Semester Zero

Semester Zero is an immersive college preparatory summer experience exclusively designed for all rising 11th graders at College Track. Held at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, this unique opportunity provides scholars with a preview of college life, enriching learning experiences, connections with peers nationwide, and a chance to solidify their college-going aspirations.

All scholars in the class of 2028 are expected to attend Semester Zero and complete all preparation requirements:

• January: Attend Semester Zero Family Meeting at your site to learn more about our college immersion program
• March: Complete online registration forms
• June: Attend Pre-Travel Family Meeting to review all finalized travel logistics, program information, and scholar expectations
• July: Scholars travel to NAU for Semester Zero

College Track is delighted to offer this experience to all families free of charge. College Track and Northern Arizona University will cover transportation to and from, lodging, meals, co-curricular activities, and course offerings. Staff supervision is also provided.

• Stay tuned for ongoing/monthly updates from the site staff
• Participate in the pre-departure family session
• Ensure all required forms are submitted by the specified deadlines
• View and Download Packing List
• Ask questions

TSA does not require people under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.

We know this will be the first time many of our scholars travel by plane. We will explicitly walk you, your family, and staff through what to expect at each step of the journey. Scholars will be grouped into “chaperone groups” of no more than twelve scholars to one College Track staff member during travel.

Click here to view our comprehensive packing list.

While we expect scholars to participate in the entire week-long experience, emergencies may arise. Rest assured that in such cases, there will be adults available to chaperone you back home mid-week if absolutely necessary.

Each Site will have its own plan. Check with your Executive Site Director or Director of Programs for more information.

Scholar safety is our top priority.

• All scholars will be assigned to a small group with a dedicated staff member. Adult staff will provide consistent supervision at all times.
• All staff will be comprehensively trained to respond to a variety of safety situations.

Scholar safety is our top priority.

• All scholars are covered by College Track’s travel medical insurance.
• If a scholar needs medical attention, we will contact parents/guardians immediately and have a staff member provide dedicated attention to the scholar for the duration of the medical emergency and recovery.
• Urgent medical services during business hours is provided at NAU Campus Health Services. After-hours or emergency care is provided at Flagstaff Medical Center or a local urgent care facility.

Yes. Your parent or guardian must complete a Scholar Medical Authorization form, which must be submitted to your lead chaperone.

• Prescription medication must be in a container labeled by the pharmacist or prescriber.
• Non-prescription medication must be in the original container with the label intact.

Although we will provide masks, COVID tests, and hand sanitizer, we are treating COVID in the same manner as other viruses and contagious illnesses. In case someone falls ill during their time at Semester Zero, additional dorm rooms will be available for isolation purposes when needed. Subsequently, we will determine the safest and most efficient way to facilitate the individuals’ return home.

There are no plans to require COVID testing upon arrival to NAU.

Scholars will learn their room assignments during check-in at NAU.

Scholars will eat their meals at the Hot Spot, located in the University Union.

No, linens and towels will be provided. However, you may consider bringing your own pillow, blanket, or personal items to make it feel more like home.

Scholars will have access during scheduled recreation times.