Academic Bridge Program
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact
The Academic Bridge Program (ABP) proudly marks its 25th anniversary, celebrating a legacy of empowering high-potential, first-generation college students. Since its founding in 2000, ABP has supported students from Dallas area schools who are the first in their families to pursue higher education.
ABP provides a comprehensive support system—including a pre-freshman summer program, a four-year housing scholarship, mentorship, and academic coaching that helps students successfully transition from high school to college.
Students who are selected for ABP begin their college career at UT Dallas during the summer following their high school graduation.
ABP serves approximately 120 students each year.
SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS
- Pre-freshman summer program (no cost) begins immediately after high school graduation.
- Small class sizes in the summer are combined with tutoring and supplemental instruction.
- On-campus housing is provided at no cost for four years.
- A meal plan is provided for the freshman year, followed by a stipend through senior year.
- Mentorship, campus leadership opportunities for four years.
A History of Student Success
25
ABP admits 25 students every summer.
85%
Over 85% are first in their families to attend college.
78%
More than 78% pursue degrees in STEM or business.
~90%
Approximately 90% of students come from Dallas ISD.
91%
Approximately 91 percent return as sophomores with at least a 2.5 GPA.
How ABP Works
ABP students have the opportunity to get a jump start on their college journey by participating in an 8-week pre-freshman residential program at UT Dallas. ABP students take credit-bearing courses, including Rhetoric, Communications, and one of the following math courses- Calculus, Pre-calculus, or College Algebra, based on their ALEKS score.
Classes are held Monday through Thursday. ABP conducts weekly meetings on Fridays, allowing ABP staff to track students’ progress, make recommendations, and proactively address any challenges.
All ABP students are required to attend math tutoring weekly.
Make a Difference
Your gift to the Academic Bridge Program will help Dallas-area college students attend college, complete their degrees and become successful professionals. Your support provides scholarships, tutoring and books for Academic Bridge Program students.