BUCS Academy

Start strong. Start early. Start together.

Mary V. Jordan Center

BUCS Academy is a three-week residential summer academic launch program for incoming first-year ETSU students, held July 18 through August 7.

Students who live on campus during the academic year must enroll in the BUCS Living-Learning Community for both the fall and spring semesters. This allows students to continue living together and to build on the relationships and routines they established during the summer.

Participants also receive continued engagement and structured support through the Jordan Center throughout their first year.

Students who plan to commute during the academic year are exempt from the Living-Learning Community requirement, but all BUCS students live on campus during the three-week summer program.

Students in BUCS Academy: 

  • Move to campus early
  • Live on campus during the program
  • Take a 3-credit academic course
  • Build college-level study habits
  • Learn how to navigate campus resources
  • Form friendships before the rest of the first-year class arrives
  • Begin the year already connected

BUCS Academy allows students to begin their college experience with momentum, structure, and a built-in community that continues throughout the first year.

  • Cost and Financial Information

    There is no cost to students or families to participate in the three-week BUCS Academy program.
    Tuition for the three-credit course, on-campus housing during the program, and meals provided as part of the program are covered.

    To attend BUCS Academy, students must: 

    • Be enrolled at ETSU for the fall semester
    • Complete the FAFSA

    These requirements are not necessary to apply, but they must be completed before participating in the program. Students are responsible only for personal expenses.

  • What the BUCS Experience Looks Like 

    BUCS Academy is structured, but it is not rigid.

    Students attend a daily academic course and participate in scheduled study time designed to help them build effective college habits from the beginning. Peer leaders and staff provide guidance, support, and accountability throughout the program.

    Outside of class and study time, students participate in activities that introduce them to campus resources, the surrounding community, and one another. The goal is not just to complete a course, but to develop confidence, independence, and a clear understanding of how to navigate college successfully.

    By the time the fall semester begins, BUCS students are not trying to figure out where they belong. They already know. 

  • Who Should Apply?

    BUCS Academy is designed for students who want a structured and supported start to college.

    It is a strong fit for students who: 

    • Want to begin the semester with confidence
    • Prefer clear expectations and steady routines
    • Value connection and community
    • Want to earn credit and build academic habits before the fall
    • Are open to growth and ready to take their first semester seriously 

    BUCS Academy brings together students from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Some are the first in their families to attend college. Some are coming from small schools. Some are coming from large ones. Some simply want a smoother transition. 
    If you are looking for a way to begin college grounded, connected, and prepared, BUCS Academy may be a good place to start. 

2026 BUCS Academy Application and Timeline

Application Opens: February 16, 2026
Priority Deadline: April 19, 2026
Program Dates: July 18 - August 7, 2026

    • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and selection is based on the submitted application.
    • BUCS Academy enrolls 50 students.
    • Students are encouraged to apply early.
    • Students may apply before completing the FAFSA or enrolling for the fall semester. However, to participate in BUCS Academy, students must be enrolled at ETSU for the fall term and have a completed FAFSA on file.
    • Selected students will receive confirmation and next steps by June 1

Ready to Apply?

The BUCS Academy application is now open. Click on 'Apply Now' and fill out the application form.

Apply Now

Reach out to us with any questions
BUCSAcademy@etsu.edu
423-439-4844


 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is BUCS Academy required for first-year students?
    No. BUCS Academy is an optional program for incoming first-year ETSU students.
  • Do all students live on campus during the program?
    Yes. All students live on campus during the three-week summer program, including those who plan to commute during the academic year. 
  • Do I have to live in the BUCS Living-Learning Community during the academic year?
    Students who live on campus during the academic year are required to enroll in the BUCS Living-Learning Community for both fall and spring. Students who commute during the academic year are exempt.
  • Is BUCS Academy remedial?
    No. BUCS Academy includes a three-credit academic course and is designed to help students begin college with structure and confidence.
  • Is there a cost to participate?
    No. Tuition for the three-credit course, housing during the three-week summer program, and program meals are covered. Students are responsible only for personal expenses. Housing and meal costs during the academic year are billed separately through ETSU.
  • Can I apply before completing the FAFSA or enrolling at ETSU?
    Yes. Students may apply before completing the FAFSA or enrolling for the fall semester. However, both must be completed before participating in the program.
  • How many students are selected?
    BUCS Academy enrolls 50 students.
  • Is there an interview?
    No. Selection is based on the submitted application.