Summer Programs

Updated: November 2025

There are countless opportunities to make the most of your summer. (We use the term summer in accordance with the Northern Hemisphere academic calendar, as most universities refer to the break between school years as June, July, and August.)

With so many options available, narrowing down the choices can feel overwhelming. Before selecting a program, students should reflect on their academic interests, extracurricular involvement, and personal passions to identify opportunities that best align with their goals. Spending time on a college or university campus can be an added benefit, but it is by no means essential.

Consider the following questions as you explore your options:

Do you have a skill, passion, or academic interest that you would like to explore further? (e.g., biology, genetics, gardening, game theory, knitting, scuba diving, or women’s rights)
Is there something new you’ve always wanted to try? (e.g., theater, filmmaking, coding, Mandarin, horseback riding, or creative writing)
Where would you like to spend your summer? Could you combine multiple interests, such as improving your Italian while attending a summer program in Florence and visiting universities in Europe?
What type of learning environment appeals to you? (e.g., classroom-based learning, outdoor adventure, community service, or working with younger students)
Are you interested in pursuing fine or performing arts at the university level? If so, consider programs that can help you build a portfolio or prepare for auditions.
Are you a talented athlete who hopes to continue competing at the university level? Athletic identification camps can provide valuable instruction while also introducing students to university coaches. If this interests you, speak with your college counselor.

It’s important to remember that no single summer experience is inherently better than another. The most meaningful opportunity is one that aligns with your interests, goals, and values. Above all, choose an experience you will genuinely enjoy. At the same time, consider stepping outside your comfort zone by engaging with new ideas, meeting people from different backgrounds, or immersing yourself in an unfamiliar environment. These experiences often lead to the greatest personal growth.

Finally, pay close attention to age requirements, as many residential programs require students to be at least 16 years old.

The Office of College Counseling is happy to help students explore summer opportunities, review applications and essays, and provide supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation when appropriate. (For students in Grades 9 and 10, letters of recommendation are provided by the Social-Emotional Counseling team.) Please let us know how we can support you.

The programs below are organized into two categories:

Vetted Programs: Programs with which the Office of College Counseling has had positive experiences through previous student participation.
Unvetted Programs: Programs that may be of interest but with which we have no direct experience.

Please note that inclusion on this list does not constitute an endorsement by Graded or the Office of College Counseling.

VETTED PROGRAMS

AFS-USA - With a network spanning more than 45 countries and over 70 years of connecting lives across cultures, AFS offers authentic, immersive opportunities for young people to study abroad and live around the world. More than 150 high school study abroad programs are led by local communities, where AFS staff, volunteers, and host families welcome students into a second home. At AFS, studying and living abroad is about becoming a global citizen. More than 100 years ago, the founders of AFS recognized the importance of intercultural exchange. Today, students can become part of that legacy by joining more than 500,000 alumni worldwide.
Andover Summer - Widely recognized as one of the nation’s premier summer academic enrichment programs, Andover Summer helps students from across the United States and around the world achieve ambitious educational goals. Phillips Academy’s flagship summer program is an intensive five-week residential experience designed to prepare students for the rigor of top secondary schools and universities while developing the skills to lead and serve in a complex world.
ARCC - For more than 40 years, ARCC has offered exceptional summer programs for teens. With more than 30 program options across five continents, students participate in immersive travel experiences lasting two to four weeks. By exploring destinations rarely visited by tourists, participants engage in meaningful educational experiences that foster discovery, adventure, and personal growth.
Boston University Summer Journalism Academy - Students are challenged to step outside their comfort zones and experience life as working journalists. Participants learn to interview sources, ask thoughtful questions, investigate current issues, and produce concise, deadline-driven stories while developing essential journalism skills.
Brown University Pre-College Programs - Allow high school students to experience the intellectual challenges and opportunities of college life. Students enjoy rigorous academics alongside enriching social experiences while exploring subjects of interest—without the pressure of formal grades.
Carnegie Mellon University Pre-College Programs - Provide high school students with an immersive college experience both inside and outside the classroom. Students can enroll in college-level courses across more than 30 disciplines or participate in experiential programs spanning a wide range of academic interests.
Columbia University Summer Pre-College Programs - Help students explore academic interests, broaden their perspectives, and prepare for the transition to college. Because courses often fill before application deadlines, students are encouraged to apply early.
Culver Summer Academy - Founded in 1902, Culver Summer Schools and Camps welcomes more than 1,400 students, ages 7–17, to its 1,800-acre campus each summer. Through a high-challenge, high-support environment, students develop leadership skills, self-confidence, and self-discipline while enjoying a wide variety of academic, athletic, and enrichment opportunities.
EHL Summer Academy - With programs in Switzerland, Singapore, and online, EHL’s pre-university summer courses are ideal for students interested in business, hospitality, or exploring one of the world’s leading hospitality management schools. While many sessions focus on hospitality, the programs are also well-suited for students interested in business, management, luxury, sustainability, and culinary arts. Programs are available for students ages 14–19 (16 and older for residential programs).
HE+ - Although not a traditional summer program, the HE+ website offers outstanding “supercurricular” resources created by Cambridge University students and academics. Featuring challenging activities, engaging videos, reflective questions, and additional learning resources, HE+ encourages students to explore subjects beyond the school curriculum and deepen their academic interests throughout the summer.
International Leadership, Enrichment and Development Program (iLED) @ Notre Dame - iLED is a two-week program taught by University of Notre Dame faculty that focuses on international leadership. Students take interdisciplinary courses while participating in a variety of extracurricular experiences, including a day trip to Chicago, admissions information sessions, student panels, a talent show, a color run, and other community-building activities.
Northfield Mount Hermon Summer Session - It’s all about focus. Students choose one subject and explore it in depth alongside inspiring teachers, motivated peers, and small classes. Many participants make remarkable academic progress, and some courses even cover a full year of content, allowing students to earn credit and prepare for the next level of study.
Notre Dame Pre-College Online Program - Designed for motivated high school students, the University of Notre Dame’s online pre-college program empowers curious and ambitious learners through engaging courses taught by renowned faculty. Dynamic video lessons, mentorship opportunities, and year-round availability allow students to study anywhere, anytime, at their own pace while exploring their academic interests and preparing for college.
Outward Bound - Since 1962, Outward Bound USA has been a leader in outdoor education, offering programs that help young people discover their potential through challenging expeditions and experiential learning. From wilderness adventures to community-based programs, participants develop resilience, leadership, and a lifelong passion for learning.
Oxbridge Academic Programs - For nearly 40 years, Oxbridge Academic Programs has offered study abroad experiences for students in Grades 8–12. Programs are hosted at renowned universities and in historically and culturally significant cities across England, France, Spain, and the United States. Students select a major and a minor from more than 150 subjects while also participating in guest lectures, workshops, field trips, and a wide variety of extracurricular activities.
Oxford Royale Academy - Oxford Royale offers students the opportunity to experience academic life at some of the world’s most prestigious universities. Participants live, dine, and study at institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, and others while exploring a wide range of academic subjects in an international learning environment.
Oxford Summer Courses - Particularly valuable for IB students, Oxford Summer Courses offers pre-IB programs to help students prepare for the transition into the IB Diploma Program, as well as mid-IB revision courses to strengthen subject knowledge before Grade 12. Revision courses are also available for students preparing to retake IB examinations. Many courses are offered online.
Prague Film School - This intensive four-week program guides students through every stage of filmmaking, including screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, and sound. During the first two weeks, students build foundational skills as they prepare for their final projects. In the third week, they film their productions, and in the final week, they edit their work before screening their completed films at a public cinema with faculty feedback.
Pre-College Summer Programs at Boston University - Boston University offers a wide range of summer opportunities for high school students, including:
- High School Honors - A six-week residential, commuter, or online program in which students enroll in Boston University undergraduate courses and may earn transferable college credit.
- RISE Internship/Practicum - A six-week residential or commuter research experience in which students conduct scientific research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
- Academic Immersion (AIM) - A three-week residential or commuter program that allows students to explore a single academic subject through classroom instruction and hands-on learning.
- Summer Challenge - A two-week residential or online program in which students experience college life while taking two non-credit seminars of their choice.
- Summer Preview - A one-week residential or commuter program that introduces younger high school students to college-level learning through an in-depth exploration of a single subject.
Schoolhouse (by Khan Academy) - Schoolhouse connects student tutors with learners seeking academic support. Students may choose to volunteer as tutors, developing their leadership and communication skills while helping others, or participate as learners to strengthen their academic skills over the summer.
Sewanee Pre-College Summer Programs - From the arts and fieldwork to creative writing and the sciences, Sewanee’s pre-college programs offer high school students a unique opportunity to experience life on the University’s beautiful campus while exploring their academic and creative interests.
Summer Discovery - For more than 50 years, Summer Discovery has offered pre-college enrichment programs for students in Grades 6–12 at leading colleges and universities across the United States and the United Kingdom. With hundreds of courses spanning subjects such as science, business, medicine, engineering, the arts, and even surfing, students can explore academic interests while experiencing college life. Graded students may also be interested in the University of Pennsylvania Jerome Fisher Program in Management & Technology Summer Institute, one of Summer Discovery’s signature offerings.
TS College Tours - TS College Tours offers college and university tour programs designed specifically for international school students interested in pursuing higher education in the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom. Students visit a range of universities while learning about admissions, campus life, and different higher education systems, helping them make more informed college choices.
Tufts Pre-College Program - Tufts University offers a variety of summer courses and academic experiences for high school students, providing opportunities to explore college-level subjects while experiencing life on campus.
Understanding Ireland, Socially, Culturally & Economically (UISCE) - Pronounced “ish-KA,” UISCE immerses students in the history, culture, and society of Ireland and Northern Ireland while fostering leadership skills and a deeper understanding of peace and conflict resolution. Mr. Neill serves on the program’s advisory board and is happy to answer questions about the experience.
Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS) - YYGS is a highly selective academic enrichment program that brings together outstanding high school students from more than 150 countries for an interdisciplinary two-week experience. Participants engage in rigorous academic study while becoming part of a vibrant global learning community at Yale University.
Young Writers Summer Workshops @ Kenyon - This intensive, two-week residential workshop is designed for intellectually curious and motivated high school students eager to strengthen their creative and critical writing skills. Participants work closely with accomplished writers and peers as they develop their craft in a supportive and inspiring environment.

UNVETTED PROGRAMS

Academic Camp - Academic Camp brings together experienced educators to offer inspiring, challenging programs for students ages 7–17. Programs combine high-quality academics with trips, sports, and recreational activities in destinations including the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and Switzerland.
ACU Rising Scholars - Rising Scholars is a pre-college program offered by Abilene Christian University for current high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while developing academically, growing personally, and building lasting friendships with peers from across the United States. Programs are offered on campus in Abilene, Texas, as well as in New Mexico, England, France, and Germany, with courses spanning subjects such as chemistry, physics, pre-law, and photography. Visit the program website for current offerings, deadlines, and application information.
American University in Paris Summer School - The American University in Paris (AUP) Summer School offers students ages 16 and older the opportunity to take university-level courses in areas such as Art History, Fine Arts, Fashion, French language, and Creative Writing. Programs are offered in multiple summer sessions. Residential accommodations are generally required for students under 18 or those who have not yet studied at the university level, with some exceptions. Contact AUP directly for current housing policies and program details.
Babson Summer Study for High School Students - Babson Summer Study introduces rising high school juniors and seniors to entrepreneurship through college-level coursework, collaborative projects, and interactive sessions with Babson faculty, industry experts, and fellow students. Participants develop entrepreneurial thinking, leadership skills, and innovative solutions to real-world challenges while learning Babson’s Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® framework. Students may also earn college credit while exploring topics such as social impact, innovation, and global entrepreneurship.
Barcelona International Youth Science Challenge (BIYSC) - BIYSC is a two-week international residential science program for students ages 16–18 who are passionate about science and technology. Participants engage in research projects alongside scientists at leading research centers while attending lectures, workshops, and discussions with peers from around the world.
Berkeley Changemaker Summer Pre-College Program - UC Berkeley’s Changemaker Pre-College Program offers domestic and international high school students the opportunity to experience university life while developing critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills. Through college-level coursework, social activities, and local excursions, students explore their academic interests while learning how to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
Bocconi Summer School - Bocconi Summer School offers both on-campus and online options for high school students. Participants can choose from a variety of subject-focused labs, all taught in English, allowing them to deepen existing interests or explore new academic fields.
Case Western Reserve University Pre-College Program - Designed for students ages 13 and older, Case Western Reserve University’s pre-college online program allows participants to explore college-level subjects through engaging video lessons and mentorship from university instructors. Courses are available year-round, giving students the flexibility to study at their own pace while exploring a variety of academic disciplines.
Constructor University Summer Camp - Constructor University’s Summer Camp combines academic enrichment with German language learning, outdoor activities, sports, and cultural excursions. Students also have opportunities to build friendships and connect with peers from around the world.
Downing College (Cambridge) International Programme - Open to students ages 15–18, this program offers an academically rigorous introduction to university life at the University of Cambridge. Participants engage in challenging coursework, laboratory and museum visits, applied learning experiences, and cultural activities while gaining insight into undergraduate study.
Elmhurst University 2023 Collegiate Summer Immersion Program - This summer program gives high school students the opportunity to experience university life while taking a college-level course in Global Business. Participants may also have the opportunity to earn transferable university credit. Visit the program website for current dates, eligibility requirements, and application information.
Georgetown University Pre-College Online Program - Georgetown University’s year-round online pre-college program enables students ages 13 and older to explore college-level subjects through dynamic video lessons, mentorship, and flexible, self-paced learning. Courses span a variety of disciplines, including medicine, journalism, law, business, and the humanities, allowing students to explore potential academic and career interests before college.
Glion & Les Roches Summer Programs in Hospitality - These programs introduce students to hospitality through hands-on workshops, industry visits, and interactive learning experiences. Participants explore topics such as culinary arts, event management, luxury hospitality, and business while connecting with students from around the world. Students are encouraged to explore the unique offerings available through both Glion and Les Roches.
Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP) - HARP pairs highly motivated students in Grades 10–12 with professors, research scientists, and Ph.D. researchers to develop university-level research projects and manuscripts. Students may choose from more than 350 research specializations across STEM, the social sciences, and the humanities. The program offers valuable opportunities to explore potential academic interests, gain firsthand research experience, and strengthen university applications. Exceptional projects may also be considered for publication or other forms of academic recognition.
Iacocca Global Entrepreneurship Intensive (IGEI) @ Lehigh - IGEI brings together U.S. and international high school students for an intensive program focused on leadership, design thinking for entrepreneurship, and global citizenship. Participants collaborate on consulting projects, attend workshops led by Lehigh faculty and industry professionals, explore specialized focus areas, participate in leadership coaching, and engage in cultural exchange activities with peers from around the world. Visit the program website for current dates and application information.
iD Tech Camps & Academies - Hosted on university campuses across the United States, iD Tech Camps and Academies offer hands-on learning experiences in coding, game development, robotics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, engineering, and other STEM fields. Students combine technical learning with campus life while collaborating with instructors and peers who share similar interests.
IU Precollege Academy - Indiana University’s Precollege Academy provides rising high school seniors from diverse backgrounds with a residential introduction to university life. Participants explore the college application process, strengthen college readiness skills, investigate potential career paths, and experience campus life while connecting with faculty, staff, and fellow students. Visit the program website for current eligibility requirements and application information.
London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) - LIYSF is an international residential science program that brings together outstanding students ages 16–21 from more than 70 countries. Participants attend lectures by leading scientists, visit research institutions, engage in scientific discussions, and collaborate with peers who share a passion for science and technology.
Lumiere & Veritas AI - These research programs pair talented high school students with experienced researchers to complete independent projects in STEM, artificial intelligence, the humanities, business, and the social sciences. Students gain valuable research experience, and exceptional projects may be submitted for publication or academic competitions.
McGill Summer Academy - Held on McGill University’s downtown campus, this two-week program combines academic coursework, experiential learning, and skill-building activities to help students prepare for university study. Participants choose between two academic streams—Neuro and Health Sciences or World Politics—while connecting with McGill faculty, current students, and peers from around the world.
Michigan ArcStart - ArcStart is a residential pre-architecture program offered by the University of Michigan’s Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. Students are introduced to architectural design through studio work, hands-on workshops, and collaborative projects that develop creative thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of the built environment.
Northeastern University’s Accelerate Pre-College Programs -Northeastern’s residential pre-college programs, offered on the Boston and Oakland campuses, provide high school students with hands-on, experiential learning in fields such as engineering, health sciences, ethics and emerging technologies, entrepreneurship, and more. Participants experience college-level academics while exploring Northeastern’s distinctive approach to experiential education.
NOVA Summer School Lisbon - Held in Lisbon, NOVA Summer School welcomes students ages 16–19 for a two-week program that helps bridge the transition from high school to university. Students develop practical life skills in areas such as financial literacy, communication, technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership while choosing from thematic tracks including Media and Social Issues, Scientific and Technological Evolution, Life Sciences and Health, and Entrepreneurship and Business.
Parsons Paris Summer Program - Parsons Paris offers online pre-college courses for students ages 13 and older, allowing them to explore potential academic interests before university. Programs are particularly well-suited for students interested in fashion, art, and design while helping participants discover whether these subjects could lead to future university studies or careers.
Parsons Summer Intensive Studies - Parsons Summer Intensive Studies offers hands-on courses for high school and university students, and creative professionals interested in art, design, and entrepreneurship. Participants explore college-level creative disciplines while developing practical skills and, in some cases, earning academic credit.
Pratt PreCollege - Pratt PreCollege offers a variety of programs for aspiring artists, designers, and architects, including one-day workshops, Saturday courses during the academic year, and immersive residential summer experiences. Students develop their creative and technical skills while experiencing life at one of the nation’s leading art and design institutions.
Projects Abroad - For more than 30 years, Projects Abroad has offered international volunteer, internship, and service-learning opportunities that encourage students to develop new skills while contributing to communities around the world. Programs emphasize meaningful cultural exchange, responsible travel, and personal growth through hands-on experiences.
Rhodes College Summer Writing Institute - This two-week residential program helps high school students strengthen their critical thinking, reading, and writing skills in a liberal arts environment. Participants complete college-level writing assignments, earn transferable college credit, and graduate with a portfolio showcasing their work.
Rice University Pre-College Online Program - Rice University’s online pre-college courses introduce students to college-level topics through expert instruction and mentorship. Participants study at their own pace while earning a Certificate of Completion and exploring potential academic and career interests.
Scripps Howard Emerging Journalists Program at Elon - This program introduces high school students to journalism through hands-on learning experiences focused on reporting, storytelling, and multimedia production. Participants develop foundational journalism skills through virtual learning opportunities, with selected students continuing to an immersive on-campus residential experience at Elon University.
Silicon Valley Bootcamp - This immersive program introduces high school students to technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation through visits to leading companies, startups, universities, and research centers in Silicon Valley. Participants gain firsthand exposure to emerging industries while learning from entrepreneurs, technology professionals, and academic leaders.
Sportech Academy - Located in Milan, Italy, Sportech Academy offers summer programs for students ages 8–17 that combine sports, arts, and culinary experiences. Participants may choose between residential and day camp options, with all activities conducted in English alongside students from around the world.
Summer Entrepreneurship Institute @ DePaul - This two-week program introduces students to entrepreneurship through workshops led by faculty from DePaul University and partner institutions. Using design thinking, participants develop a business idea from concept to prototype while gaining experience in market research, business planning, and innovation. The program also includes hands-on projects, mentorship, a final project competition, and cultural excursions.
University of Navarra Caminho Program - Offered by the University of Navarra in Spain, this three-week program immerses students in the Catholic intellectual tradition while exploring the history and culture of the Camino de Santiago. Participants study Spanish language and culture, walk several stages of the historic pilgrimage route, and live with Spanish host families while engaging with peers from around the world.
USC Summer & Online Pre-College Programs - The University of Southern California offers a variety of four-week summer and online pre-college programs that allow high school students to explore university-level subjects while experiencing campus life and learning from USC faculty.
UW–Madison Badger Precollege - Badger Precollege offers residential, commuter, and online programs in a wide range of subjects, including art, psychology, computer science, forensics, and more. Students experience university life while preparing for future academic success. Need-based scholarships are available for many programs.
Washington University in St. Louis Summer Programs - Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) offers a variety of summer opportunities across multiple academic divisions, including business, arts and sciences, architecture, design, and visual arts. Programs include BOLD@Olin, Gateway to Business, High School Summer Scholars, High School Summer Institutes, High School Summer Launch, Architecture Discovery, and Portfolio Plus.
Wharton Global Youth Program - The Wharton Global Youth Program introduces high school students to business, leadership, and entrepreneurship through academic enrichment opportunities designed to develop analytical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills while exploring today’s global economy.
William & Mary Pre-College Online Program - William & Mary offers online pre-college courses for students ages 13 and older, allowing them to explore college-level subjects through engaging instruction from university faculty and industry professionals. Courses span a variety of academic disciplines, helping students discover potential university majors and future career interests.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Pre-College Summer Programs - WPI offers several summer programs for high school students, including Frontiers (Grades 10–12), Launch (Grades 9–11), and College Credit Jumpstart (Grades 11–12). These programs allow students to explore STEM and other academic disciplines while experiencing university-level learning.

If you are a student or parent and have feedback about any of these programs—or would like to recommend a program not currently included in this list—please contact the Office of College Counseling (OCC). If you represent a summer program and would like it to be considered for inclusion, please email us at occ@graded.br.