Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked Summer Transition Program questions. STP students should refer to their confirmation letter for more information and details.

Do I need to bring PT gear?  Everyone must bring running shoes, socks and enough PT clothing for 1-2 sessions for the beginning of STP.  You will be issued VMI physical training shorts and shirts a day or two after you arrive for STP.  Everyone will take a physical training test before those are issued.  You may also want to bring a HydraPak, but it is not required.

Can I bring a trunk? Can I leave it at VMI for the summer?  Trunks are not permitted.  However, you may bring luggage of approximately the same size (all other luggage must fit inside). It is recommended that the piece of luggage be lockable. Sensitive and expensive items should not be stored in the luggage. VMI does not have insurance to cover damage, loss, or theft.  You must bring the luggage and all other items home with you after STP.

What am I allowed to wear?  

For men – shoes, socks, jeans or slacks, dress shorts, cargo pants and shirts with sleeves designed for outer garment wear.  Cut-offs, gym shorts, plain white undershirts and tank tops are not allowed.  Logo t-shirts are permitted.  Men are expected to be clean shaven. 

For women – shoes, socks, jeans or slacks, dress shorts, skirts, dresses, and blouses with sleeves designed for outer garment wear.   Cut-offs, gym shorts, plain white undershirts and tank tops are not allowed.  Logo t-shirts are permitted.

Shoes – Both men and women are expected to wear either shoes or sandals with straps. Flip flops or shower shoes are not authorized (but may be used when showering). It is recommended that you always wear something on your feet while in barracks. Invest in a good pair of running shoes and break them in (2-3 weeks before STP).

Socks – Everyone should bring white athletic socks with no logos for workouts.  You should also bring thick knee length black boots socks for boots, and black dress socks for low quarters.  The black dress socks must come up to the bottom of the calf (no ankle/no show socks).

Swimwear — STP students will be using the VMI swimming pool and will need to bring a swimsuit. When using the VMI swimming pool during activities or during free time, STP men are to wear board short style swimsuits. Men’s NCAA swimmers are permitted to wear a speedo. STP women are to wear a one-piece swimsuit.

Jewelry – Jewelry is allowed during STP. With the exception of females, who are authorized to wear earrings, students are not allowed to wear body-piercing adornments while on Post.  

Is long hair permitted for male STP students?  Yes.

Can I wear jewelry and makeup?  Yes. However, as noted above, body piercing adornments, with the exception of earrings for women, are not authorized.

How many things should I bring to wear of each item such as socks or undergarments?  Each person has their own level of comfort for the amount of clothing and toiletries needed while attending STP.  Bring what you would normally require for a four week stay away from home.  Do not bring everything that is required for when you matriculate.  Laundry service is not provided to students during the summer.  STP students may use the washing facilities in barracks (fee associated, change machine available).

Can I bring a fan?  Yes.  Fans can be 12”-16”.

Can I bring a refrigerator, microwave, coffee pot?  Refrigerators, microwaves, coffee pots, and other appliances are not permitted.

Do I need to bring a computer?  Computers are not required at STP.  Students taking ERH-101 should probably bring one to write their papers during class tutorial sessions.  Cell phones and IPads are also allowed.

Can I lock my barracks door?  You may not put locks on the barracks doors.  These doors remain unlocked. You may bring a personal lockbox for valuables and sensitive items or purchase one at VMI.

Can I leave on the weekends?  When do I need to return?  For STP 2024, the program is developing activities for the weekends.  It is recommended that students stay for the weekend, but not required.  If you do leave, you should plan to be back by 10 p.m. on Sunday evening. 

Can I bring a car?  STP students are permitted to have a vehicle at VMI during the program.  The use of cars by STP students is restricted to weekends, but students will not be permitted to leave VMI for the weekends.  A $40 vehicle registration fee is required and must be paid in advance with your STP tuition and fees.  Your vehicle will be registered by the VMI Police through the information provided on your STP application.  You will receive a parking pass and parking location map at STP check-in.  Vehicles must be parked in the designated areas on the map.

 **The authority on what to bring to VMI when you Matriculate can be found in the New Cadet Handbook**