PRE@Mac
June 22-26, 2026
Your launchpad to college: we want to help you get there.
PRE@Mac is a free residential immersion into the college experience designed specifically for U.S. high school students graduating in 2027 or 2028 from historically under-represented communities in higher education. We’ll introduce you to the tools necessary to navigate a successful college search and application process that will set you up to thrive at your college home.
THE 2026 APPLICATION AND NOMINATION FORM WILL OPEN IN MID-FEBRUARY.
Contact [email protected] if you have questions about the program.
Sample of Past Sessions
| ACADEMIC | COMMUNITY & STUDENT EXPERIENCE | COLLEGE ADMISSIONS |
| Curious Minds, Purposeful Paths: What the Liberal Arts Offer Sample classes with Macalester faculty such as: Black Mirror: Using Speculative Design Fiction to Unpack Technological Harm, Dynamic Storytelling | We Demand!: Identity Exploration, Community Building & Student Organizing Student Voices, Shared Journeys: Mentor Roundtable | Own the Process: A College Admissions Breakdown Personal, Not Perfect: The Heart of the College Essay Inside the Room: A College Admissions Case Study |
Plus, As a PRE@Mac Scholar, you’ll live in a campus residential hall like a college student and be mentored by Macalester students!
Application Requirements
- Completed application form
- One letter of recommendation
- Unofficial transcript
SCHOOL & COLLEGE COUNSELORS: NOMINATE A STUDENT
Know of a student you think might greatly benefit from this experience? The nomination form opens in mid-February. Deadline is March 24. Students do not need to be nominated to apply.
FAQs
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When and where does PRE@Mac take place? PRE@Mac is an in-person program held at Macalester College in St. Paul.
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Who is it for? PRE@Mac is an opportunity for high school students graduating in 2027 or 2028 from backgrounds historically underrepresented in higher education, including BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color) students and those who would be the first in their family to attend college.
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What does it cost to attend Pre@Mac? PRE@Mac is 100% free to apply and attend for all selected participants. For those who are invited from out-of-state, Macalester will purchase your airfare as well as provide transportation to/from the airport and campus.
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What tools do I need? We will provide you with a list of supplies you’ll need to bring, and a list of the items supplied by Macalester.
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Will I have a roommate? Traditionally, participants will share a room in one of Mac’s residence halls with another program participant. You will be matched based on gender identity.
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Does Cafe Mac accommodate dietary restrictions? Yes! Cafe Mac provides vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options at all meals and we will work with our dining facilities regarding food allergies.
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How do I apply? Nomination and application forms open in March. Interested students should apply by using the Apply Now button found here when the application period is open. In addition to the form, you need to send in one letter of recommendation written by someone from your high school (such as a teacher, guidance counselor, or principal) or a college access advisor who can speak to both your academic ability and your involvement/responsibilities outside of school.
You do not have to be nominated to apply.
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How do I know if I am selected to participate? All applicants will be notified by email in late April.
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Can my parents attend? While we enjoy hosting parents, this program is designed to give you a sense of what the college experience will look like. We are unable to cover travel costs for parents and guests. If parents are in the area, they are welcome to attend the closing financial aid session.
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Do I have to sign something promising I’ll go to Macalester for college afterward? We certainly hope you’ll come to love Mac as much as we do, but this is about helping you find the college option that’s right for you—even if that’s not us.
Still curious? Send questions to [email protected]—we’d love to hear from you!