Bridge to College

For adults interested in college and pursuing higher education, the Community Learning Center (CLC)’s Bridge to College Program offers a free opportunity to prepare for college-level coursework and earn college credits. This program is designed to help adult learners enhance their reading, writing, and math skills while also developing essential computer and study skills. By participating in this program, students gain the tools they need to transition to college and pursue their higher education goals.

To participate in the Bridge to College Program, students must meet specific eligibility criteria. Participants must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency degree, possess a high level of English proficiency, and commit to attending evening classes regularly from September to June. The program is open to Cambridge residents, as well as individuals from select nearby cities.

Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:15 to 9:15 p.m., both in-person and online. Given the rigorous nature of the coursework, students should have strong English grammar and vocabulary skills, as they will be required to write five paragraph essays regularly. The program features small class sizes, personalized tutoring support, and educational and career advising services to help students stay on track and succeed.

The Bridge to College Program is now recruiting for the 2025-2026 cohort, which begins in September. To apply, prospective students must attend an information session to determine if the program is a good fit for them. Following the session, applicants will have an interview with the program advisor to assess their clear desire and plan to go to college. They will also complete assessments in math, reading and writing to determine eligibility.

The CLC, a division of the City’s Department of Human Service Programs, welcomes adult learners from all backgrounds. Many participants in the Bridge to College Program are immigrants who have not experienced the U.S. education system. This program provides them with valuable exposure to college-level work.

Ava Kiem, the Bridge to College advisor, has worked with the program for two years and plays a crucial role in guiding students through the transition to college. She helps them apply to college and register for classes, while also conducting monthly check-ins to ensure their progress.

A key component of the Bridge to College Program is its strong support system. Students have access to free tutoring services and mentorship from former students who have successfully navigated the transition to college.

According to Kiem, the program has had a profound impact on students, helping them build confidence and articulate their aspirations. “This program has helped many students gain self-confidence,” Kiem shared. Now, these students can talk about their hopes and dreams and work toward making them a reality.

By providing a supportive and structured learning environment, the program empowers students to take charge of their future and embrace the opportunities that come with higher education.For people interested in college and pursuing higher education, the Bridge to College Program offers a free opportunity to earn college credits and prepare for college-level coursework. This program is designed to help students enhance their reading, writing, and math skills while also developing essential computer and study skills. By participating in this program, students gain the tools they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.

To participate in the Bridge to College Program, students must meet specific eligibility criteria. Participants must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency degree, possess a high level of English proficiency, and commit to attending evening classes regularly from September to June. The program is open to Cambridge residents, as well as individuals from select nearby cities.

Classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:15 to 9:15 p.m., with both in-person and online components. Given the rigorous nature of the coursework, students should have strong English grammar and vocabulary skills, as they will be required to write five-paragraph essays regularly. The program features small class sizes, personalized tutoring support, and educational and career advising services to help students stay on track and succeed.

The Bridge to College Program will begin recruiting for the 2025-26 cohort in spring 2025. To join, prospective students must first attend an information session to determine if the program is a good fit for them. Following the session, they will complete assessments in math, reading, and writing to determine their eligibility.

Additionally, an interview with the Community Learning Center (CLC) program staff is required. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by mid-August.

If a student has already earned a degree in another country, they may not need to attend university again. Those unsure of their degree’s equivalency in the U.S. can use a free online degree equivalency tool to determine how their credentials compare.

The Community Learning Center (CLC) established the Bridge to College Program in 1998 to support students transitioning from the CLC and similar educational backgrounds into college. Many participants are immigrants who have not experienced the U.S. education system, and this program provides them with valuable exposure to college-level work.

Ava Kiem, the Bridge to College advisor, has worked with the program for two years and plays a crucial role in guiding students through the transition to college. She helps them apply to Bunker Hill Community College (BHCC) and register for classes, while also conducting monthly check-ins to ensure their progress. The program is associated with BHCC, and while students can take classes there after completing the Bridge Program, they are responsible for tuition costs.

A key component of the Bridge to College Program is its strong support system. Students have access to free tutoring services and mentorship from former Bridge students who have successfully navigated the transition to college. Given that many participants are adult learners with jobs and family responsibilities, balancing education with life commitments can be challenging. However, the program is designed to provide the support the students need to overcome these obstacles.

According to Kiem, the program has had a profound impact on students, helping them build confidence and articulate their aspirations. “This program has helped many students gain self-confidence,” Kiem shared. Now, these students can talk about their hopes and dreams and work toward making them a reality.

The Bridge to College Program also offers a newsletter that highlights student success stories, further inspiring participants to strive for their goals. Many students, particularly immigrants, find the program to be a crucial steppingstone in achieving their educational and career aspirations.

Kiem hopes to see the program grow, with expanded access, increased outreach, and gain additional resources to help even more students succeed. “They start envisioning their goals and what career they want to pursue, and it brings a lot of people hope,” she said.

Pursuing higher education can be challenging, especially when financial constraints are a concern. However, it is a crucial step in personal and professional growth. Programs like Bridge to College help students develop the skills and confidence necessary to navigate the educational system and achieve their long-term goals. By providing a supportive and structured learning environment, the program empowers students to take charge of their future and embrace the opportunities that come with higher education.

To learn more and sign up for an information session, visit www.cambridgema.gov/BridgeToCollege or call the CLC at 617-349-6363.