COMPASS FAQs for Students and Parents

Who is eligible to register for COMPASS?

Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in high school and incoming college freshmen who are in good academic standing and have no school suspensions are invited to apply.

When are the programs offered and how much do they cost?

All COMPASS 2026 programs will be available during the week of June 21-25. The price is $895 per week. Pricing includes meals, lodging and all scheduled activities.

Do I need to have any specific skill set for these programs?

The most important skill to possess is the passion to learn and a positive attitude! A basic English reading level is essential for each of these programs. In the Cybersecurity program, students will take a placement test on Monday morning to determine if they should be in the Standard or Advanced camp.

Can home-schooled students attend COMPASS?

Yes! Home-schooled students are encouraged to participate in COMPASS.

When is the registration deadline?

We will accept registrations on a rolling basis until space is filled in each program. It is best to apply early since programs can fill up quickly!

What are good times for my flight to arrive and depart if I am flying in for the week of COMPASS?

An email will be sent out to all registrants with a flight details form for you to fill out if you are flying into the Asheville (AVL) airport. Shuttles to and from campus will be offered based on your flight, if you fly into AVL. Ideally, you should plan to arrive on Sunday morning, June 21st, before 2:00 p.m. and depart on Thursday afternoon, June 25th, after 2:00 p.m., unless staying for our rising freshmen class orientation (Cav Connect Day) on Friday, June 26th, 2026.

Can I register for more than one program?

Because the programs run concurrently, students can only select one academic program track per week.

Is there a dress code?

Dress is casual, but please dress appropriately for the activities scheduled for your program. Registered students will receive a packing list in the Spring of 2026.

Is transportation to field trips included in registration fee?

Transportation to and from all off-site field trips will be included in the program cost.

Will I receive college credit for this program?

COMPASS Summer Experience programming is designed to enrich students’ understanding of a particular career path or field of study. COMPASS programs do not offer college credit.

Will COMPASS 2026 participants receive scholarships to Montreat College?

Students who attend COMPASS will receive a $2,000 scholarship! The scholarship will be spread over four years and will be awarded upon enrollment at Montreat College. There are an unlimited number of scholarships available for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors in high school.

What is the COMPASS refund policy?

You may cancel your registration and request a full refund through May 14, 2026. After that date, refunds will only be issued if Montreat College makes the decision to cancel the COMPASS program.

Will the cafeteria accommodate my dietary restrictions?

Yes! If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, please list these on your registration form. Aramark Food Service does a wonderful job accommodating those restrictions. If you have any issues or concerns during the week, you can talk with Aramark staff directly, and they will happily assist you.

When will my camper receive the schedule for the week?

Program schedules will be given at COMPASS check in. Check in will likely run from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, June 21st. Dinner will be served that evening, followed by an orientation session. Families are welcome to stay for dinner and the orientation program. Camp will officially begin at 7 p.m. which is when families are asked to leave.

Where can I find lodging outside of campus?

Montreat College partners with Black Mountain’s Hampton Inn to provide a 15% discount to your visit if you are traveling from afar or want to stay for more adventure in Black Mountain! Use code 0003227720 when purchasing hotel rooms.

Can I drive myself to campus for the week?

Yes! Students who have their driver’s license are allowed to drive themselves to camp! Please note that if you drive yourself to camp, you’ll be required to turn your car keys in to the COMPASS Director for the duration of the week. Student car keys will be kept in a secure location until Friday when camp concludes.

I have additional questions, who do I contact?

Please contact us via email admissions@[SITEURL] or via phone at 828.554.1520.