Updated October 2026
TL;DR
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a free, residential summer program for intellectually curious high school sophomores and juniors. It offers an intensive, discussion-based learning experience through two seminar tracks: Critical Black Studies (TASS-CBS) and Anti-Oppressive Studies (TASS-AOS). You read challenging texts, develop arguments, write essays, and learn alongside peers who are passionate about exploring ideas. If you are exploring other research opportunities, you can also learn about the Lumiere Research Scholar Program.
Are you interested in history, literature, philosophy, politics, or social justice? The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) lets you explore these subjects beyond the classroom. You’ll read, write, discuss ideas, and take part in college-level conversations with other high school students. The focus is on asking questions, challenging assumptions, and understanding different points of view rather than earning grades. You’ll also be part of a residential community where students work together, make decisions, and learn through debate. You can find more opportunities in our guide to humanities summer programs for high school students.
(Program update: Telluride Association is not running TASS summer sessions in 2027 while it reviews the program and plans for its future. Check the official TASS 2027 announcement for updates.)
What Is the Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)?
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a free, residential summer program for high school sophomores and juniors. It offers an intensive, discussion-based academic experience centered on the humanities and social sciences.
You explore challenging texts, develop evidence-based arguments, write essays, and exchange ideas with peers who share your curiosity.
TASS offers two seminar tracks: Critical Black Studies (TASS-CBS) and Anti-Oppressive Studies (TASS-AOS). Beyond academics, you also take part in a collaborative residential community that focuses on discussion, shared responsibility, and democratic decision-making.
What will you study at TASS?
TASS focuses on how power and privilege shape social structures through humanities and social sciences. You can explore these questions through two seminar tracks, each with its own academic emphasis.
1. TASS-CBS: Critical Black Studies
TASS-CBS explores the intellectual, cultural, historical, and political contributions of people of African descent. Seminar topics can draw from history, politics, literature, art, and related disciplines. You examine how ideas, institutions, and cultural movements shape society while learning to interpret texts, question assumptions, and build evidence-based arguments. This track is a good fit if you want to explore Black history, culture, politics, and intellectual traditions in depth.
2. TASS-AOS: Anti-Oppressive Studies
TASS-AOS examines how systems of power and oppression shape social structures. Topics can include white supremacy, patriarchy, classism, literature, history, art, and approaches to social change. You explore how these systems influence people’s experiences and institutions, while considering how individuals and communities can challenge inequality. Check the official TASS program description for the association’s current explanation of both areas of study.
If you want to explore more research questions in history, philosophy, literature, and other humanities subjects, browse these 200 humanities research topics for high school students!
What is the TASS academic experience like?
TASS uses a college-level seminar format built around discussion, close reading, and writing. You engage with ideas, discuss different interpretations, and develop your own arguments.
1. Discussion-based classes
The academic experience centers on discussion and small-group work, supported by faculty instruction and other learning activities. You are expected to participate actively, listen carefully, and explain your reasoning.
2. Reading and analytical writing
You read books, articles, and other materials, which may include films and art. You also write essays and receive guidance and feedback to strengthen your critical reading, reasoning, and writing skills.
3. Learning without traditional grades
TASS emphasizes learning for its own sake rather than competition for grades. Its academic approach encourages you to explore unfamiliar ideas, ask questions, and develop your intellectual interests.
4. Community living and democratic decision-making
Learning continues outside the classroom. You work with fellow participants to plan activities, make community decisions, and help maintain an inclusive environment. The program also emphasizes community service, public speaking, and approaches to resolving conflict.
These academic and community experiences are central to TASS’s approach. For the most up-to-date description of its format, consult the official program page.
Who is eligible for TASS?
TASS is designed for high school sophomores and juniors, including rising juniors and rising seniors. The program welcomes applicants from the United States and internationally, subject to the eligibility rules for the relevant application cycle.
The eligibility requirements include:
- School year: You are a high school sophomore or junior, or the equivalent specified in the program’s eligibility rules.
- Age: You meet the program’s minimum and maximum age requirements.
- Interest in learning: You are eager to explore challenging ideas, participate in discussion, and learn with a community of peers.
- International applicants: You may apply from outside the United States, although additional grade and age rules can apply depending on your circumstances.
The precise age limits and other eligibility details are tied to the application cycle. Since TASS is not accepting applications for summer 2027, do not rely on dates from an earlier cycle as the requirements for a future one. Check the official TASS eligibility and applicant FAQ when a new cycle is announced.
How does the TASS application process work?
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) application asks about your interests, ideas, and writing. When applications open, you need to complete the written application and follow the instructions for each prompt.
The selection process may include an interview. Recommendation requirements can also vary by stage, so review the official instructions before submitting an application.
Before applying, keep these points in mind:
- Check eligibility: Review the age and grade requirements in the official TASS FAQ.
- Choose one seminar track: Apply to either Critical Black Studies (TASS-CBS) or Anti-Oppressive Studies (TASS-AOS).
- Prepare your written responses: Answer each prompt clearly and follow the application instructions.
- Check recommendation requirements: Recommendations are not required at the initial application stage under the established process, but may be requested during the interview stage.
- Check application dates: TASS is paused for summer 2027, and the next application dates have not been announced. Read the official TASS 2027 announcement for updates.
What skills will you develop through TASS?
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) helps you develop skills in critical thinking, reading, writing, and discussion. These skills can support your high school studies and future academic work.
- Critical thinking: Evaluate arguments, question assumptions, and examine different points of view.
- Analytical reading: Identify key ideas, interpret texts, and assess evidence.
- Academic writing: Organize your ideas, build arguments, and support claims with evidence.
- Communication: Explain your ideas, listen to others, and take part in group discussions.
- Teamwork: Work with peers, make group decisions, and manage shared responsibilities.
- Independent thinking: Explore research questions, form your own views, and explain your reasoning.
These skills are useful in humanities, social sciences, and other academic fields that involve reading, writing, research, and discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Telluride Association is not offering TASS summer sessions in 2027 while it reviews the program. The association says it intends for TASS to return renewed and refreshed, but it has not announced a new application cycle or return date. Follow the official TASS 2027 announcement for updates.
Yes. TASS’s established model covers tuition, books, room and board, field trips, and facilities fees for admitted participants. Eligible students may also receive help with travel expenses or support to replace summer earnings. Check the official program page for any updates when applications reopen.
TASS is designed for high school sophomores and juniors who are intellectually curious, self-motivated, and interested in learning with others. US and international applicants are welcome, subject to the program’s grade and age rules. Confirm the exact requirements for the next application cycle through the official applicant FAQ.
You can explore other academic programs based on your interests. If you want to develop a research project with academic guidance, consider Horizon Academic Research Program.
Image source: Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)