College Now/START at UMass Dartmouth

The College Now/START program can help turn your dream of college into a reality. You may feel like you aren’t "college material." Perhaps you haven’t done well academically because of social or personal difficulties. Others may have discouraged you from applying to college.

A pathway to a college degree

Hundreds of students who once ruled out college are now UMass Dartmouth graduates, thanks to College Now/START. Through academic counseling, instruction, and individualized attention, the program helped them with admission to the university and supported them through their academic careers.

In the fall of 2024, over 170 students enrolled at the university through the College Now/START program. Because of all they have in common, College Now/START students become a close-knit group and a source of encouragement and support for one another.

College Now/START was there for these students—it can be there for you.

An academic support program

College Now/START helps students who could benefit from extra support. As a College Now student, you’ll be a full-time student with the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of all UMass Dartmouth students. Our Fall Academic Program will prepare you to perform to your fullest at the university. Counselors will aid you in goal setting, course selection, academic achievement, and short- and long-term program planning.

After successfully completing the Fall Academic Program, you will become a degree candidate and can major in UMass Dartmouth’s full range of academic programs.

Eligibility for College Now

The College Now program is for any major, but you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Every applicant must be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent U.S. resident, and have a minimum high school GPA of 2.0.  Once accepted, students will participate in virtual conversations focused on preparation for the fall semester.

Applicants should also satisfy one of the following criteria:

• low-income status (as defined by federal guidelines)
• first generation (first in immediate family to complete a 4-year degree)
• seeking additional support and resources to find success in college

Eligibility for START

START (Steps Toward Abstract Reasoning and Thinking) is a first-year program for students who are considering a calculus-based major but lack the necessary foundation at the beginning of their college careers. 

You must have a minimum high school GPA of a 2.0 to be eligible for admissions. During the standard application process, you may be referred to the START program.

Apply to START if you are interested in scientific and technical fields such as Engineering, Math, Computer Science, and Physics.

The transition from high school to college can be challenging and may require adjustments to ensure academic success and personal development. As a College Now/START student, you’ll benefit from a first-year experience consisting of a skill-building seminar course, academic development, and student support services.

First Year Seminar

UNV 101 - Introduction to the University will familiarize you with campus resources and services as you transition to college, and reinforce successful study strategies. You’ll also develop an appreciation for cultural diversity, and assess personal learning styles as you set academic, career, and personal goals. The course provides 3 academic credits.

Academic development

During the fall semester, you’ll be placed in courses based on your intended major and the results of your placement testing. Some of these classes may be developmental. To aid in your academic success, the program staff maintains ongoing communication with faculty.

Student support

You’ll be assigned a program counselor who will schedule regular meetings for your first year. The program counselor will provide support by:

• teaching the UNV 101 course
• monitoring your academic performance
• assisting you with academic advising
• promoting understanding of university resources, policies, and regulations

In addition to your program counselor, upper-level students will serve as peer mentors and tutors to offer support and guidance. Students will also work with tutors for their classes through the Academic Resource Center.