Sunbird Flight Plan

Guaranteed Admission. Clear Direction. A Future That Takes Off.

At Fresno Pacific University, we believe every student deserves a clear path to college.

Through the Sunbird Flight Plan, we partner with local school districts to provide guaranteed admission opportunities, personalized support and a seamless transition from high school to university life.

This program removes uncertainty and replaces it with confidence—so students can focus on where they’re going, not how to get there.

What is the Sunbird Flight Plan?

The Sunbird Flight Plan is a partnership between Fresno Pacific University and participating school districts designed to:

  • Guarantee admission for eligible high school students
  • Provide early guidance and college readiness support
  • Simplify the application process
  • Connect students and families with resources every step of the way

Through this partnership, students are not just applying to college—they are planning their future with a clear runway to success.

Guaranteed Admission Criteria

Students from participating school districts are guaranteed admission to Fresno Pacific University when they:

  • Graduate from a partner high school
  • Achieve a minimum 3.0 weighted GPA at the time of application 
  • Submit their application and transcripts by the required deadlines 
  • Complete all admissions requirements and agree to university expectations 

Note: Some majors (e.g., Nursing, Social Work) have additional requirements.

What Students Receive

Through the Sunbird Flight Plan, students gain access to:

Admission & Scholarships

  • Guaranteed admission for eligible students
  • Academic scholarships ranging from $8,000–$18,000 annually
  • Access to additional need-based financial aid

Personalized Guidance

  • On-site or virtual support from FPU admissions counselors
  • Help with applications, FAFSA/CA Dream Act and career planning

College Readiness Experiences

  • Workshops and advising throughout high school
  • Invitations to campus events and Preview Days

A Connected Support System

  • Collaboration between school counselors and FPU staff
  • Family engagement and ongoing communication

A Clear Path from High School to College

Partner school districts work with Fresno Pacific University to ensure students:

  • Stay on track for graduation
  • Complete required coursework for college readiness
  • Receive support meeting key milestones and deadlines 

Together, we are building a stronger pipeline from high school to higher education—right here in the Central Valley.

Our Partner School Districts

Explore our partnerships below to learn more about each district’s agreement and opportunities for students.

Central Unified School District

The partnership between Fresno Pacific University and Central Unified School District (Fresno, CA) provides students with a structured pathway to college through the Sunbird Flight Plan.

Highlights include:

  • Guaranteed admission for qualifying students
  • Dedicated college advising and workshops
  • Transcript sharing and streamlined admissions support
  • Opportunities to engage with FPU through events and campus visits

Why It Matters

The Sunbird Flight Plan is more than an agreement—it’s a commitment.

A commitment to:

  • Increase college access
  • Support students earlier and more intentionally
  • Remove barriers to higher education
  • Strengthen our Central Valley communities

When students know where they’re going, everything changes.

 

Get Started

Are you a student, parent or educator interested in the Sunbird Flight Plan?

We're here to help you take the next step.