Lincoln University Invites High School Juniors to Apply for Free One-Week Summer Camp

Lincoln University is accepting applications for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) SOAR HBCU Scholars Program, a free, one-week residential summer experience open to high-achieving high school juniors in the Class of 2027.

The program will take place June 21-26, 2026, on Lincoln's campus in Jefferson City. Through hands-on learning, workshops and campus engagement, participants gain early exposure to college life while exploring academic pathways, financial aid resources and career opportunities. The application deadline is May 15, 2026.

A transformative summer experience

Funded by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the TMCF SOAR Program is designed to help students build confidence, clarify goals and prepare for a successful transition to higher education-before their senior year begins. The experience is entirely cost-free for participants, with all housing and meals provided by the program.

Saint Rice, associate provost of undergraduate education and dean of University College, said the program is an opportunity for promising students to experience campus life and envision their future in higher education.

"The TMCF SOAR Program is about more than just a week on campus-it's about helping students see what's possible," said Rice. "We want high school juniors to arrive at Lincoln, engage with our community and leave with a clearer sense of their academic goals and the confidence to achieve them."

Eligibility and application process

To apply, students must submit a completed application form, an academic transcript, a 250- to 300-word personal statement, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher, administrator, advisor, coach or counselor.

Students must meet a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate academic promise and a strong desire to explore their college options.

A legacy of educational opportunity

This initiative supports Lincoln University of Missouri's mission as a historically Black, 1890 land-grant, public university that provides excellent educational opportunities to a diverse population. Founded in 1866 by the men of the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Infantries and their white officers to educate freed African Americans, Lincoln remains committed to access, innovation and student success in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Lincoln offers a student-centered environment with programs spanning agriculture, business administration, criminal justice, elementary education, guidance and counseling, natural science and nursing.

Apply today

The application deadline is May 15, 2026. Students are encouraged to take the first step toward their college career by applying early. For more information or to access the application, visit lincolnu.edu/admissions/soar or email [email protected].