Preparatory Enrollment Program

Student outside RIC building with backpack on

The Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP) is a bridge program for Rhode Island first-generation high school students – supporting their admission to RIC and their development as a RIC student. First-generation high school seniors can apply to the program via RIC's Common Application. The deadline to apply is February 1 of senior year.

Apply Through the RIC Common Application

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This Preparatory Enrollment Program places a strong emphasis on first-year support services to lay the foundation for student success. PEP students engage in a summer transition program, individual advising, and weekly programming in an affirming environment that values the diversity of individual experiences and honors the legacy of first-generation students. Apply to the PEP program, where you can be valued for who you are and the journey you're on.

“The PEP program provided me with a community and the support I needed at RIC during my first year. I made a bond with other students during the summer, and my advisor is helpful whenever I have questions or need assistance with anything.”

– PEP Student

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How to Apply and Enroll

The deadline to apply for the Preparatory Enrollment Program is February 1, during a student’s high school senior year. Here are the step you'll take: 

Enrollment Activities in 3 Phases

Phase 1: April/May During Senior Year

Group Enrollment Meetings

Incoming PEP Scholars will participate in a group enrollment meeting to review essential information regarding the transition to college. Students may bring a parent or guardian to the enrollment meeting and are encouraged to ask any questions that they have about the program or about RIC. The meeting is an opportunity for scholars to begin to meet their peers and build a community.

Phase 2: Late June

Orientation and PEP Welcoming Event

Orientation is a 2-day overnight experience designed to familiarize students with the campus facilities, college resources and services. Students will also select their fall classes during Orientation.

Phase 3: End of June–First Week in August

Summer Bridge Program

The Summer Bridge Program includes these courses, services, and events:

COLL 150 Course

This 3-credit course is designed to use leadership theory and experiential learning as guiding pedagogical practices to help students reflect on who they are and who they want to be. Students will have the opportunity to frame and define what leadership, education, and success means for them.

Math 010

Based on the Math Placement results; students will have the option to enroll in Math 010 at no cost. PEP will provide the textbooks and materials for the course.

Pre-Fall Advising

Students meet with their PEP advisor to review fall course schedules and set goals, as well as discuss financial aid and/or billing questions.

PEP Community Events

During the summers you will participate in community meetings, the Annual Summer BBQs, and other weekly team building activities to ensure students have the chance to form a connection to each other and the RIC community.

Please Note: The Summer Bridge program is funded by Rhode Island College and is at no cost to the student. To be fully enrolled as a PEP student you must participate in Summer Bridge.

Proven Results

Rhode Island College entrance

Contact Us

Precious Kafo

Project Director II

Preparatory Enrollment Program

Gloria V. Joseph

Assistant Project Director

Preparatory Enrollment Program (PEP)