Black College Institute FAQ
Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the Black College Institute program.
Every year, applications open no later than mid-December.
Every year, applications close on March 21, 2025.
No, the essay is part of the application. If you do not complete the essay, your application will be marked as incomplete.
Decisions will go out by the end of day on April 25, 2025.
You and your parents/guardians must complete the registration form, BCI VT-Medication Form, and BCI VT-Participant Emergency, health and media no later than May 09, 2025. If you do not complete ALL three of the forms, you no longer can attend.
- The "BCI VT-Medication Form", and "BCI VT-Participant Emergency, health and media" are sent via Docusign.
- The registration form link was sent with your offer email.
Yes, you will get a confirmation email that you've completed your registration.
Unofficial transcripts are due on May 23, 2025. Instructions for this will be sent after you accept your offer to BCI by completing your registration.
Your transcript will be used during your one on one virtual meeting with an admissions representative.
You will receive an email after completing your registration form with instructions on where to submit your transcript. If you can't find it, email bci@chalakseir.com and we will resend it to you.
You can apply to our rising juniors BCI program if you are currently in 10th grade by the time of the application.
You can apply to our rising seniors BCI program if you are currently in 11th grade by the time of the application.
No, you can only apply to our rising seniors BCI program if you are currently in 11th grade by the time of the application.
No, we encourage you to apply for BCI when you are in 10th grade the next year.
No, you must re-apply for the in person BCI the following year.
No, BCI is free of cost. You just need to provide your own transportation. Once you are on campus, we cover meals and housing.
Please note that transportation to Virginia Tech will not be provided and students should not drive personal vehicles to campus. Parents or designated representatives will be provided parking passes for student drop-off and pick-up upon arrival on campus.
Additional Resources
- The SmartWay bus makes several stops in the New River Valley area, including the Roanoke Regional Airport and Squires Student Center (on VT's campus; where they will be met by a BCI representative).
- The MegaBus (Virginia Breeze) also makes stops on the VT campus.
- Amtrak train.
- Campus Maps
- Area Accomodations
- Sheets, pillowcase, pillow, and blanket or sleeping bag. The bed linen size is twin extra-long (XL); however, it can accommodate traditional full-size or bigger linens.
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Closed-toed shoes or sneakers - some of the spaces we will be entering require shoes with closed-toes.
- Rain gear - we may be outside for a program, rain or shine.
- Mud-wear - we will be outside for one program and some of the spaces are muddy so please bring appropriate footwear.
- Business casual attire (there are several occasions during the program where this attire is encouraged). Here is a guide on business casual attire from our Career and Professional Development department.
- Casual clothing that is enough for the duration of the program.
- Exercise clothing - we will go to the recreation center at least one evening.
- Appropriate swimsuit is optional for one of the activities available.
- Snacks - please refrain from bringing snacks with any type of nuts.
- Washcloth and towel
- Toiletries including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb/brush, shower-cap, hair products, shower shoes, and sunscreen.
- Phone chargers - please do not bring laptops/ipads/tablets or other expensive items.
- Baseball hat or cap optional
- Any necessary medications and make sure to fill out the "BCI VT-Medication Form" sent via Docusign to your parent/guardian's email.
We follow Virginia Tech's policy on masks.
While not required, Virginia Tech students, employees, and visitors are encouraged to be vaccinated and to get a booster dose. Vaccines remain our best protection against COVID-19.
No, family members must find overnight accommodations off-campus. See here for more information about accommodations in the Blacksburg area.
Visit this page for information about accommodations in the Blacksburg area for family members.
No, family members are only invited and allowed to attend check-in, the opening ceremony, the closing ceremony, and check-out. This allows for your student to fully participate and be engaged in the program.