Summer pre-college programs at renowned institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and MIT offer high school students a unique chance to dive deep into their interests, from robotics to journalism. These experiences enrich me academically and provide a glimpse into college life, fostering personal growth and new friendships. Here’s your guide to unlocking an unforgettable summer of discovery and learning.
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1. Stanford University Pre-Collegiate Studies
- Location: Stanford, California
- Cost: Varies by program
- Dates: Multiple sessions throughout the summer
- Description: Stanford University opens its illustrious campus to high school students, offering a peek into collegiate academics across various fields. From exploring computer science innovations to delving into humanities’ depths, participants get a well-rounded experience complemented by extracurricular activities that enrich their personal and intellectual growth.
2. Harvard Pre-College Program
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Cost: Approximately $5,000 for a seven-week session
- Dates: Summer Term
- Description: As one of the most sought-after experiences, Harvard’s program immerses students in college-level coursework led by esteemed faculty, amidst the historic ambiance of Harvard University. It’s an unparalleled opportunity for intellectual stimulation and community engagement.
3. Yale Young Global Scholars
- Location: New Haven, Connecticut
- Cost: Approximately $6,250 for a two-week session
- Dates: Multiple sessions throughout the summer
- Description: Focused on nurturing leadership and critical thinking, YYGS invites students to explore global issues and international relations within Yale’s inspiring academic environment, fostering a network of global young leaders.
4. Brown University Pre-College Programs
- Location: Providence, Rhode Island
- Cost: Varies by program
- Dates: Multiple sessions throughout the summer
- Description: Brown’s diverse academic offerings allow students to pursue their passions or discover new ones, all within a supportive community that encourages academic challenge and exploration.
Once you’re done with this list, check out our extended, comprehensive article on the 50 BEST STEM SUMMER PROGRAMS for high schoolers!
5. NYU Precollege Program
- Location: New York City, New York
- Cost: Approximately $7,000 for a six-week session
- Dates: Summer Session
- Description: Positioned in the heart of Manhattan, NYU’s program offers a vibrant urban campus experience, blending rigorous coursework with the rich cultural experiences of New York City, fostering academic and personal growth.
6. Cornell University Summer College
- Location: Ithaca, New York
- Cost: Varies by program
- Dates: Summer Sessions
- Description: Cornell’s program enables students to explore subjects ranging from architecture to veterinary medicine, providing a taste of college life and learning in the scenic Finger Lakes region.
7. MIT LaunchX
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
- Cost: Approximately $6,000 for a four-week session
- Dates: Summer Session
- Description: Perfect for entrepreneurial spirits, LaunchX immerses students in the world of startups, guiding them from ideation to pitch under the mentorship of MIT’s esteemed faculty and mentors.
8. California College of the Arts Pre-College Program
- Location: San Francisco, California
- Cost: Approximately $4,000 for a three-week session
- Dates: Summer Session
- Description: This program is a haven for aspiring artists and designers, offering studio experiences, portfolio development, and exposure to San Francisco’s vibrant arts scene under expert faculty guidance.
9. Emory University Pre-College Program
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Cost: Approximately $4,000 for a three-week session
- Dates: Summer Session
- Description: At Emory, students can dive into college-level studies in a supportive environment, exploring Atlanta’s cultural landscape and engaging in enriching extracurricular activities.
10. The Washington Journalism and Media Conference
- Location: George Mason University, Virginia
- Cost: Approximately $2,000 for a one-week session
- Dates: Summer Session
- Description: This program is a springboard for students keen on journalism and media, offering hands-on training, industry insights, and access to Washington D.C.’s rich journalistic landscape.
And here’s a bit of deeper insight into some of the select few programs that Rishab Jain, Harvard student and ISEF top winner, recommends.
Also, you can sign up for our mailing list here to receive our latest guides on scholarships and summer programs!
Concluding Note:
For my full applications to some of these programs/how I got into them, consider buying my course (and others from the variety of options within it with dozens of resources each) here.
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