SOAR X

Overview

SOAR X is Xavier University of Louisiana’s flagship pre-college program. Dr. J.W. Carmichael established the SOAR (Stress On Analytical Reasoning) program nearly 50 years ago, in 1977, with the goal of preparing high school students for the rigorous mathematical and scientific scholarship that would be expected of them as undergraduates.

Students will be asked to engage with advanced texts on complex ideas, work with partners and in groups to elucidate those ideas, and present their findings to the class in the form of papers, projects, and discussions. Each course offered in SOAR X is fundamentally student-driven—instructors work hard to ensure that students are invested in their learning by empowering them to select topics for research and discussion that they find compelling.

Advanced Academic Preparation:

Beginning in summer 2026, SOAR X will include multiple new pathways for earning college credit. Participation in one of these pathways is mandatory for rising 12^th grade students:

Academically eligible rising 12^th grade SOAR X participants may enroll in a three (3) credit hour course in lieu of one of their enrichment classes. This for-credit offering will be a 1000- or 2000-level humanities course emphasizing writing and critical thinking skills. Academic eligibility for concurrent enrollment will be determined in partnership with university admissions counselors. Students who wish to participate will need to submit their official transcripts and standardized test scores to Xavier Admissions. Interested students should refer to the Apply Now page for more information on program eligibility requirements. Seats are limited, and eligibility does not guarantee admission.

Students may enroll in a Modern States College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) preparation course in lieu of enrolling in a for-credit class. Modern States delivers self-paced, web-based review modules designed to prepare students for the CLEP. Passing the CLEP in a particular subject will earn students credit for a corresponding college course. Participation in a Modern States course is mandatory for 12^th graders who opt out of concurrent enrollment or are ineligible for concurrent enrollment. Rising 11^th graders may elect to enroll in a developmentally appropriate Modern States CLEP preparation course.

Beyond the Classroom

Exploratory Tracks

In summer 2025, SOAR X piloted several exploratory tracks that made learning an all-day, hands-on experience. These students were able to visit clinical* and laboratory sites to learn from professionals at the forefront of their fields. In 2026, we are expanding these exploratory tracks with the goal of matching every student to a track based on their career goals, personal interests, and academic preparedness. Students will be asked to rank these tracks in order of preference on their program application.

*Participation in the clinical track is restricted to rising 12^th graders participating in concurrent enrollment.

Social-Emotional Development

Although scholarship forms the core of the SOAR X experience, there is far more to the program than academics. SOAR X provides opportunities for participants to develop socially and emotionally to prepare them for college life.

SOAR X participants live with a roommate on Xavier’s campus for four weeks. They eat in the XULA Café, wash their clothes in the res hall laundry room, and exercise at the rec center. Campus activities like Aux Battle, HBCU Jeopardy, board games, karaoke, and more create time and space to kick back and connect. As a result, participants are able to adapt to the demands (and perks) of being away from home before leaving for college. They are guided through this simulation of the college experience by an incredible team of mentors—current students and recent graduates of Xavier— who have devoted their summers to inspiring a new generation of scholars. These mentors are intimately familiar with the challenges that college presents, and the combination of their lived experience and their specialized training equips them to assist participants with any challenge they might face during the program.

Cultural Excursions

SOAR X also places emphasis on building cultural connections between participants and the surrounding area. Xavier University of Louisiana is not located in a “college town,” where little to nothing of consequence happens off campus. Instead, we are blessed to learn and reside in New Orleans, a city whose history, diversity, and legendary cuisine make it one of the culturally richest places in the United States. SOAR X participants take full advantage of this cultural wealth by exploring the city on regular off-campus excursions.

 

SOAR X Amenities and Inclusions

Here are just a few of the perks program participants receive:

• 28 nights room and board in a residence hall on Xavier’s campus
• 19 meals per week at Xavier’s cafeteria, plus the occasional meal out
• A full slate of classes taught by experienced instructors
• Access to Xavier’s library, fitness center, and other campus amenities
• A myriad of excursions to exciting destinations around New Orleans

These amenities and inclusions make SOAR X an excellent value for the cost of tuition.

Program Outcomes

 

 

 

 

Payment & Important Dates

SOAR X is a residential program with both credit-bearing and non credit-bearing options. Tuition for the credit-bearing option is $2,900, and tuition for the non credit-bearing option is $2300.

This covers the cost of excursions, accommodations, and meals. We also suggest that students come to the program with money for food or other things they may need during the program. Please see our “Financial Aid” page for guidance on scholarships, payment options, and resources to help make our programs more accessible.

Summer 2026 dates for SOAR X are June 27 – July 25

SOAR X operates on a separate set of deadlines. Please reference below for important dates/deadlines: