Top Pre-College Programs in the US for High School Students

Exploring college life before you even set foot on campus has become a reality for many high school students across the United States. A diverse range of pre-college, research, and internship programs not only boost academic profiles but also offer immersive experiences that pave the way for future success. Here’s an in-depth look at 25 Top Pre-College Programs in the US high school students can benefit from, complete with details on what each has to offer.

1. Harvard Pre-College Program

Harvard’s program offers a residential experience where students dive into college-level courses in subjects like literature, science, and social studies. Beyond the rigorous academics, participants enjoy workshops, cultural events, and campus tours that provide a taste of life at one of the world’s most prestigious universities.

Typically held in Summer 2025 from early July to early August; applications are due by March 15, 2025

2. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

Stanford’s summer institutes let students explore advanced topics such as artificial intelligence, creative writing, and environmental science. With a mix of interactive lectures, hands-on projects, and small-group discussions, students get a glimpse of the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit that defines Stanford.

Scheduled for Summer 2025 from July 1 to August 5; applications are due by April 1, 2025

3. MITES (Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science) at MIT

Aimed at students from underrepresented backgrounds, MITES is a free, six-week summer program that introduces participants to engineering, science, and technology. Through hands-on lab work, collaborative projects, and mentorship from MIT faculty, students gain valuable exposure to STEM fields in a supportive environment.

Typically running from mid-June to late July 2025; applications are due by February 28, 2025

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4. Yale Young Global Scholars (YYGS)

YYGS is a highly selective, residential program that engages high school students in interdisciplinary studies, international relations, and leadership development. Through seminars, group projects, and debates, participants develop a global perspective while experiencing Yale’s rich academic culture.

Usually a three-week session in July 2025; applications are due by March 1, 2025

5. Columbia Summer Programs for High School Students

Set in the heart of New York City, Columbia’s program offers courses in journalism, arts, and sciences. Students not only earn academic credits but also explore the city’s cultural landmarks, blending rigorous academics with real-world experiences in one of the world’s most dynamic urban centers.

Sessions typically held from mid-June to early August 2025; final deadlines around April 15, 2025

6. University of Chicago Summer Session

This program provides an immersive academic experience where students take college-level courses and engage in research projects. The University of Chicago’s renowned emphasis on critical thinking and debate encourages students to explore complex ideas in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.

Generally offered in Summer 2025 from July to early August; applications are due by April 1, 2025

7. Caltech Summer Programs for High School Students

At Caltech, the focus is on cultivating scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills. High schoolers participate in intensive coursework and research projects in fields like astrophysics and chemistry, working side by side with some of the brightest minds in science and engineering.

Typically a 6- to 8-week program during Summer 2025; applications are due by March 1, 2025

8. UPenn Pre-College Programs

University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of programs where students can explore subjects ranging from business and law to arts and humanities. With courses designed by top faculty, students experience the rigors of a college curriculum while enjoying the supportive campus culture that UPenn is known for.

Sessions usually run from early July to mid-August 2025; applications are due by April 15, 2025

9. Duke TIP Summer Studies

The Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) offers summer studies that challenge gifted students with advanced coursework and creative projects. The residential program combines academic rigor with extracurricular activities and leadership workshops, fostering both intellectual and personal growth.

Typically held as a 3- to 4-week session in Summer 2025; applications are due by February 15, 2025

10. Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY)

CTY hosts a variety of summer courses for academically gifted high school students. Whether on-campus or online, CTY’s courses in mathematics, science, and humanities are designed to challenge students beyond the standard high school curriculum, preparing them for future academic pursuits.

With various sessions available between June and August 2025; applications are due by March 15, 2025

11. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Programs

Carnegie Mellon offers specialized programs that cater to interests in robotics, computer science, and the performing arts. With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and creative problem-solving, students gain direct exposure to the innovative projects and research taking place at this tech-focused institution.

Typically offered in 4- to 6-week sessions during July 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

12. Cornell University Summer College

Cornell’s Summer College allows high school students to enroll in college-level courses across diverse fields such as engineering, business, and the liberal arts. The program provides a residential college experience along with academic advising and mentorship, giving students a realistic taste of university life.

Usually held from early July to early August 2025; applications are due by April 15, 2025

13. Princeton Summer Journalism Program

Designed specifically for low-income high school students interested in journalism, Princeton’s program offers intensive training in reporting, writing, and media ethics. Participants work closely with experienced journalists and educators, gaining insight into the professional world of journalism while developing their storytelling skills.

Typically a 3-week session in July 2025; applications are due by March 1, 2025

14. Berkeley Pre-College Programs

UC Berkeley provides a range of summer courses in STEM, arts, and social sciences, often combining academic learning with hands-on research opportunities. Students benefit from the university’s legacy of innovation and activism while engaging in projects that mirror real-world challenges.

Various sessions from mid-June to mid-August 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

15. UCLA Summer Sessions for High School Students

At UCLA, high schoolers can take part in summer sessions that include college-level coursework, interactive labs, and creative workshops. With exposure to subjects like film studies, biology, and digital media, students also experience the vibrant campus life of one of the nation’s leading public universities.

Sessions generally occur from early July to early August 2025; applications are due by April 15, 2025

16. University of Michigan Summer Enrichment Programs

Michigan’s programs offer a mix of academic courses, research projects, and creative workshops in areas such as engineering, business, and the arts. Students enjoy mentorship from faculty and opportunities to collaborate with peers, all while experiencing the school’s renowned balance of research and community spirit.

Typically held over 4- to 6-week sessions in Summer 2025; applications are due by March 15, 2025

17. Georgetown University Summer Programs

Georgetown’s pre-college programs focus on international relations, public policy, and leadership. Set against the backdrop of Washington, D.C., students are immersed in coursework that includes simulations, debates, and visits to key governmental institutions, providing a practical insight into global affairs and public service.

Usually a 3- to 4-week session in Summer 2025; applications are due by March 15, 2025

18. USC Summer Programs

The University of Southern California offers pre-college programs that blend rigorous academics with creative exploration. With courses available in film, business, technology, and more, USC provides students with immersive experiences, including campus tours and networking events with industry professionals.

Typically held in July and early August 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

19. Vanderbilt University Pre-College Programs

Vanderbilt’s summer programs offer courses in medicine, engineering, and humanities, often featuring hands-on workshops and interactive labs. The residential experience is designed to nurture curiosity and academic excellence while building lasting relationships with peers and faculty mentors.

Generally a 4- to 6-week session in Summer 2025; applications are due by March 15, 2025

20. Emory Pre-College Summer Program

Emory’s program combines academic courses in health sciences, public policy, and the liberal arts with cultural and community activities. High school students get the chance to work on projects, attend lectures by renowned scholars, and engage in discussions that encourage critical thinking and civic awareness.

Typically a 4-week session in Summer 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

21. UNC Chapel Hill Summer Programs

At UNC Chapel Hill, high school students can participate in summer enrichment programs that include academic classes, research internships, and campus immersion experiences. These programs emphasize experiential learning, allowing students to collaborate on research projects and explore potential career pathways in a supportive academic setting.

Usually offered as 4- to 6-week sessions in Summer 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

22. Boston College Summer Programs

Boston College offers pre-college sessions that integrate academic coursework with leadership development and ethical discussions. With a strong focus on the liberal arts and Jesuit values, students engage in seminars, community service projects, and interactive discussions that help shape their academic and personal goals.

Various sessions run from early July to early August 2025; applications are due by April 15, 2025

23. Texas A&M Summer Programs

Texas A&M provides summer programs focused on engineering, agriculture, and leadership development. These programs are known for their hands-on projects, lab experiences, and team-based challenges that highlight the university’s strong traditions and practical approach to learning.

Typically held over 4- to 6-week sessions in Summer 2025; applications are due by March 15, 2025

24. Purdue Pre-College Programs

At Purdue, students get a head start in STEM with summer programs that emphasize engineering, computer science, and technology. The hands-on curriculum, combined with research opportunities and interactive projects, prepares students for future studies in highly technical fields.

Generally a 4-week session during Summer 2025; applications are due by April 1, 2025

25. Northeastern University Co-op and Pre-College Programs

Northeastern’s unique blend of academic coursework and cooperative education gives high school students a taste of real-world work experience alongside traditional learning. The pre-college sessions cover subjects such as business, engineering, and computer science, while also introducing students to the co-op model that seamlessly integrates classroom learning with practical work assignments.

Typically held in July 2025; applications are due by March 31, 2025