Early Start Program
The Early Start Program is designed to give first-time traditional students valuable knowledge about the college journey. Registration launches for eligible admitted students in the applicant portal on February 17. CMU Scholars will have priority registration starting February 3.
You can cancel your ESP registration in your applicant portal by July 31 for a full refund. In the ESP section, click the maroon button and select 'cancel registration.'
Jump start your journey as a CMU Maverick | August 10-14
You will gain insight about how to be successful in college such as study skills, test-taking strategies and time management techniques. Your first class session is the afternoon of Sunday, August 10 and your class will continue to meet Monday-Thursday. New Mav Days, the official welcome for all new students, begins on Friday, August 15. The first day of the Fall 2025 semester is Monday, August 18.
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Early arrival and move-in
You will move in on Saturday, August 9. Then, you'll check in for your Early Start Program on Sunday, August 10 before your first class session that afternoon.
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Earn college credit
In Classic Early Start, you will complete the UNIV 101 First Year College Success course valued at two credit hours. If you are a Compass student, UNIV 101 will fulfill your UNIV 100 program requirement.
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Check out the exclusive academic program Early Start options below for business, health sciences and engineering students valued at one credit hour.
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Get settled on campus
Meet new friends, engage in Student Life events and get familiar with campus before the first day of the Fall 2025 semester on Monday, August 18.
The Early Start Program fee includes housing for on-campus residents, food and program materials. The program fee and tuition charge will be automatically added to your student account for Fall 2025.
Plus tuition cost of your class
Plus tuition cost of your class
Exclusive Academic Early Start Options
Check out the exclusive Early Start options for select academic disciplines. Space is limited and we encourage you to sign up as soon as possible when ESP registration launches. You must be admitted to the respective major or pre-major to be eligible to sign up.
Jump start your academic journey with faculty and peers from the Department of Engineering. You'll take ENGR 101 valued at one credit hour. Space is limited and we encourage you to sign up as soon as possible when ESP registration launches.
Contact your admissions counselor
Questions about the Early Start Program or your next steps to CMU? Our team is here to help.