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Group of students walking down a path on campus

Diverse Achievers Program

Lehigh University values a diverse, inclusive and vibrant campus community, and we believe the best way for a student to learn whether a university is a good fit is by spending time on campus. This is why we offer select high school seniors from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to immerse themselves in life at Lehigh for two days and one night through our fully funded overnight program, the Diverse Achievers Program (DAP). This year DAP will be held from Saturday, October 21, 2023 to Sunday, October 22, 2023.

Throughout the weekend participants will connect with current students, learn about available services, explore academic opportunities and enjoy dinner and fun at one of our local attractions.

We encourage you to apply for DAP if:

  • the distance or cost would otherwise prevent you from visiting campus
  • you want to learn how your diverse perspective will be valued at Lehigh
  • a supportive LGBTQ community is important to you
  • you are a first-generation college-bound student and/or
  • you are committed to contributing to an equitable and inclusive college experience

Required items:

Application materials are due by 11:59 p.m. EDT on Friday, September 15, 2023. Only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered. Students selected for the program will be notified of their selection by our office. The decision regarding your application to the Diverse Achievers Program is not indicative of the potential outcome should you submit a general application to Lehigh University.

If you have any questions, please contact the Diversity Recruitment Team at LUDiversity@lehigh.edu.

Please remember that due to the selective nature of the program, we are unable to accommodate all students who submit applications. Priority will be given to students that have not yet visited campus. Those unable or not selected to attend DAP are still encouraged to participate in one of our ongoing visit opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all students must show proof of vaccination from the COVID-19 virus. We are unable to accept negative COVID-19 and/or exemption paperwork as a substitution. Please note, this is a program-specific requirement, the University no longer requires proof of vaccination from students. Due to the nature of the program, additional requirements are necessary.

Yes, students may be housed on campus with a host, or in a fully funded hotel with a parent/guardian.

Yes, students will be with Lehigh student workers and professional staff for the entirety of the program.

All activities, meals, transportation, and housing are paid for by Lehigh University. Students are welcome to bring extra spending money if they would like to make a purchase at the Lehigh Store.

Participants should dress appropriately for fall weather in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Some activities will take place outside so students should bring a jacket or coat and comfortable shoes.

Yes, all dietary restrictions are considered prior to menus being created to ensure all students are able to enjoy every meal.

Transportation will be provided from the airport or bus station.

Lehigh University will purchase direct flights and bus trips to and from campus. We are unable to purchase plane or bus tickets to any other destination. Students who drive themselves to campus will be reimbursed for mileage after the program. Please note that travel reimbursements can take up to four weeks to process.

A formal agenda will be sent out a week prior to the program. Participants can expect to connect with several Lehigh community members, tour campus and explore the Lehigh Valley.

No, all participants must attend the entirety of the program. Students from the west coast will arrive Friday, October 20, 2023 due to the length of their flights. All other students must be on campus by check-in on Saturday, October 21, 2023. Check-in will be from 11 a.m. -12:30 p.m.

The Diverse Achievers Program is specifically for students. However, parents are able to join their students at Open House on Sunday, October 22, 2023 if they register for the event.