.
Catalyst
The Catalyst Learning Community offers first-year Purdue students an exciting opportunity to start strong and thrive in college. Running from July 2026 to May 2027, this program begins with the Early Start summer session, where students earn up to 9 credits, form lasting friendships, and gain personalized support in a close-knit environment. With guidance from peer mentors, academic coaching, and skill-building activities, participants develop the confidence to excel. The journey continues into the fall with a 1-credit seminar, coaching, and community events to ensure long-term success. Join Catalyst and jumpstart your Purdue experience! This learning community is open to any student that participates in Early Start. This learning community also has scholarship opportunities.
1. Enter your application portal.
2. Select the Reply Forms tab. This tab typically becomes available 24-48 hours after accepting your offer of admission.
3. Complete the Early Start form.
4. Wait for the next steps email to arrive. It typically takes 48 hours for your student profile to update from Fall 2026 to Summer 2026 admission.
Eligibility
Residential Component
- Students will indicate interest in Learning Communities (LCs) and apply during their housing application process. Students will be informed of the status of their LC application in mid-May.
- Roommate selection will occur after LC decisions have been made. If admitted to an LC, students will need to match with other student(s) admitted to the same LC. If not selected for an LC, the student's original housing preferences will be considered during general housing placement and the student will be able to roommate match with other general housing students.
- The location of LC housing will be determined based on the incoming class size and the needs of the learning community.
- Students must begin at Purdue in July 2026, and be in the Early Start or Summer Start programs to participate.
- For specific question regarding learning communities, email learningcommunities@purdue.edu.
- If you have questions about housing, contact University Residences (https://www.housing.purdue.edu/) at housing@purdue.edu.
Duration
Associated Courses and Information
Summer 2026
GS 12000: Summer Seminar (1 credit hour)
Fall 2026
GS 12001: Summer Seminar II (1 credit hour)
Every fee eligible student involved with a learning community (LC) at Purdue will be assessed the $200 LC fee to their university account. These funds support activities and travel, signature LC events, housing assignments and/or course registration and instructor stipends.
Events and Activities Included:
· Cultural Center Festival
· University Talent Show
· Field Games (kickball, volleyball, spike ball, and more)
· Boilermaker Special Rides
· End of Summer Celebration and Fountain Run
· Women’s Basketball Game
Information above is subject to change. If you are placed in the LC, the associated courses will be on your schedule prior to you registering for the rest of your courses.
