SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) has announced several important updates to the Caribbean Foundation Year (CFY) Academic Track for the 2026–2027 academic year, including a new October 1 start date and the delivery of all Academic Track classes at the USM campus in St. Maarten.
The updates follow the completion and evaluation of the program's 2025–2026 pilot year and are intended to strengthen the delivery of the Academic Track and provide students with a more consistent and connected academic experience. The upcoming CFY Academic Track will officially begin on October 1, 2026, and run through June 2027. All students enrolled in the Academic Track, including eligible students from St. Eustatius, will be required to attend classes in person at the University of St. Martin campus in St. Maarten.
The CFY Academic Track serves as a bridge between secondary and higher education, giving young people an opportunity to strengthen their academic skills, prepare for university-level studies, explore future educational and career pathways, and further develop the skills needed to successfully transition into higher education. To provide prospective students with additional time to apply under the updated program structure, the application deadline has been extended to Friday, August 28, 2026. With the placement tests taking place at USM on September 2 and 3, 2026.
Students who have already completed their CFY placement test at USM do not need to take the exam again. Applicants who have already submitted an application also do not need to submit a new application. The USM Admissions Office will follow up with applicants regarding their application status and any outstanding admission requirements. The Academic Track is open to eligible students between the ages of 16 and 23 who meet the program's admission requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to complete any outstanding application requirements before the August 28 deadline.
USM encourages interested students and families, particularly those who may still be considering their next step after secondary school, to contact the University to learn more about the CFY Academic Track and determine whether the program is the right pathway for them.
Key Dates for the 2026–2027 CFY Academic Track
- Application Deadline: August 28, 2026
- Placement Assessments: September 2 & 3, 2026
- Program Start: October 1, 2026
- Program Duration: October 2026 – June 2027
- Location: University of St. Martin Campus, St. Maarten
For additional information on the CFY Academic Track or the application process, contact the University of St. Martin Admissions Office at +1 (721) 542-5171 or +1 (721) 523-4876, or visit www.usm.sx
