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The VMI Summer Transition Program (STP) is designed to enhance the academic and physical fitness of incoming cadets before they officially matriculate in August. If you’ve committed to joining VMI, this program is for you!
Participants spend three weeks on post during Summer Session II, where they are able experience what it means to be at VMI: rigorous academics, camaraderie of life in barracks, meals together in Crozet Hall, physical training on the Parade Ground and around the VMI campus, and access to services and staff ready to help you succeed.
While this program is voluntary, all individuals who have committed to matriculate at VMI in August are invited and encouraged to attend STP.
Applications open April 15, 2025 for the 2025 Summer Transition Program.
NOTE: Appointed students who have completed both their Reservation & Medical Requirements will receive the STP registration link on a rolling basis, starting April 15 when the application opens. If you’ve completed all requirements and have not received the registration link within three business days, please contact us at admissions@vmi.edu.
Program Timeline
| Pre-Program | STP Begins | STP Ends |
|---|---|---|
| April 15: Application Opens June 18: Registration Closes, Payment Due by 12 p.m. Math Placement Test Scores are Due. |
July 7: Check-in at Barracks July 8: Classes begin |
July 25: Classes End. July 26: Final Exams (no exam in ERH-101). Check out from barracks by 3 p.m. |
Why STP?
Get to know post.
While some participants may have been on post for an informal visit or for an open house event, STP offers a new perspective at what life will be like once you matriculate. Get familiar with barracks and buildings around post. Visit the PX and the bookstore. Explore resources and study spaces in Preston Library.
Build lifelong bonds.
It is not unusual for roommates at STP to continue their friendship throughout their cadetships. The bonds formed at the Institute are unique, and STP offers a chance to start those relationships early, before the intensity of the Rat Line. At VMI, all cadets are equal and experience the same challenges and tests, but the bonds you form early may increase your resiliency and success along that journey.
Advance your academic goals.
With continued recognition as a top undergraduate college in the nation, VMI prides itself on a rigorous academic program across the humanities and STEM disciplines. VMI requires courses across many departments and disciplines, and STP gives you a chance to get one required class completed before your rat year begins.
Harness your strength.
STP students will participate in physical training exercises that mimic many of the activities and tests of strength and endurance covered in rat training and the VMI Fitness Test (VFT). STP offers participants a chance to continue to prepare for the physical demands that are required of all rats and cadets, which will start on Matriculation Day in August.
More about STP:
Those four weeks were good for me mentally, adjusting and getting ready for what was coming in August. Meeting a lot of my brother rats in the summer was really cool, because on Matriculation Day, I recognized so many people. It was a big advantage and a big motivator. Like, I can make it through this, I've got already friends here.