12 Most Prestigious Summer Programs for High School Students

For many high school students, summer is a time to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, and catch up with friends. While relaxing is important, it’s also a perfect opportunity to build skills and experiences that can set you apart in college admissions.

Dedicating a few weeks productively during summer can give you a significant edge when applying to competitive universities. Most of the applications are open now and applying early is recommended.

Let’s deep dive into some of the top summer school programs you can join!

1. Research Science Institute (RSI)

• About: Hosted by MIT, RSI offers an intensive, six-week science and engineering research program.

• Eligibility: High school juniors with a strong background in math and science.

• Application Deadline: Mid-December.

• Cost: Free (travel, lodging, and meals included).

• Dates: June – August (Exact date to be announced).

The Research Science Institute (RSI), hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is widely regarded as one of the most elite summer programs in STEM. Over six weeks, participants engage in cutting-edge research under the mentorship of world-class scientists and professors.

Students have access to MIT’s advanced facilities and gain experience presenting their findings. This program is known for its rigorous selection process, admitting only the most academically talented students globally.

2. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

• About: A range of online and in-person courses in humanities, science, and math, designed for intellectually curious students.

• Eligibility: Grades 8–11 with demonstrated academic excellence.

• Application Deadline: March 20, 2025.

• Cost: $7,000+ for residential programs. Financial aid is available.

• Dates: June 16 – June 27, 2025 & July 7 - July 18, 2025

Stanford’s Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes offer high-achieving students the chance to explore diverse academic fields, including humanities, science, technology, and engineering.

The courses are designed to foster intellectual curiosity, encourage creativity, and help students think critically. Classes are led by Stanford professors and feature small group discussions, hands-on activities, and project-based learning.

3. Telluride Association Summer Program (TASS)

• About: A six-week educational experience focused on intellectual engagement and critical thinking.

• Eligibility: Juniors who excel in academics and leadership.

• Application Deadline: December 3, 2024.

• Cost: Free (includes tuition, housing, and meals).

• Dates: June 22, 2025 – July 26, 2025.

TASS is a six-week intellectual journey that challenges students to explore complex social and philosophical issues through seminars and discussions. Unlike many summer programs focused on technical or scientific learning, TASS emphasizes critical thinking, debate, and dialogue in a residential setting.

Students also engage in extracurricular activities, cultural outings, and community service projects. Admission to TASS is highly competitive and free of charge, ensuring that the program remains accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

4. Carnegie Mellon Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

• About: Offers coursework in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to underrepresented groups.

• Eligibility: High school juniors with strong STEM interest.

• Application Deadline: March 1, 2025.

• Cost: No cost - up to $10,000

• Dates: June 21 - August 2, 2025.

The SAMS program at Carnegie Mellon University aims to increase diversity in STEM fields by offering minority and underrepresented students an immersive experience in math and science.

Over six weeks, students take advanced coursework in subjects such as calculus, computer science, and engineering, while also engaging in hands-on projects and research.

5. Summer Science Program (SSP)

• About: A six-week residential program where students conduct astrophysics or biochemistry research.

• Eligibility: Sophomores and juniors with strong math and science skills.

• Application Deadline: January 24, 2025.

• Cost: $6,950 (financial aid available).

• Dates: June 2025

SSP is a prestigious six-week residential program offering students the chance to conduct original research in astrophysics or biochemistry.

The program is known for its emphasis on collaborative learning, with students working in teams to solve real-world scientific problems. Participants are mentored by university faculty and industry professionals.

6. Harvard Pre-College Program

• About: A two-week immersive experience, offering college-level courses across a variety of disciplines.

• Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

• Application Deadline: February 12, 2025.

• Cost: $5,800+ for the residential program.

• Dates: June 22 - July 3, 2025 & July 6 - July 18, 2025 & July 20 - August 1, 2025

Harvard’s Pre-College Program offers a two-week residential experience on its iconic campus, where students can explore a variety of college-level courses.

The program is designed to give high school students a taste of college life, with rigorous academics and access to Harvard’s resources.

Students live in dorms, participate in social activities, and attend workshops on college readiness. While the program is not free, scholarships are available to those who qualify.

7. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

• About: A six-week program focused on number theory and creative problem-solving.

• Eligibility: Students passionate about mathematics.

• Application Deadline: March 3, 2025

• Cost: $6,100 (financial aid available).

• Dates: June 29 – August 9, 2025

The application to PROMYS India 2025 is now open. The application deadline is January 15, 2025. PROMYS India 2025 will run from May 11 to June 21 at IISc.

Thanks to generous sponsors and donors, all students accepted to PROMYS India 2025 will be awarded a full scholarship.

PROMYS is a rigorous six-week program designed for students passionate about mathematics. The program focuses on number theory, problem-solving, and proof-based learning.

Participants work on challenging problem sets and attend lectures by leading mathematicians. PROMYS emphasizes creativity and deep thinking, making it an ideal program for students interested in pursuing advanced math.

8. Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program

• About: A seven-week coding boot camp aimed at closing the gender gap in technology.

• Eligibility: Female-identifying high school students.

• Application Deadline: June 27, 2025

• Cost: Free (stipends available for qualifying students).

• Dates: July - August (Exact date to be announced)

Girls Who Code offers a seven-week summer immersion program designed to empower young women with skills in computer science.

The program teaches coding languages, web development, and mobile app design through hands-on projects. Students also have the opportunity to meet industry leaders and explore career opportunities in tech.

9. National Youth Science Camp (NYSCamp)

• About: A free STEM-focused camp that includes lectures, outdoor adventures, and hands-on projects.

• Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors.

• Application Deadline: February

• Cost: Free (travel included).

• Dates: June - July

NYSCamp is a prestigious program that invites top STEM students from across the United States to a three-week experience in the West Virginia wilderness.

The camp includes lectures, hands-on projects, and outdoor adventures such as hiking and camping. Students engage with prominent scientists and leaders, gaining valuable insights into various STEM fields.

10. University of Chicago’s Summer Session

• About: Offers courses in writing, STEM, and the humanities, with access to UChicago professors and resources.

• Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

• Application Deadline: April (Exact date to be announced)

• Cost: $7,700 (financial aid available).

• Dates: June – July (Exact date to be announced)

The University of Chicago’s Summer Session offers courses in writing, science, and humanities, giving high school students a chance to experience college life at a top university. Courses are taught by UChicago faculty and emphasize critical thinking and academic rigor.

Students can choose from three- and six-week courses, with residential options available. Financial aid is offered to make the program accessible to a wider range of students.

11. Princeton University Summer Journalism Program (PUSJP)

• About: A free, 10-day residential program for students interested in journalism and media.

• Eligibility: High-achieving juniors from low-income backgrounds.

• Application Deadline: February 24, 2025

• Cost: Free (includes meals, housing, and travel).

• Dates: July (Exact date to be announced)

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program is designed to nurture the next generation of journalists. Students attend workshops led by professional journalists and Princeton faculty, gaining hands-on experience in news writing, interviewing, and multimedia production. The program culminates in the production of a student newspaper. PUSJP also offers guidance on the college application process, making it a valuable experience for aspiring media professionals.

12. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)

• About: A two-week academic enrichment program focused on global issues, leadership, and cross-cultural understanding.

• Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from around the world.

• Application Deadline: Jan 10, 2025

• Cost: $6,500 (financial aid available).

• Dates: Session I (June 22 - July 4) - Session II (July 6 - July 18) - Session III (July 20 - Aug 1)

YYGS offers students the chance to engage in seminars and workshops on topics like global health, sustainability, and international relations. The program brings together a diverse cohort of students from over 100 countries, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. Participants work on capstone projects and attend lectures by Yale professors and guest speakers, gaining insights into pressing global challenges and potential solutions.

13. Weekend Virtual Academies & Summer Virtual Academies

• About: Online boot camps (12 or 20 hours) in business, pre-med, government, and coding, led by Harvard students.

• Eligibility: Open to high school students worldwide.

• Application Deadline: Rolling admissions.

• Cost: Starting at $395 for Weekend Academies; financial aid available.

• Dates:
  Weekend Virtual Academies: 12 hours across two weekends.

  Summer Virtual Academies: Weeklong, 20-hour program held in June, July, and August.

Lets Unbound, in partnership with Harvard Student Agencies (HSA), offers Weekend and Summer Virtual Academies designed to immerse high school students in dynamic fields like business, pre-med, government, and coding. Programs feature engaging live sessions via Zoom, led by Harvard students, with interactive lectures, hands-on activities, and a final project presentation.

Participants gain valuable skills, connect with peers from around the globe, and receive a prestigious certification endorsed by Lets Unbound and HSA. These academies provide a unique global learning experience at an affordable price.

On-Campus Option: For a more immersive experience, On-Campus Summer Academies are held on Harvard’s campus, running Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, from June to August.

Final Thoughts

Participating in any of these prestigious summer programs not only deepens your academic knowledge but also helps you stand out in college applications. Research your options thoroughly and apply early to maximize your chances of acceptance.

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Amol & Nishant,

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