• Must be a member of the graduating class of 2027
• Must have a minimum of 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Must have an academic transcript (official or unofficial)
• Submit a letter of recommendation from an academic teacher, administrator, advisor, coach, or counselor at your school.
• Write a personal statement (250-300 words) responding to the following prompt:
  • Prompt: What are your short-term and long-term goals after high school? How can your participation in the TMCF SOAR Program assist you in achieving these goals? (Note: In your response, reflect on how your experiences have shaped your goals and motivation.

Current high school juniors (Class of 2027). Eligible students must participate in the program during the summer before their senior year.

The program will be held July 12, 2026 – July 17, 2026.

The program is FREE to all participants. The program will cover most expenses associated with the program, including housing, meals, materials, supplies, and activities. Travel expenses are not covered by the program.

During the week-long program, 100 participants will reside on the campus of The University of Alabama.

During the one-week program, 100 participants will reside in one of the dorms at The University of Alabama. Students will participate in seminars, develop team presentations, network with business professionals and HBCU alumni, interact with college students, and participate in workshops on college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, HBCUs, Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCCs), and more.

No, the program is open to all students interested in various types of colleges and universities, including HBCUs or community colleges.

No. The TMCF SOAR Summer Bootcamp is a residential, in-person program and cannot be attended virtually. However, students who are unable to attend the summer bootcamp may still participate as a Virtual TMCF SOAR Scholar during their senior year (August 2026 – May 2027) through the virtual sessions offered throughout the academic year.

If you would like to only participate as a virtual TMCF SOAR Scholar during your senior year (August 2026 – May 2027) instead of attending one of the summer bootcamps, please click the link provided in the Virtual TMCF SOAR Scholar section at the top of this page to complete the application.

All participants will be supervised by qualified and trained staff from multiple disciplines and at various levels of the university. Additionally, professional staff members will also live in the residence hall.

Students must complete the online application and submit all documents for consideration for the program at TMCF SOAR Application.

The application deadline is April 15, 2026 (Priority Deadline).  All supporting documents must be received by April 15, 2026.

Anyone interested in learning more about the TMCF HBCU Scholars Program should email tmcfsoar@sheltonstate.edu.

Shelton State is seeking mentors for the upcoming TMCF SOAR HBCU Scholars Program, taking place July 12–17, 2026. Mentors will play an important role in guiding program participants throughout the week, fostering leadership development, and helping create a positive and memorable experience for all involved. This is a paid opportunity.

The deadline to apply is March 20. Join us in helping shape the next generation of leaders!

Learn More and Apply!