Pre-College Summer Programs for High School Students

When reviewing your application, admissions committees want to see that you have used your summers productively. From earning money at a summer job to participating in an internship, you will need to show that you have done something worthwhile.

If you want to get a taste of college life and learn something new, summer programs can be a great option. These programs often take place on college campuses, and many focus on specific areas of academic or professional interest, so you’ll find out what college is really like and participate in activities you enjoy—all while building up your resume for your applications. Below, we’ve put together a compilation of the top CollegeVine summer program guides to help you find a program that is right for you.

General Guides to Summer Programs

3 Effective Summer Activities

From highly selective, free programs to academic and pre-college camps, Effective Summer Activities offers plenty of ideas for summer programs for high school students.

Affordable Academic Summer Programs for High School Students

If you want to participate in a summer program but are concerned about the cost, check out Affordable Academic Summer Programs for High School Students. This guide has plenty of ideas for free or cheap academic and specialty programs for high schoolers.

Niche or Interest-Specific Programs

Summer Programs for Prospective Theater Majors

Are you an aspiring actor? Check out Summer Programs for Prospective Theater Majors to hone your acting chops.

How to Get Into Wharton School’s Leadership in the Business World

If you are thinking of becoming a business major, the Wharton School’s Leadership in the Business World is a great choice for rising high school seniors. This program is hosted by UPenn’s prestigious business school and gives you the opportunity to learn about the business world and connect with successful industry leaders.

How to Spend Your Summer as a Prospective Poli Sci Major

Thinking of majoring in political science? There are many ways to expand your knowledge of poli sci, and How to Spend Your Summer as a Prospective Poli Sci Major gives you numerous ideas for activities to do over the summer, including summer programs.

Summer Activities for the Future BS/MD Applicant

Many top colleges with medical schools offer summer programs for high school students. Find some ideas in Summer Activities for the Future BS/MD Applicant.

A Guide to the RISD Pre-College Program

Young artists can refine work on drawing, graphic design, sculpting, and other artistic endeavors in the high school summer program at the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Read A Guide to the RISD Pre-College Program to learn more.

Guide to Governor’s School

Gifted and high-achieving students may be interested in Governor’s School, available in 23 states. Governor’s School is a residential program that encourages a constructive learning environment for ambitious students to explore their potential in various disciplines. Check out our Guide to Governor’s School for more information.

Summer Activity Ideas for the Hopeful Future Lawyer

While participating in a law program as a high school student probably won’t get you into law school, it may be a valuable addition to your undergraduate applications. We list several leadership and law summer programs in Summer Activity Ideas for the Hopeful Future Lawyer.

How to Apply to the Senate Page Program

High school juniors who are interested in politics or leadership should check out the Senate Page Program, a selective U.S. Senate program that basically functions as an internship. Learn more from How to Apply to the Senate Page Program.

Creative Writing Opportunities for High School Students

Is writing your calling? Creative Writing Opportunities for High School Students gives you plenty of ideas, including summer programs, for places to showcase your writing and sharpen your craft.

Extracurricular Ideas for the Aspiring Journalist

Writers may also be interested in journalism programs. Check out Extracurricular Activities for the Aspiring Journalist to find programs geared towards high school students interested in journalism.

How to Spend Your Summer as an Aspiring Engineer

Looking to major in Engineering? You’ll find plenty of ideas for boosting your resume, including summer programs, in How to Spend Your Summer as an Aspiring Engineer.

A Guide to Girls and Boys State

A highly selective leadership and government program, Girls and Boys State is one of the most respected summer programs in the country. Learn more through A Guide to Girls and Boys State.

Girls and Boys Nation—An Extension of Boys and Girls State

Like Girls and Boys State, Girls and Boys Nation gives you an incomparable leadership experience. Learn about the program and its requirements through Girls and Boys Nation—An Extension of Girls and Boys State.

How to Spend Your Summer as a Prospective Math Major (And Why Math is a Great Career Path)

There are plenty of summer programs that introduce math whizzes to potential careers and applications for math skills. Check out How to Spend Your Summer as a Prospective Math Major (And Why Math is a Great Career Path) for some of our top picks.

How should you spend your summers leading up to college? How do you become a standout student? Check out our free guide for 9th graders, and our free guide for 10th graders. Our guides go in-depth about subjects ranging from academics, choosing courses, standardized tests, extracurricular activities, and much more!

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