When considering a college program, one of the most important factors to evaluate is the cost. At Pilots Pre-College, we believe in being transparent about the costs involved, as well as the incredible value your student will receive in return. Higher education, especially when it comes to enriching summer programs like Pilots Pre-College, requires an investment of both time and money. And while we know the financial commitment can feel daunting, we strive to ensure that the investment is meaningful and that your student gains an experience that is not only academically rewarding but also personally transformative. Let's take a closer look at how your investment in Pilots Pre-College is allocated and the many benefits that come with it.
Faculty Compensation
A significant portion of our program's revenue goes toward compensating the outstanding faculty who make each course truly special. Educators are the heart of any academic experience, and it’s important to recognize that their impact extends far beyond the classroom. 1 The faculty at Pilots Pre-College dedicate countless hours to preparing engaging lessons, mentoring students through challenges, and helping them develop essential skills for both their careers and personal lives. While no amount of compensation could fully reflect the value of their work, we strive to offer fair pay that attracts the best talent from the University of Portland. Our faculty are deeply committed to making a lasting impact on students, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more interconnected society.
Lodging & Dining
The on-campus experience during Pilots Pre-College is a key component of the program’s success. Staying on campus provides students with an immersive, community-driven environment that enhances both their academic and social growth. 2 Living close to their classrooms, study areas, and extracurricular activities ensures that students make the most of their time. In addition to the academic benefits, staying in air-conditioned housing ensures comfort during the summer months, allowing students to focus fully on their studies and activities. With all meals covered, students have one less thing to worry about and can dive deeper into the experience, knowing that their daily logistics are taken care of. This stress-free environment sets the stage for a memorable and enriching summer, laying a solid foundation for future academic success.
Course Logistics
The Pilots Pre-College experience goes beyond classroom lessons, incorporating course materials and exciting field trips that bring learning to life. We provide all necessary course materials, ensuring students are well-prepared and able to fully engage with the curriculum. Beyond the classroom, field trips and excursions offer students hands-on learning experiences, allowing them to connect academic theories to real-world applications. These enriching activities help students broaden their horizons, challenge their perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects they are studying. Together, these components create a dynamic, immersive environment where intellectual and personal growth can thrive.
Extra-Curricular Activities
In addition to the academic curriculum, Pilots Pre-College offers a variety of community-building activities and co-curricular workshops that enhance the overall experience. Students have the opportunity to bond with their peers through fun and engaging events like game or movie nights, helping to build lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. Co-curricular workshops on career pathways, leadership fundamentals, and character development provide students with the tools they need to succeed in the future. Furthermore, students are introduced to a variety of university resources, such as the Center for Gender & Sexuality and Health, the library, and digital labs, ensuring they are prepared for the resources available to them in a university setting. These activities not only support students’ academic growth but also foster their personal development and set them up for success in college and beyond.
Affordability
At Pilots Pre-College, we are committed to making higher education more accessible and affordable for all students. The program offers several cost-saving opportunities, starting with a unique UP undergraduate scholarship. This scholarship covers the entire cost of Pilots Pre-College for students who later enroll at the University of Portland, effectively offsetting the program’s cost through a four-year tuition waiver. Additionally, we are proud to offer a $2,500 scholarship to students from Catholic high schools across the country. This scholarship is automatically applied when students select their respective Catholic high school on the application, reducing the total cost of attending Pilots Pre-College to just $1,500—no extra paperwork or codes required. These financial supports are designed to help alleviate the financial burden of higher education, ensuring that your student’s readiness for college is never a barrier to their future success.
Conclusion
While the investment in Pilots Pre-College may feel like a significant commitment, the value your student gains in return is well worth it. From exceptional faculty and immersive on-campus experiences to comprehensive course materials and enriching extra-curricular activities, the program provides a well-rounded, transformative experience. Coupled with generous scholarships and cost-saving opportunities, Pilots Pre-College makes higher education more accessible and attainable. We hope that this overview has helped clarify the costs involved and highlighted the incredible opportunities your student will have during this enriching two-week summer program.
References:
- McKnight, "How Faculty Compensation Can Impact the Quality of Higher Education," S. McKnight, accessed March 28, 2025, https://www.smcknight.com/how-faculty-compensation-can-impact-the-quality-of-higher-education/
- "Benefits of Living On Campus," University of Portland, accessed March 28, 2025, https://www.up.edu/residencelife/about/benefits-on-campus.html
