Eligibility and Application Process
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Students must be current sophomores in good academic standing at UNC to apply. Successful applicants will demonstrate maturity, flexibility, a strong desire to explore new cultures, and a commitment to public service. Previous travel experience is not required.
How Do I Apply?
Applications for the 2026-2027 Bridge Year Fellowship are now OPEN !
2026-2027 Application
A GBYF Information Session will be held on October 22, 2025 from 5 to 6 p.m. EST via Zoom
Bridge Year Timeline
Dates subject to change.
- Oct 15th, 2025: Application opens.
- Oct 22nd, 2025: Info Session at the Campus Y from 5:00pm-6:00pm (on zoom).
- December 3rd, 2025: Deadline to submit your online application 11:59pm.
- December 2025: Finalists are notified and participate in an interview round.
- January 2026 Bridge Year Fellow are interviewed and selected.
- July 2026: Fellow attends Summer Institute at UNC with the Global Gap Year cohort to learn about global engagement and finish their Bridge Year outline… before embarking on their adventure abroad!
- 2026-2027 Bridge year! At least 6 months of service abroad.
- August 2027: Return to UNC for your junior year and attend a Re-entry retreat with the Global Gap Year cohort.
If you have any questions or concerns about the timeline, please email unccampusyglobal@gmail.com.
Visit us on Instagram @uncglobalgap.