The Royal Bridge Program

Royal Bridge: get a head start at Bethel

Royal Bridge is a summer program and online course designed to help you start college strong. If you're the first in your family to go to college, new to the Twin Cities, multilingual, or just feeling a little unsure about college life—this program gives you a jumpstart. You’ll get to:

• Take an early college class in a supportive environment

• Get to know campus before everyone else arrives

• Connect with professors, mentors, and future classmates

• Learn what college is really like, but with a smaller group and less pressure

How it works

Take a class

Introduction to the Bible (BIB101) is a 4-credit class that most Bethel students take during their first semester. But you'll take it early, with built-in support and fewer distractions. You'll do one week of on-campus learning and have through August 12 to complete your course. Online work can be completed whenever it fits with your schedule. 

Spend time on campus

You'll live on Bethel's campus July 18-23, 2027. You'll do group activities, get to know where things are located, have group discussions about what you're learning in class, and get settled into college life. 

Gain skills and confidence

• Tips on managing time, money, and stress in college

• Help with figuring out your major and career goals

• Guidance on how to connect to student clubs, faith groups, leadership, etc.

• Mentoring connections you'll have throughout your first three semesters at Bethel

• Real talk about faith, growth, and belonging—no pressure, just space to explore

Who it's for

The Royal Bridge program is designed for new Bethel students who have zero or very few college credits. If you’re Pell-eligible—which means you qualify for extra financial help—you’ll get full tuition coverage for the summer class.

What it costs

Free residential week

You’ll get free housing, meals, and activities while you're on campus.

Class tuition

The class (BIB101) costs $2,688, but financial aid may be available.

Schedule

• On campus: July 18-23, 2027

• Online: 2.5 weeks (after the on-campus program)

• First three semesters: Stay connected with your mentors and peers as you settle into life at Bethel

Let us know you're interested!

Eligible students will be personally invited to participate in Royal Bridge. You can reserve a spot soon after you're accepted to Bethel.

A link to learn more will be added here soon. Please reach out to royal-bridge@bethel.edu if you have any questions before then!