20 College Summer Programs for High School Students
Summer is a great time for high school students to explore their interests, gain valuable experience, and prepare for college. Many universities offer summer programs that allow high school students to immerse themselves in various academic and extracurricular activities. These programs offer an opportunity for students to experience college life, learn new skills, meet like-minded individuals, and even earn college credits.
In this blog post, we'll explore 20 college summer programs for high school students that cover a diverse range of subjects and interests, from STEM to the arts, business, and more. Whether you're looking to pursue a particular passion or simply want to enhance your college application, there's a college summer program out there for you.
Why join a college summer program?
A college summer program — often called a precollege program — can provide numerous benefits for high school students. Some of these benefits include:
Learning about the college environment and college life: Participating in a college summer program allows students to gain valuable experience in a college environment, which can help them make a more informed decision about their future education.
Exploring college-level courses in-depth: College summer programs also give high school students the opportunity to explore different subjects and fields of study, and to pursue their passions in a more focused and rigorous manner.
Engaging in hands-on learning: Precollege programs often offer specialized courses and hands-on experiences that are not typically available in high school, which can enhance a student's learning and skill development.
Demonstrating interest in college applications: Additionally, precollege programs can help students build their resumes and college applications, by demonstrating their commitment to learning and their willingness to take on challenges.
Meeting and networking with professors and students: College summer programs can also provide opportunities for networking and mentorship, as students interact with college professors and professionals in their chosen field.
Overall, participating in a precollege program can be a valuable investment in a high school student's education and future success.
20 College Summer Programs for High School Students
Now that we have reviewed some of the benefits of joining a pre-college program, let’s take a look at 20 different college summer programs for high school students.
MIT Research Science Institute
Spearheaded by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), RSI brings together 80 of the world’s most accomplished high school students for a summer science & engineering program combining on-campus coursework in scientific theory with off-campus coursework in science and technology. Participants experience the entire research cycle from start to finish and deliver oral and written reports of their findings. The heart of RSI is a five-week research internship during which students conduct individual research projects under the guidance of faculty and staff mentors.
Learn more about MIT Research Science Institute here: https://mitadmissions.org/apply/prepare/summer/
For additional MIT college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Stanford Summer Session
The Stanford Summer Session offers an extraordinary educational experience for driven and high-performing students at a top-tier university. The program blends rigorous academic coursework with a diverse selection of extracurricular activities, creating an environment that embodies Stanford University's commitment to innovation, academic distinction, and global engagement. The program aims to provide participants with a transformative experience that empowers them to realize their full potential.
Learn about Stanford Summer Session here: https://summer.stanford.edu/
For additional Stanford college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Harvard Pre-College Program
Harvard's Pre-College Program is a two-week immersive summer program tailored for high school students seeking to experience college life at Harvard. This program provides a glimpse into the college experience without the constraints of traditional letter grades. Under the guidance of Ivy League scholars, students will be challenged in a single subject in small classes of approximately 15 students. Since classes are non-credit, students are free to learn for the sake of knowledge and take full advantage of a college-level course.
Learn more about Harvard Pre-College Program here: https://summer.harvard.edu/high-school-programs/pre-college-program/
For additional Harvard college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
UCLA Summer Courses for High School Students
High school students can take UCLA summer courses across subject areas — from film and television to mathematics to communication to chemistry. Students can choose from over 100 in-person classes in 30 subject areas, while also getting adjusted to the fast-paced nature of college. High school students are able to take 1-2 approved courses alongside UCLA students for college credit.
Learn more about UCLA Summer Courses here: https://summer.ucla.edu/courses/approved-summer-courses-for-high-school-students/
For additional UCLA college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Columbia University Summer Immersion Program in New York
This one- or three-week program allows high school students to experience college life at Columbia while studying a variety of interdisciplinary topics, including art, history, science, and engineering. Students take college-level courses, engage in hands-on projects, and participate in cultural and recreational activities in New York City. Students can choose from over 70 courses in a dozen subject areas.
Learn more about Columbia Summer Immersion here: https://precollege.sps.columbia.edu/highschool/summer-immersion-new-york-city
For additional Columbia college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Summer@Brown
Summer@Brown is a one- to six-week residential program that allows high school students to choose from over 200 courses in various disciplines, including art, engineering, and economics. Students will learn how to balance engaging, ungraded academic courses with exciting social activities. In particular, as an Ivy League institution, Brown is known for empowering student voices and cultivating independent thinkers.
Learn more about Summer@Brown here: https://precollege.brown.edu/
For additional Brown college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Yale Summer Session
In Yale’s Pre-College program, high school students can register for college-level courses and earn credit while studying with top faculty. Whether they want to explore a new field or focus more deeply on a preexisting interest, high schoolers will learn about the structure and challenges of university courses at highly selective colleges. From anthropology to economics, medicine to literature, Yale Summer Session has hundreds of courses to choose from, up to a maximum of two enrollments per session. Classroom locations are posted for in-person classes in the week leading up to courses, though students can move on to campus earlier for orientation and welcome events.
Learn more about Yale Summer Session here: https://summer.yale.edu/courses-programs/courses-yale
For additional Yale college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
UChicago Summer Immersion Programs for Pre-College Students
The University of Chicago offers summer immersion programs for high school students, providing an opportunity to indulge in one's passion and explore a wealth of educational resources. These programs offer undergraduate-level courses with personalized attention from faculty, researchers, and professionals who will guide students through workshop discussions, research projects, and other engaging activities, thereby fostering a hands-on learning experience. By participating in these programs, students can take advantage of the university's resources while gaining valuable insights and experiences that can assist in their academic and professional growth.
Learn more about UChicago Summer Immersion here: https://summer.uchicago.edu/programs/immersion
For additional UChicago college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
AI Scholars
For students who are seeking a fulfilling summer experience taught by graduate students and alumni from top universities, consider Inspirit AI, a live online AI-project building class in which students will learn about the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and its ever-growing applications. The program’s instructors are alumni from Stanford, MIT, and other top universities who are happy to share guidance about their collegiate experience and about college AI programs. Read more about the AI Scholars program for talented high school students here and check out some of the projects completed by our alumni!
Learn more about Inspirit AI here: https://www.inspiritai.com/liveonline
Georgetown Summer College Immersion Program
Georgetown University Summer College Immersion Program (SCIP) is an intensive three-week college preparatory program designed for high-achieving rising high school seniors from Cristo Rey Network and KIPP Foundation school systems, as well as selected schools, networks, and community-based organizations. The program offers a transformational learning experience, introducing students to college life and enhancing their readiness to apply to highly selective colleges and universities. During the program, students participate in a variety of activities, including class sessions, group discussions, seminars, workshops, and field trips. The program also features Georgetown Experience Seminars, which explore a range of subjects, including international relations, business, cybersecurity, government, STEM, liberal arts, and health studies.
Learn more about Georgetown Summer College Immersion here: https://summer.georgetown.edu/summer-college-immersion
For additional Georgetown college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
University of Pennsylvania Pre-College Programs
The University of Pennsylvania offers pre-college programs for high school students, both in-person (residential) and online. High school can enroll in credit-bearing undergraduate courses, taught by Penn faculty, and are in class alongside Penn undergrad students. Current 10th and 11th grade students are eligible to participate in courses across a wide array of disciplines.
Learn more about University of Pennsylvania Pre-College Programs: https://hs.sas.upenn.edu/summer-programs/pre-college-program
For additional UPenn college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
NYU Precollege
Experience life as an NYU student during the summer. NYU Precollege is a six-week program that allows you to earn college credits, interact with NYU professors and peers, and explore your interests. As a Precollege participant, you will be fully integrated into the NYU community, with access to the school's distinctive resources, supportive environment, and global network. Whether you have a clear idea of your intended major or wish to explore a new subject area, NYU Precollege provides an excellent opportunity to develop your abilities and readiness for college.
Learn more about NYU Precollege here: https://www.nyu.edu/admissions/high-school-and-middle-school-programs/high-school-programs/nyu-precollege/explore-precollege.html
For additional NYU college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Johns Hopkins - Summer at Hopkins
Summer at Hopkins provides a unique chance to learn from world-renowned instructors at Hopkins and connect with like-minded students from around the world. With a variety of programs in medicine, neuroscience, and psychology, students can broaden their knowledge, enhance their college applications, and even earn academic credits. These programs are designed to provide an immersive learning experience that challenges students and promotes intellectual curiosity. By participating in these programs, students can gain invaluable insights, skills, and experiences that can assist in their academic and professional pursuits. There are online and in-person programs available.
Learn more about Summer at Hopkins here: https://summer.jhu.edu/programs-courses/pre-college-programs/
For additional Johns Hopkins college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
University of Notre Dame Summer Scholars
Summer Scholars offers a unique opportunity for students to spend two weeks on the Notre Dame campus, taking a challenging college-level course instructed by Notre Dame faculty. With small class sizes, students receive personal attention and guidance from faculty members throughout their coursework, which offers a genuine preview of college academics. The program is both rigorous and rewarding, and students can earn one transferable college credit upon completion of a program track. Students are encouraged to collaborate on coursework outside of designated class times, much like in any college setting, and have ample opportunity to experience the social facets of college life, particularly those unique to Notre Dame. By participating in this program, students can gain valuable knowledge and skills while experiencing college life firsthand.
Learn more about Notre Dame Summer Scholars here: https://precollege.nd.edu/summer-scholars/
For additional Notre Dame college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
Boston University’s High School Honors Program
Boston University's High School Honors Program is an exceptional opportunity for high school students to get a taste of college life and academics. The program offers students the chance to study alongside college students and gain exposure to BU's renowned faculty, facilities, and resources. With over 80 challenging and engaging courses to choose from, students can tailor their experience to match their interests and goals. Additionally, participants have access to a variety of extracurricular activities and events, as well as the chance to earn college credit. The High School Honors Program is an excellent way for motivated high school students to enhance their academic and personal growth while preparing for college.
Learn more about Boston University High School Honors here: https://www.bu.edu/summer/high-school-programs/high-school-honors/
For additional Boston University college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
University of California San Diego FUTURES Programs
Deciding on the appropriate college or career path can be a challenging task. The Futures programs offered by the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies provide students with the opportunity to pursue their interests, discover novel areas of study, and acquire practical experience prior to embarking on their academic or professional journey. These programs are tailored exclusively for high school students and feature state-of-the-art coursework delivered by renowned experts in sought-after domains. Upon completion, students receive an Award of Completion from the UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, which can be utilized to enhance their college applications and resumes.
Learn more about UCSD Futures here: https://extendedstudies.ucsd.edu/courses-and-programs/futures?_ga=2.188341736.1599782826.1680722146-431522408.1680722146
University of Southern California (USC) Summer Programs
The USC Summer Programs feature courses instructed by distinguished USC faculty members and adept professionals from the USC academic circle. These educators curate a stimulating academic ambiance by integrating lectures, interactive workshops, labs, and presentations from guest speakers. The courses are meticulously crafted to be more dynamic, captivating, and demanding than accelerated high school classes or the comprehensive introductory courses provided by other pre-collegiate summer programs.
Learn more about USC Summer Programs here: https://precollege.usc.edu/summer-programs/
University of Maryland Terp Young Scholars
Terp Young Scholars at University of Maryland is a three-week summer program for high school students, offered in-person or online. In the program, students can select one 3-credit course in subjects like film, architecture, forensic sciences, economics, creative writing, and more. There is also an option available for commuter students as well.
Learn more about University of Maryland Terp Young Scholars here: https://oes.umd.edu/pre-college-programs/terp-young-scholars
Tulane Pre-College Academic Enrichment
The pre-college experience at Tulane University is meticulously designed by the academic staff to provide students with an all-encompassing education in the humanities, STEM, and the arts. Certain courses are eligible for three hours of Tulane credit, which can be transferred to other institutions. Multiple tracks are offered to high school students, with the curricula specifically tailored to match their academic levels.
Learn more about Tulane Pre-College here: https://summer.tulane.edu/
University of California, Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Residential track
Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Residential track presents a unique opportunity for high school students, both local and international, to reside on campus and relish a memorable summer at Berkeley. In addition to experiencing university life to the fullest with fellow students from diverse backgrounds, Pre-College Scholars participants can earn college credits by taking two courses offered through Berkeley Summer Sessions. Furthermore, they can engage in extracurricular activities, excursions, and an exploratory workshop series organized by proficient admissions professionals.
Learn more about UC Berkeley Pre-College Scholars Summer Residential Track here: https://precollege.berkeley.edu/residential
For additional UC Berkeley college summer programs for high school students, check out this recent blog post.
