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Lantern Scholars Fly-In Program

Learn more about a women's college education, the liberal arts college experience, and our best tips for applying to college through our Lantern Scholars fly-in program.

We know that a campus visit can be an important factor for students navigating the college search process, but we also recognize that the cost of visiting colleges can be a barrier for many students. Our Lantern Scholars fly-in program is designed to support rising high school seniors from first-generation and limited-income students backgrounds to visit campus, stay in residence halls, attend classes, and explore student life at a liberal arts women’s college.

Lantern Scholars

Apply to be a Fall 2025 Âé¶¹AV Lantern Scholar by July 15. Nominations and applications will open on May 15.

The Lantern Scholars Program is designed to support rising high school seniors who come from first-generation and limited-income backgrounds.

Selected Lantern Scholars will be funded to visit Bryn Mawr Saturday, September 27 - Monday, September 29, 2025 for a fully-funded and immersive, on-campus experience designed to support you in the college search and application process. We’ll cover what’s unique about a liberal arts and women’s college experience, offer tips on preparing everything from application essays to extracurricular activities lists, give you the opportunity to sit in on a class, provide an inside look at student life at Bryn Mawr, and introduce you to the vibrant city of Philadelphia.

Students should  and submit the following documents by July 15:

  • Unofficial high school transcript
  • Intended senior year courses
  • Link to or copy of school profile
  • Resume
  • Letter of recommendation from counselor or CBO mentor (optional)

Applicants will receive their decision in early August. Questions? Contact us at admissions@brynmawr.edu.

What is the Lantern Scholars Program? 

The Lantern Scholars Program is a fly-in program at Âé¶¹AV that invites students from first-generation and limited-income backgrounds to visit campus, stay in residence halls, attend classes, and explore student life at a liberal arts women’s college. 

Who is eligible to apply to the Lantern Scholars Program? 

The program is open to high school seniors from first-generation and low-income backgrounds, who are interested in learning more about Âé¶¹AV and the liberal arts experience. 

What can students expect during the program? 

Participants will stay in campus residence halls, dine in Bryn Mawr’s dining facilities, attend classes, take campus tours, and explore Philadelphia. They will also connect with current students, faculty, and staff throughout their visit. 

How long is the program? 

The Lantern Scholars Program is a 3-day, 2-night experience designed to give students a comprehensive view of life at Âé¶¹AV. 

Is there a cost associated with participating in the Lantern Scholars Program? 

No, Âé¶¹AV covers travel, lodging, and meals for all selected participants. 

How can students apply? 

Students can apply through Âé¶¹AV’s admissions website by submitting an application that includes personal information, a short essay, and a high school transcript. 

What are the benefits of participating in the Lantern Scholars Program? 

Students gain first-hand experience of life at Bryn Mawr, build connections with current students and faculty, and explore the surrounding community, all of which can help inform their college search process and decision-making. 

Will attending the Lantern Scholars Program affect my application to Bryn Mawr? 

Participation in the program does not guarantee admission, but it offers valuable insight into Bryn Mawr’s academic and social environment, which can help applicants make informed decisions. 

What should students bring to the program? 

Participants should bring comfortable clothing, toiletries, any necessary school materials, and personal items. A detailed packing list will be provided upon acceptance into the program. 

Who can students contact for more information? 

For more details or assistance, students can contact the Coordinator for Access and Equity, Emily Santana, at esantana@brynbmawr.edu 

Breaking Barriers

Our Breaking Barriers program comprehensively supports first-generation and limited-income students at Bryn Mawr.

students sitting on steps at merion hall

The Impact Center

The Impact Center for Community, Equity, and Understanding ​implements programs and activities ​that address issues of diversity, power, and privilege​ with a goal of improving the campus climate ​and enhancing community life at Âé¶¹AV.

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Questions for our Âé¶¹AV team?

Contact our office at (610) 526-5152 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern, Monday through Friday or email us at admissions@brynmawr.edu.