Elon University offers Alternative Start Programs to provide unique pathways for students to transition into college life. These programs support students who may not initially meet standard admission criteria by offering structured academic experiences designed to foster success. Participants begin their studies either on campus or abroad, earning college credits while benefiting from faculty mentorship and academic resources. After meeting specific GPA and conduct requirements, students transition into full-time, degree-seeking enrollment at Elon. These programs reflect the university’s commitment to accessible education and student success.
Elon Bridge
Elon Bridge is a specialized alternative start program designed for applicants whose academic profiles fall just below Elon University’s standard admission criteria. This structured cohort-based experience welcomes up to 50 non-degree-seeking students each fall, and it is an opportunity for students to demonstrate academic readiness while earning 16 credit hours. Participants live on Elon’s campus, fully immersing themselves in university life, and take courses taught by Elon faculty, with a curriculum tailored to foster academic growth and success. Those who meet Elon’s transfer admission requirements by the end of the fall semester seamlessly transition into full-time, degree-seeking enrollment in the winter/spring, ensuring a smooth and supportive pathway into the university.
Elon Global Start
Elon Global Start (EGS) is a unique first-semester abroad program that offers students a pathway to full-time, degree-seeking enrollment at Elon University in the spring semester. Designed for a cohort of up to 25 students, EGS provides an immersive international experience for those who do not initially meet regular admission criteria but are eager to join the Elon community in North Carolina. Accompanied by an Elon faculty member and an on-site coordinator, students earn 17 college credits while studying in Dublin, Ireland. This transformational opportunity aligns with Elon’s commitment to developing global citizens through engaged, experiential learning. By living and studying abroad, students gain a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, expand their global perspective, and cultivate the skills needed to become informed leaders in an interconnected world. Students who fulfill Elon’s transfer admission requirements by the end of the fall semester seamlessly transition into full-time, degree-seeking enrollment in the spring, providing a structured and supportive entry into university life.