
Why Summer Programs?
Introduction for Science Research Programs
The STEM field is becoming increasingly competitive. According to Kison Patel from DealRoom, in 2024, global venture capital investments were focused on technology, healthcare, financial services, innovation and renewable energy. Innovation and technology are fields that promise well-paying jobs after college. Science Research can provide a pathway to a career in STEM. You may have a strong GPA in math and science, but students need more than good grades to stand out today. It is essential to gain hands-on experience as well. Participating in a science research program will help their resume stand out amongst the competition by showing initiative, curiosity backed by action, and a commitment to scientific research.
So, you might be asking yourself – should I apply? Ask yourself the following questions:
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Have you done any passion projects/research projects before?
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Did you take a science research class in school?
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Do you have the ability to read scientific articles?

Science Research Summer Programs -
Research Science Institute (RSI)
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Application Deadline: January 15, 2025
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Description: Conduct rigorous scientific research in collaboration with industry leaders and academic experts at MIT.
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Requirements: Exceptional academic record demonstrated interest in science and research.
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Eligibility: Students entering their final year of high school, internationally.
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Students need to verify the citizenship.
Simons Summer Research Program
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Website: https://www.stonybrook.edu/simons/
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Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
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Description: Engage in cutting-edge research across the sciences under the mentorship of faculty members at SUNY.
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Requirements: High school transcript, recommendation letters, a written proposal.
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Eligibility: Rising high school seniors.
Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
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Website: https://simr.stanford.edu/
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: This eight-week program provides an immersive experience in biomedical research at one of the world's leading institutions.
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Requirements: Interest in biomedical research, completion of at least one year of high school biology.
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Eligibility: Current juniors and seniors, with preference given to underrepresented groups in STEM.
Simons Summer Research Program
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Application Deadline: January 31, 2025
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Description: A unique opportunity to conduct genetics and genomics research under the mentorship of seasoned scientists in an environment dedicated entirely to biomedical research.
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Requirements: Transcript, letters of recommendation, demonstrated interest in genetics and genomics.
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Eligibility: Students aged 16 and up from around the world.
High School Honors Science, Math, and Engineering Program (HSHSP) at Michigan State University
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Website: https://education.msu.edu/hshsp/
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Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
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Description: A seven-week program where students undertake individual research projects in areas ranging from engineering to biology, working alongside faculty and graduate students.
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Requirements: Strong academic performance, especially in relevant science and math courses; research proposal.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.
Summer Science Program (SSP)
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Website: https://summerscience.org/
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Application Deadline: March 5, 2025
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Description: SSP challenges students through a rigorous academic schedule focusing on experimental science, specifically in astrophysics or biochemistry.
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Requirements: Excellent academic credentials, passion for science, and recommendations.
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Eligibility: High school students worldwide, ages 15-18.
The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)
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Application Deadline: December 1, 2024
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Description: Provides students with the opportunity to conduct hands-on research in a variety of biological, chemical, and physical sciences.
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Requirements: High school transcript, two teacher recommendations, personal essay.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.
Garcia Summer Scholars Program
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Website: https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/garcia/summer_program/program_description.php
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Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
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Description: Engages students in advanced materials research at Stony Brook University's Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces.
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Requirements: Academic record, interest in materials science, teacher recommendation.
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Eligibility: Rising sophomores to seniors.
Introduction for Mathematics Summer Programs:
In 2024, global venture capital funding experienced a significant increase, with AI-focused companies attracting a huge portion of investments. According to PitchBook, AI startups secured billions in funding, with a 52% increase from the previous year. This trend shows the importance of mathematical modeling and data analysis in the job market. Math is not just a subject to use in school, but a critical skill to learn in the evolving job industry.
Participating in a math summer program will open the door to opportunities to explore advanced concepts, connect with peers with similar interests and goals, and learn from experts in the field. The selectivity varies by each program; elite programs such as Ross, PROMYS, and SUMac, are highly competitive and accept only the top applicants. Other programs are more accessible and designed for students looking to strengthen their math foundation. More advanced programs often require experience with Olympiad-style problem solving or study in higher-level mathematics courses such as AP Calculus, Linear Algebra, or Statistics. Ideal candidates are those who strongly desire to dive deeper into mathematical reasoning and explore complex concepts. Programs seek students proficient in math and show evidence of enthusiasm for problem-solving and a strong work ethic.
So, are you a good fit?
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Have you competed in math competitions?
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Have you taken advanced math courses?
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Completed independent projects that showcase your mathematical skills?
If so, these programs will be a valuable stepping stone for academic growth and long-term career success.

Mathematics Summer Programs -
Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
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Website: https://promys.org/
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Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
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Description: Explore the depths of mathematics in a stimulating environment at Boston University.
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Requirements: Strong mathematical background, completion of application problem set.
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Eligibility: Students aged 14-18, of any nationality.
Ross Mathematics Program
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Website: https://rossprogram.org/
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: Deep dive into number theory through intensive lectures and collaboration.
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Requirements: Interest in deep mathematical thinking, previous course work in algebra.
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Eligibility: High school students.
Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)
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Website: https://hcssim.org/
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Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
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Description: This six-week intensive summer program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of advanced mathematics. The curriculum includes lectures, problem-solving sessions, and individual research in mathematical topics.
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Requirements: Demonstrated interest and ability in mathematics, recommendations.
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Eligibility: High school students, ages 16-18, internationally.
Canada/USA Mathcamp
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Website: https://www.mathcamp.org/
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Application Deadline: March 20, 2025
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Description: Mathcamp is an intensive 5-week summer program where students learn various advanced topics in mathematics through classes, guest lectures, and social events.
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Requirements: Qualifying quiz, passion for math, and creativity in problem-solving.
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Eligibility: Students aged 13-18 from any country.
Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
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Website: https://sumac.spcs.stanford.edu/
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Application Deadline: January 30, 2025
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Description: SUMaC welcomes students who wish to engage in a deep exploration of challenging mathematics and develop research skills in algebraic and geometric topology or number theory.
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Requirements: Strong interest in mathematics, previous coursework in algebra and geometry, teacher recommendation.
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Eligibility: Students aged 14-17 from around the world.
Awesome Math Summer Program
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: This program focuses on problem-solving skills in pre-college mathematics competitions. It covers topics not usually encountered in the school curriculum, fostering mathematical insight and creativity.
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Requirements: Completion of application problems, recommendation letters.
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Eligibility: Middle and high school students interested in mathematics competitions.
MathILy (Math Infinitely Large)
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Website: https://www.mathily.org/
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: MathILy is a serious (but whimsical!) advanced summer program for mathematically excellent students. The curriculum focuses on rigorous mathematics through engaging and creative activities.
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Requirements: High aptitude and enthusiasm for mathematics, teacher recommendation.
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Eligibility: High school students worldwide.
Berkeley Math Circle Summer Program
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Website: https://mathcircle.berkeley.edu/
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Application Deadline: April 10, 2025
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Description: The program offers a blend of instructional and experimental mathematics to stimulate interest and achievement in advanced math topics and problem-solving.
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Requirements: Interest in mathematics, completion of a qualifying exam.
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Eligibility: High school students globally.
Introduction for Science and Engineering Summer Programs:
In today’s world, gaining hands-on experience in science and engineering is essential for standing out in a highly competitive job market. Careers in engineering are projected to grow by 6% in the next 5 years, yet competition for top programs and career opportunities remains intense. Participating in a prestigious summer program can open the door to a top engineering program that can later lead to exceptional career opportunities in aerospace, robotics, and renewable energy fields.
Programs like ESAP (Engineering Summer Academy at Penn State) and Stanford Pre-College Engineering offer students the opportunity to participate in research, explore various engineering disciplines, and be exposed to university-level coursework. Being a part of summer programs in these disciplines will give you an idea of how rigorous the engineering field can be while fostering problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
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Have you taken advanced coursework in STEM?
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Have you participated in a robotics club or a coding competition?
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Have you participated in a science fair or conducted an engineering project?
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Do you have teachers who can write compelling recommendation letters that attest to your work ethic or skill level?
Obtaining admission into these programs is highly competitive, as they require a strong foundation in science and math, exceptional academic performance, and compelling teacher recommendations. The ideal candidates are motivated students eager to grow their understanding of engineering and explore specialized disciplines such as robotics, nanotechnology, or advanced physics. By gaining hands-on experience from top universities, they will set themselves apart from other applicants in the college admissions process while advancing their skill level in the field.

Science & Engineering Summer Programs -
Engineering Summer Academy at Penn
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Website: https://esap.seas.upenn.edu/
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Application Deadline: February 24, 2025
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Description: Explore engineering disciplines including robotics, nanotechnology, and computer science at the University of Pennsylvania.
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Requirements: Strong foundation in science and math, teacher recommendation.
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Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores to seniors, international applicants welcome.
Stanford University Summer Session
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Website: https://summer.stanford.edu/
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Application Deadline: February 15, 202 5
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Description: Participate in college-level courses in engineering and physical sciences on Stanford’s campus.
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Requirements: Academic excellence, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
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Eligibility: Students aged 16-19, globally.
Introduction for English & Writing Summer Programs:
Refining your writing requires more than just classes in English; it takes immersing yourself in writing and mentorship from accomplished writers and teachers. Participating in prestigious summer programs can improve a student's writing significantly and boost their resume for college applications. However, it's important to note how competitive these programs are. According to Lumiere Education, Iowa Young Writer's Studio has an estimated acceptance rate between 15-20%, and Telluride has an even smaller acceptance rate of 3-5%. Princeton's Summer Journalism program has a three-round admissions process and accepts a cohort of only 40 students.
This data shows the importance of preparing strong applications that often require writing samples, strong personal statements, and even portfolios demonstrating the student's writing skill level. These programs allow you to explore genres, foster creativity, collaborate on research projects, and develop a portfolio to set you apart in college admissions. Whether you are passionate about poetry, creative writing, screenwriting, or humanities research – there is a program for everyone's interest and skill level.
Is a writing summer program right for you? Ask yourself the following questions:
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Do you have a passion for writing?
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Do you want to improve your storytelling and communication skills?
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Have you participated in writing competitions or have any work published?
Participating in prestigious writing programs can be a life-changing experience if you answered yes to any of these questions. Beyond honing their craft, students can showcase their talent, develop their voice as writers, and receive expert feedback to enhance their growth and future career prospects.

English & Writing Summer Programs -
Iowa Young Writers' Studio
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Website: https://iyws.clas.uiowa.edu/
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Application Deadline: March 5, 2025
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Description: Develop your writing skills in various genres under the guidance of accomplished authors and educators.
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Requirements: Submission of two writing samples.
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Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18.
Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop
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Website: https://rossprogram.org/
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: Deep dive into number theory through intensive lectures and collaboration.
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Requirements: Interest in deep mathematical thinking, previous course work in algebra.
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Eligibility: High school students.
Stanford Summer Humanities Institute
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Application Deadline: January 15, 2025
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Description: Students engage in college-level humanities research focusing on philosophy, literature, and history. The program lasts three weeks and includes a combination of seminars and collaborative research projects.
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Requirements: Personal statement, writing sample, academic transcript.
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Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors worldwide.
Tisch School of the Arts Writing Program
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Website: https://tisch.nyu.edu/special-programs/high-school-programs/dramatic-writing.html
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: Offered by NYU, this four-week workshop allows students to explore different genres in creative writing, from screenwriting to poetry, under the guidance of expert instructors and guest artists.
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Requirements: A portfolio of creative work.
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Eligibility: Students completing grades 10-12.
Sarah Lawrence College Summer Writers Workshop for High School Students
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Website: https://www.sarahlawrence.edu/writing-institute/courses/
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Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
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Description: Participants develop their voice in a collaborative setting, focusing on poetry, fiction, or creative non-fiction through workshops, craft talks, and individual conferences with faculty.
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Requirements: Writing sample of up to 10 pages.
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Eligibility: Rising sophomores to seniors from anywhere in the world.
Interlochen Arts Camp Creative Writing Program
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: This program focuses on problem-solving skills in pre-college mathematics competitions. It covers topics not usually encountered in the school curriculum, fostering mathematical insight and creativity.
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Requirements: Completion of application problems, recommendation letters.
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Eligibility: Middle and high school students interested in mathematics competitions.
University of Virginia Young Writers Workshop
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: A residential program that fosters traditional and experimental approaches to writing. The curriculum includes workshops, craft seminars, and individual mentoring.
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Requirements: Personal statement, writing sample.
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Eligibility: High school students, international applicants welcome.
The New England Young Writers' Conference at Middlebury College
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Website: https://mathcircle.berkeley.edu/
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Application Deadline: April 10, 2025
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Description: The program offers a blend of instructional and experimental mathematics to stimulate interest and achievement in advanced math topics and problem-solving.
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Requirements: Interest in mathematics, completion of a qualifying exam.
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Eligibility: High school students globally.
Walnut Hill School for the Arts Summer Writing Program
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: A five-week, college-level writing course encouraging students to explore different forms of writing while developing a portfolio of work including poetry, short fiction, and plays.
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Requirements: Two writing samples.
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Eligibility: Students ages 13-18.
Pratt Institute PreCollege Summer Program in Creative Writing
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Website: https://www.pratt.edu/continuing-and-professional-studies/precollege/summer-precollege/
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Application Deadline: March 30, 2025
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Description: Offers young writers an opportunity to hone their skills through intensive writing classes and cultural activities over a four-week period.
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Requirements: A personal essay and a creative writing sample.
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Eligibility: High school students completing grades 9-12, internationally.
Introduction to Art Summer Programs:
According to Straits Research, the global art market is projected to be valued at $945 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 6.15%. This projected value shows that the demand for art in various forms is rising. For aspiring artists, honing your craft takes mentorship, feedback, and developing technical and creative skills. Summer programs at top art universities such as Rhode Island School of Design, Parsons, and UCLA provide students with quality experience, access to top facilities, the opportunity to explore various art disciplines, and expert 1:1 mentorship from accomplished artists and designers.
Whether you are passionate about painting, sculpture, digital media, or design, these programs offer rigorous coursework tailored to various art disciplines. Students can develop new disciplines, build their portfolios, and refine their artistic voice in a collaborative environment where they will receive feedback.
Do I qualify for an art summer program?
Ask yourself:
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Have you taken art classes or engaged in any independent art projects?
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Do you have a portfolio showcasing your work?
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Are you eager to explore new techniques and artistic mediums?
You have a strong chance of qualifying if you answered yes to one of the questions. If you choose to apply and can secure a spot at a prestigious summer art program – this can be a pathway to top art programs and careers in the future.

Art Summer Programs -
Rhode Island School of Design - Pre-College Program
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Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
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Description: Immerse yourself in art and design practices in one of the most prestigious art schools in the U.S.
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Requirements: Portfolio, statement of purpose.
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Eligibility: Students completing grades 9-12, internationally.
California College of the Arts Pre-College Program
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Website: https://www.cca.edu/academics/pre-college/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=cp_24_youth_cv_lead-google-pmax_ca&utm_term=leads&utm_content=ca&utm_source_platform=all&utm_creative_format=pmax&utm_marketing_tactic=lead&gad_source=1&gclid=cj0kcqjwhys_bhd2arisajtmmqyo6fzabl98urrsusxigv-yyhizkzwbswr-zahthhnyakoofvfshduaajbeealw_wcb
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Application Deadline: April 10, 2025
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Description: Experience life as an art student and develop a portfolio that stands out in college applications.
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Requirements: Portfolio review, personal statement.
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Eligibility: Rising sophomores to seniors.
California Institute of the Arts Summer Art Intensive
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Website: https://extendedstudies.calarts.edu/summer-intensives
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: Students participate in workshops and classes in various disciplines including drawing, painting, and digital arts, taught by CalArts faculty and visiting artists.
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Requirements: Portfolio of recent work, statement of interest.
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Eligibility: High school students from any country, ages 14-18.
Interlochen Arts Camp Visual Arts Program
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Website: https://www.interlochen.org/visual-arts/camp-programs
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Application Deadline: January 15, 2025
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Description: Located in Michigan, this program offers training in painting, sculpture, and digital media, enhancing students’ artistic expression and technical skills.
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Requirements: Submission of a portfolio, artist statement.
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Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12, globally.
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) Pre-College Art and Design Residency Program
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Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
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Description: MICA offers a rigorous three-week program where students explore various art and design disciplines while preparing for college-level work.
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Requirements: Portfolio, recommendation letter.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors, internationally.
School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) Early College Program Summer Institute
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Website: https://www.saic.edu/high-school-programs/early-college-program-summer-institute?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhYS_BhD2ARIsAJTMMQYVcy8h8_XVLbQ7FGslty-ukyH8pyTcu3sC4PG8vOd1r1Nknp5ZRLwaAmWcEALw_wcB
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Application Deadline: April 10, 2025
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Description: SAIC’s summer program allows students to explore their artistic practice in an immersive environment, offering courses in drawing, painting, sculpture, and new media.
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Requirements: Portfolio review, statement of purpose.
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Eligibility: Students aged 15-18, completing grades 10-12.
Parsons School of Design Summer Intensive Studies
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Website: https://www.newschool.edu/parsons/youth-teen-summer-ny/
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Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
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Description: This program in New York City offers high school students the opportunity to study at one of the top art and design schools, focusing on drawing, digital design, and 3D design.
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Requirements: A portfolio, a short essay.
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Eligibility: High school students from all countries, aged 16-18.
Pratt Institute PreCollege Summer Program
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Website: https://www.pratt.edu/continuing-and-professional-studies/precollege/summer-precollege/
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Application Deadline: March 30, 2025
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Description: Offers courses in fine arts, design, and creative writing among others, providing students with rigorous instruction and college credits.
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Requirements: Portfolio of 5-10 works, personal essay.
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Eligibility: Students completing grades 9-12, internationally.
Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Art Program
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Website: https://www.cmu.edu/pre-college/academic-programs/art.html
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Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
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Description: Students experience life at a top-tier university while developing their artistic skills through studio work and critique.
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Requirements: Portfolio submission, artist statement.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.
Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Art Program
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Website: https://www.cmu.edu/pre-college/academic-programs/art.html
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Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
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Description: Students experience life at a top-tier university while developing their artistic skills through studio work and critique.
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Requirements: Portfolio submission, artist statement.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.
Cooper Union Summer Art Intensive
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Website: https://cooper.edu/academics/outreach-and-pre-college/summer-art-intensive
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: A rigorous, portfolio-based program that helps students develop a body of work in fine arts under the guidance of professional artists and educators.
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Requirements: Portfolio of recent artworks, personal statement.
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Eligibility: High school students, ages 15-18.
UCLA Art Summer Institute
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Website: https://summer.ucla.edu/program/art-summer-institute/
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Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
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Description: This program provides an overview of the visual arts, offering studio courses in painting, drawing, sculpture, and photography, taught by UCLA faculty.
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Requirements: Submission of a portfolio, academic transcripts.
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Eligibility: Students aged 14-18.
Introduction to Business Summer Programs:
The business field attracts many students eager to explore careers in accounting or finance, marketing, human resources, operations, and management. Business summer programs provide the opportunity to dive into entrepreneurship, gain business strategy knowledge, and develop leadership skills essential for college applications. Top programs such as Wharton’s Leadership in the Business World and Harvard Summer School Business are highly selective — and according to Lumiere Education, acceptance rates into these programs are as low as 20% — which gives evidence of their prestige and competitiveness.
But imagine how acceptance into one of these programs would strengthen your college application AND increase your knowledge and skills.
A strong application showcasing academic achievement, leadership experience, and extracurricular activities, especially business-related ones, can increase your chances of obtaining a spot.
Is a business program right for you?
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Ask yourself:
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Do you have a passion for business?
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Are you involved in any business-related clubs like FBLA?
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Do you hold any leadership positions within those business clubs?
If yes, these programs could be the perfect choice for you. If your goal is to get into a top business program and obtain a job in finance or a management position within a Fortune 500 or to start a successful business, you must start somewhere, and this is the perfect first step.

Business Summer Programs-
Leadership in the Business World at Wharton
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Website: https://globalyouth.wharton.upenn.edu/programs-courses/leadership-in-the-business-world/
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Application Deadline: February 1, 2025
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Description: Gain insights into the business world through lectures and experiences guided by Wharton faculty.
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Requirements: Demonstrated leadership potential, academic transcripts.
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Eligibility: Rising high school seniors.
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Business Association
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Website: https://spba.sites.stanford.edu/
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Application Deadline: February 20, 2025
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Description: Learn about entrepreneurship and business strategies from Stanford faculty and Silicon Valley professionals.
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Requirements: Interest in business, extracurricular achievements.
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Eligibility: High school students, international students accepted.
Harvard Summer School - Business and Leadership Programs
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Website: Harvard Summer School
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Application Deadline: January 25, 2025
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Description: Harvard offers various summer courses in business and leadership that allow students to learn from esteemed faculty and gain insight into business operations at a global level.
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Requirements: Online application, school transcript, and teacher recommendation.
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Eligibility: High school students entering their junior or senior year.
Columbia Business School Summer Program
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Website: Columbia Business Summer
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Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
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Description: This rigorous program introduces young scholars to the fundamentals of business, including entrepreneurship and marketing, through interactive classes and hands-on projects.
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Requirements: Academic transcript, recommendation letter, personal statement.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors worldwide.
NYU Stern Pre-College Summer Program
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Website: NYU Stern Summer
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Application Deadline: March 30, 2025
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Description: Offered by the prestigious Stern School of Business, this program allows students to explore key areas of business such as finance, marketing, and law through dynamic courses and seminars.
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Requirements: High school transcript, essay, and interview.
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Eligibility: High school students completing grades 10-12.
University of Chicago Booth School of Business Summer Scholars
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Website: UChicago Booth Scholars
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Application Deadline: April 10, 2025
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Description: This three-week program provides an introduction to the foundations of business theory and practice, preparing students for the challenges of business school and beyond.
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Requirements: Leadership demonstration, academic excellence, and a passion for business.
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Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors.
Babson Entrepreneurial Development Experience
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Website: Babson College
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Application Deadline: March 15, 2025
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Description: Focuses on entrepreneurial thinking and innovative problem-solving, giving students the tools to start and manage their own business ventures.
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Requirements: Essay about entrepreneurial interests, recommendations.
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Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors globally.
Kelley School of Business Young Entrepreneurs Program
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Website: Kelley YEP
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: Indiana University's Kelley School of Business hosts this dynamic program that immerses students in the world of entrepreneurship and business management.
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Requirements: Academic record, letter of motivation.
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Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors.
Michigan Ross Business Academy
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Website: Michigan Ross
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Application Deadline: February 20, 2025
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Description: This program provides a deep dive into business fundamentals with a focus on developing leadership and team-building skills.
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Requirements: Personal essay, high school transcript.
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Eligibility: Students entering grades 11 and 12, internationally.
Berkeley Haas Business Academy
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Website: Berkeley Haas
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Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
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Description: Offers high school students an opportunity to study business fundamentals and leadership at one of the top business schools in the world.
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Requirements: Essay on business interest, extracurricular activities.
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Eligibility: High school students from any country, ages 14-18.
Introduction to Political Science, Public Policy, & Leadership Summer Programs:
If you want to create change, be a positive influence, or shape policy and laws, pursuing a public policy or political science career might be the right choice. Acting early by participating in a summer program will give you an advantage, helping you build up your profile and resume for the future. Political science and leadership summer programs offer hands-on experience in debates, simulations, and exploration of US politics and international relations. Some have even studied media's impact on politics, which is crucial in today's digital era.
Many of these programs are hosted at prestigious universities such as Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and Georgetown, which expose students to top facilities and faculty. However, admissions into these programs are highly competitive. For instance, according to PrepScholar, Yale Young Global Scholars receives about 7,000 applications annually but accepts only about 2,4000. Due to its competitive nature, it is necessary to craft a standout application.
Is a Political Science, Public Policy, or Leadership Program the right fit for you?
Ask yourself:
Have you participated in student government at your school?
Have you been a part of a debate club or similar activity?
Are you involved in Model UN?
Do you enjoy debating or analyzing legal systems?
If you answered yes, applying could be a valuable next step in your journey, providing networking that can open doors to future academic and career opportunities.

Political Science, Public Policy & Leadership Summer Programs -
Junior Statesmen Summer School
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Website: Junior Statesmen
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Application Deadline: March 30, 2025
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Description: Participate in debates, simulations, and study political theory to develop leadership and civic engagement.
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Requirements: Essay on a current political issue, recommendation letter.
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Eligibility: Students in grades 9-11, both U.S. and international students.
Telluride Association Summer Program (TASP)
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Website: TASP
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Application Deadline: January 20, 2025
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Description: Engage in intensive seminars focused on democratic governance and social challenges.
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Requirements: Application essays, interview.
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Eligibility: High school juniors globally.
Harvard Summer School - Government and Politics Program
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Website: Harvard Summer School
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Application Deadline: February 10, 2025
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Description: This program allows students to explore various facets of political science and international relations through Harvard University’s renowned curriculum and resources.
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Requirements: High school transcript, recommendation letter, and personal essay.
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Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors worldwide.
Interlochen Arts Camp Visual Arts Program
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Website: https://www.interlochen.org/visual-arts/camp-programs
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Application Deadline: January 15, 2025
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Description: Located in Michigan, this program offers training in painting, sculpture, and digital media, enhancing students’ artistic expression and technical skills.
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Requirements: Submission of a portfolio, artist statement.
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Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12, globally.
Stanford University Summer Session - Political Science Intensive
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Website: Stanford Summer Session
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Application Deadline: January 31, 2025
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Description: Stanford’s summer session offers high school students the chance to dive deep into political theories, comparative politics, and political analysis with experienced Stanford faculty.
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Requirements: Academic excellence, demonstrated interest in political science.
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Eligibility: High school students aged 16-19 from around the globe.
Georgetown University Pre-College Program - American Politics Academy
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Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
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Description: Focused on U.S. governmental structures and political institutions, this program encourages students to debate current issues and learn about the mechanics of U.S. political processes.
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Requirements: Essay on a current political issue, academic transcripts.
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Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
Columbia University Summer Program for High School Students - Political Science
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Website: Columbia Summer Program
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Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
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Description: Columbia’s summer program invites students to explore political science through lectures and seminars led by Columbia faculty, focusing on global politics, political theory, and public policy.
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Requirements: Personal statement, school records.
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Eligibility: Students completing grades 9-12, internationally.
University of Chicago Summer Session - Public Policy Lab
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Website: UChicago Public Policy Lab
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Application Deadline: March 20, 2025
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Description: This program offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding public policy, economics, and sociology, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing policy decisions.
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Requirements: Interest in public policy, leadership potential.
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Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.
American University School of Public Affairs Leadership Program
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Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
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Description: Students engage in workshops and simulations that mirror real-world political and policy-making scenarios, designed to develop their leadership skills and understanding of international relations.
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Requirements: Leadership essay, recommendation letters.
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Eligibility: High school students worldwide, aged 15-18.
Yale Young Global Scholars - Politics, Law, and Economics Session
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Website: YYGS Politics, Law, and Economics
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Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
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Description: This session at Yale offers students a global perspective on political and economic principles, law, and leadership through lectures, seminars, and group projects.
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Requirements: Application form, essays, school report, two teacher recommendations.
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Eligibility: Students aged 15-17, internationally.
Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Commuter Program - Political Science Track
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Application Deadline: April 5, 2025
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Description: Offers high school students the opportunity to study political science subjects at UC Berkeley, exploring American politics, international relations, and public policy.
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Requirements: Interest in politics, short essays.
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Eligibility: Rising sophomores to seniors.
Princeton Summer Journalism Program
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Website: Princeton SJP
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Application Deadline: February 15, 2025
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Description: While primarily focused on journalism, this program includes elements of political science, ethics, and leadership, teaching students how media influences public policy and politics.
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Requirements: Interest in journalism and politics, academic transcripts.
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Eligibility: Low-income high school juniors.