into Summer housing assignment |
| June 26 or 27 | Ready, Set, Roar!* |
| June 30 | First day of classes |
| July 4 | July 4th Holiday (no classes) |
| August 1 | Last day of classes |
| August 2 | Move out of Summer housing assignment for students who do not have in-person final examinations |
| August 4 & 5 | Final examinations |
| August 6 | Move out of Summer housing assignment for students who had in-person final examinations |
*Summer Start students in the College of Science, College of Architecture, Art and Construction, College of Arts and Humanities, Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, and Exploratory Studies will be able to attend RSR! on June 26. Summer Start students in the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, College of Education, and College of Engineering, and Computing and Applied Sciences will be able to attend RSR! on June 27.
A Summer of Success
“Just having time over the summer to interact with professors one-on-one was a huge benefit for me. I understood learning techniques better and got a feel for teaching styles in a more controlled environment. I ended up loving the transition. It was really good for me and will guide my Clemson Experience as long as I’m here.”
Sarah Grace Malphrusart ’25
Contact Summer Start
First-Year Academic Programs
Phone: 864-656-6902
Email: summer.start@admission.clemson.edu
Clemson Office of Admissions
Phone: 864-656-2287
Email: apply@admission.clemson.edu
