All new Meyerhoff Scholars take part in the Summer Bridge Program, a six-week residential program scheduled the summer before Meyerhoff Scholars enroll at the university. Students take credit courses in either pre-calculus or calculus (based on a placement test) and in African-American studies, as well as noncredit courses in chemistry, physics, study skills, and time management.

Summer Bridge enables students to experience the rigors of university instruction and testing, while earning seven credits even before their freshman year begins.

During the program, students visit technical and scientific sites in the Baltimore- Washington region, such as National Institutes of Health, the Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland School of Medicine, Northrop Grumman, and NASA/Goddard. These trips are designed to expose students to real science and technical environments and help them become aware of the nuances of being a researcher, engineer, or science professional.

Through the Summer Bridge Program, students begin to get to know each other and establish strong bonds, creating a valuable support system.