11 Best Ivy League Summer Camps for High School Students (2025 Guide)
Spending a summer at an Ivy League university can be a transformative experience for high school students. These prestigious summer programs provide an opportunity to take college-level courses, conduct research, and gain mentorship from top faculty. Whether you're interested in STEM, business, journalism, or the humanities, these programs can enhance your college application while giving you a taste of Ivy League academics.
This 2025 guide covers 11 of the best Ivy League summer camps, including program details, deadlines, costs, and student testimonials to help you choose the right fit.
1. Harvard Pre-College Program
Harvard’s Pre-College Program is a two-week residential summer experience designed for ambitious high school students. Participants explore college-level courses in a non-credit, discussion-based format, helping them develop critical thinking and academic skills. Students live on campus, attend workshops, extracurricular activities, and social events, and get a taste of Ivy League academics. It’s a great opportunity to experience Harvard’s rigorous environment before college.
Application Deadline: Early March 2025 (exact date TBD).
Program Dates: Multiple 2-week sessions from June–August 2025.
Cost: Approx. $5,300 (includes tuition, housing, and meals).
Learn More: Harvard Pre-College Program
2. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)
YYGS is a highly selective academic enrichment program designed for high-achieving students from around the world. The program offers interdisciplinary courses in STEM, social sciences, and humanities, allowing students to engage in deep discussions, research projects, and group collaborations. Participants network with Yale faculty and international peers, making it one of the most prestigious Ivy League summer experiences.
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025.
Program Dates: Three sessions in June–July 2025.
Cost: $6,500 (financial aid available).
3. Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP)
The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) is a fully-funded, highly selective program for students from low-income backgrounds who are interested in journalism. Over the course of 10 days, participants work with professional journalists, attend press conferences, and develop investigative reporting skills. Students visit major news organizations like The New York Times, write and publish articles, and receive college admissions guidance from Princeton staff.
Application Deadline: February 2025 (exact date TBD).
Program Dates: Late July – early August 2025.
Cost: Free (fully funded, including travel, housing, and meals).
Learn More: Princeton Summer Journalism Program
4. Columbia University Summer Immersion Program
Columbia’s Summer Immersion Program is a three-week academic experience that allows students to take college-level courses in subjects like law, business, medicine, and engineering. Taught by Columbia faculty and industry experts, students participate in seminars, networking events, and hands-on projects. The program offers on-campus and online options, making it accessible for students worldwide.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (early application recommended).
Program Dates: June–August 2025 (multiple sessions).
Cost: Approx. $6,400 (financial aid available).
Learn More: Columbia Summer Immersion
5. UPenn Pre-College Programs
The University of Pennsylvania Pre-College Program allows high school students to earn Ivy League credits while studying on campus. Participants choose from a variety of courses, including business, law, engineering, and medicine, and engage in college-level discussions, research, and projects. With small class sizes, mentorship from UPenn faculty, and research opportunities, this program is an excellent way to experience Ivy League academics firsthand.
Application Deadline: March 2025 (exact date TBD).
Program Dates: June–July 2025.
Cost: Approx. $5,500 – $7,500 (varies by program).
6. Brown University Pre-College Programs
Brown’s Pre-College Programs allow students to choose from 300+ courses in a collaborative, discussion-based format. Unlike traditional summer courses, Brown’s pre-college experience does not include grades or tests, instead focusing on critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Students can attend on-campus or online, making it a great choice for those who prefer flexibility.
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions.
Program Dates: June–August 2025.
Cost: Approx. $2,900 – $6,500 per course.
7. Dartmouth Bound Summer Program
The Dartmouth Bound Summer Program is a fully-funded, selective program aimed at high-achieving students from underrepresented backgrounds. It offers an in-depth look at Dartmouth’s admissions process, alongside academic workshops, networking with faculty, and college prep guidance. The program is free, making it an excellent opportunity for students looking for financially accessible Ivy League experiences.
Application Deadline: May 2025.
Program Dates: July 2025.
Cost: Free (travel and lodging covered).
8. Cornell Precollege Studies
Cornell’s Precollege Studies Program gives students a chance to earn Ivy League credits in fields such as engineering, business, social sciences, and more. Courses are taught by Cornell faculty, and students get access to Cornell’s extensive research facilities. Participants can live on campus and experience college life while preparing for competitive university applications.
From Cornell:
Top 3 reasons to enroll in precollege studies at Cornell
Earn credits and a Cornell transcript
You’ll enroll in Cornell University courses alongside undergraduates, receive an official Cornell transcript, and earn credits that are generally transferable toward a degree at Cornell or elsewhere.
Study with top Ivy League instructors
You’ll work with some of the brightest, most accomplished experts in their fields who love to teach and who share a passion for learning that’s contagious.
Experience college academics firsthand
You’ll prepare for college by experiencing classes at one of the world’s top universities. You’ll meet people from across the globe and learn as much about yourself as you will about your class subjects.
Application Deadline: May 2025.
Program Dates: June–August 2025.
Cost: Approx. $5,000 – $12,000 (varies by course length).
9. Columbia Business Leadership Academy
This program is tailored for students interested in business, finance, and entrepreneurship. Participants take courses on marketing, leadership, and financial strategies, working on real-world business cases and startup projects. The program also features guest lectures, networking opportunities, and mentorship from industry professionals.
Application Deadline: April 2025.
Program Dates: July 2025.
Cost: $6,500.
10. Harvard Secondary School Program (SSP)
Harvard’s Secondary School Program (SSP) is a seven-week summer experience where students take Harvard courses for credit. Unlike the Pre-College Program, this allows students to earn transferable college credits while studying at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
Application Deadline: May 2025.
Program Dates: June–August 2025.
Cost: $3,600 – $11,000.
Learn More: Harvard SSP
Final Thoughts
These 11 Ivy League summer programs provide unparalleled academic experiences, college exposure, and valuable connections. Whether you're interested in STEM, business, journalism, or research, there’s a program that suits your goals. Apply early and take the next step toward your Ivy League future!
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