Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if the on-campus program is canceled?
If the on-campus program is canceled due to COVID-19 concerns, admitted students who paid the enrollment deposit will be automatically switched to an online program. Students who do not wish to participate in our online program will receive a 50% refund of their enrollment deposit.

What is Smith College’s COVID-19 response plan?
Please visit our Culture of Care website to learn more about navigating on-campus life during COVID-19. 

How will I know if a change has been made to the Precollege Programs’ COVID-19 Safety Plan?
The COVID-19 Safety Plan for Smith Precollege Programs will be shared in early summer and includes the requirement that all Precollege Program participants, staff and faculty must be fully vaccinated (plus booster) prior to arrival on campus this summer. Major updates prior to the summer will be shared on our website and by email. Information about the current Smith College campus plan can be found on our Culture of Care website.

What happens if I decide to withdraw from the on-campus program?
If you withdraw from any of our programs you are not refunded the application fee or the enrollment deposit.

I live near Smith; may I commute?
Smith precollege programs are residential, and there are no commuters. Living away from home with your friends in the program is a great learning experience (plus a lot of fun).

Will I have a roommate?
Possibly. We have single and double rooms. If you need special accommodations you will be able to indicate that on an accepted student form after you have enrolled in the program.

Can I have visitors?
Yes, but not inside of the houses where you will live. This is subject to change given COVID safety protocol and the Culture of Care on campus. Houses are open only to Smith College precollege students and staff—no off-campus visitors are allowed under any circumstances. Information will be provided to accepted students prior to your arrival detailing the check-in and check-out protocols.

What if I miss home?
We expect some participants to feel homesick. When you arrive at Smith on that first Sunday, you’ll see that our staff is prepared to help you. We’ll greet you, assist you in settling into your room, give you a campus tour, sit with you during dinner and introduce you to new friends. The next morning, we will escort you to your first class, and you’ll be on your way. The Summer at Smith staff is here for you. Our professional and college student staff members know what it’s like to be away from home for the first time and are here to listen and support you through your journey in our program.

What’s the weather like in Northampton?
New England weather is unpredictable. We recommend that you bring clothes suitable for cool nights and hot days, and prepare for rain.

Can I receive mail while in the program?
Yes. It will be delivered to the houses as we receive it. Precollege Programs is not responsible for any lost mail nor the tracking of mail. We will not assist in sending mail or returning packages. Please keep in mind that all mail is delivered first to a central processing center, which adds an extra few days to your expected delivery time.

People may send mail to:
[Student’s name]
[Program Title e.g., Creative Writing]
Office of Precollege Programs
30 Belmont Avenue
Northampton, MA 01063