Residential Summer Program
Live on campus. Prepare with purpose. UA ACTivate is a residential program on campus that combines ACT prep with the college experience.
During your stay, you will:
- Strengthen ACT test-taking strategies
- Explore UA’s academic and student support resources
- Gain insight into admissions, majors and campus life
From test prep to college admissions, UA ACTivate helps you feel confident, prepared and at home — before you even apply for college.
This program is for high school sophomores and juniors, aged 16 and older. Registration will open Feb. 1, 2027.
The cost to attend is $799, which covers lodging, all meals, test prep materials and any student activities. Prior to each UA ACTivate session, students and parents are required to attend a virtual overview and Q&A session. On the first day of camp move-in, parents and students must attend a mandatory, 2-hour orientation to help ensure UA ACTivate is a positive and beneficial experience for each participant.
Payment is due upon registration. Once registration is completed, students will receive follow-up information regarding summer move-in dates, roommate assignments, the daily schedule, a list of camp activities and more.
Camp Schedule includes the following activities
- 15 hours of structured, test preparation activities
- 6 hours of college readiness and University of Alabama admissions and campus life activities
- Test prep guides and online resources
- Access to practice tests
Important Dates
Camp #1: June 14-17
- Monday, June 14 – Move-In Day & Orientation Activities
- (Parents/Guardians should be prepared to spend some of the day participating in required orientation-related activities.)
- Tuesday, June 15 – Workshop Day #1
- Wednesday, June 16 – Workshop Day #2
- Thursday, June 17 – Workshop Day #3 (Ends at noon)
- Move-Out Day (Move-out must occur by 3 p.m. Central time)
Camp #2: June 28-July 1
- Monday, June 28 – Move-In Day & Orientation Activities
- (Parents/Guardians should be prepared to spend some of the day participating in required orientation-related activities.)
- Tuesday, June 29 – Workshop Day #1
- Wednesday, June 30 – Workshop Day #2
- Thursday, July 1 – Workshop Day #3 (Ends at noon)
- Move-Out Day (Move-out must occur by 3 p.m. Central time)
UA ACTivate Frequently Asked Questions
Does UA ACTivate guarantee an increase in my ACT score?
No. While our instructors work diligently to provide proven test-taking strategies, content review, and tips for success on the ACT, UA ACTivate does not guarantee a score increase.
Where will I stay during UA ACTivate?
UA ACTivate provides students with a residential campus experience. Participants will stay in one of The University of Alabama's residence halls during the program.
For more information about campus housing and residence hall amenities, please visit the UA Housing website.
What should I pack for UA ACTivate?
We recommend packing lightly and efficiently. Suggested items include:
- Comfortable, layered clothing
- Closed-toe shoes
- Water bottle
- Toiletries
- Bed linens
- Rain jacket and/or umbrella
- Backpack
- Notebook
- Calculator
A detailed packing list will be provided during the required virtual orientation session held prior to the program.
May I choose my roommate?
During registration, you may request to room with one or more friends who are also attending UA ACTivate. While we make every effort to honor roommate requests, placement is not guaranteed.
Are meals included?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the program registration fee.
Students may also wish to bring snacks and beverages to enjoy in the residence halls or between scheduled meals.
Is the program focused solely on ACT preparation?
No. ACT instruction and the practice test account for approximately 13 hours of the UA ACTivate experience.
In addition to academic preparation, students will participate in campus tours, interactive activities, and presentations from guest speakers, offering a broader introduction to The University of Alabama.
Will move-in and move-out times be assigned?
Yes. Students will receive designated move-in and move-out times prior to arrival.
To ensure an efficient check-in and check-out process, we ask families to arrive as close to their assigned times as possible. Upon arrival, please unload your belongings promptly and move your vehicle to a designated parking area. Families are then welcome to return and assist with room setup at their own pace.
Does participation in UA ACTivate guarantee admission to The University of Alabama?
No. Participation in UA ACTivate does not influence admission decisions. Admission to The University of Alabama is determined through the university’s standard admissions process and is independent of enrollment in this program.
Do I need to provide references to attend UA ACTivate?
Yes. Applicants are required to provide two references: a high school counselor and either a principal or teacher.
Please do not list family members as references. We also recommend notifying your references in advance that they may be contacted by a member of the UA ACTivate staff.
Does UA ACTivate offer scholarships?
Not at this time. Currently, UA ACTivate does not offer scholarship opportunities for participants.
Is there an age limit to participate in UA ACTivate?
Yes. Students must be 16 years of age at the time UA ACTivate begins.
Want to learn more about UA ACTivate? Contact us at crimsoncompass@ua.edu or 205-348-5275.