If you’re a high school student in Los Angeles interested in exploring subjects beyond your school’s curriculum, pre-college programs are a great way to do that! They give you the chance to learn from professionals, pick up new skills, and get hands-on experience in areas you’re curious about.
Pre-college programs are different from regular summer programs; they’re more structured, follow a college-level format, and are often run by well-known universities. In LA, you’ll find pre-college options in areas like medicine, graphic design, engineering, journalism, marketing, game design, finance, architecture, ecology, history, and more. You might attend lectures, join college preparation workshops, work on group projects, and experience college life.
Most pre-college programs for high school students in Los Angeles, CA, are held during the summer break, so you can stay engaged without falling behind. If you’re still figuring out your college major or what you want to study, pre-college programs can give you a better idea of what different fields are really like, and some even offer college credit.
To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of 15 great pre-college programs for high school students in Los Angeles, CA.
1. Veritas AI
Subject Areas: Data Science, Engineering, Programming, AI, Machine Learning
Location: Virtual
Cost: The AI Scholars program costs $2,290, and the AI Fellowship costs $5,400. If you choose to do both programs, the combined cost is $6,900. Full need-based financial aid is available. You can apply here.
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by cohort
Dates: Multiple cohorts are offered throughout the year
Eligibility: AI Scholars: All high school students; The AI Fellowship is designed for students who have either prior experience with Python or have completed the AI Scholars program
Veritas AI offers programs for high school students interested in learning about artificial intelligence. Started by Harvard researchers, the programs are led by instructors from top universities like Stanford, MIT, Harvard, and Princeton. The AI Scholars program is a 10-session introductory course that covers the basics of AI, machine learning, and data science through hands-on projects that tackle real-world problems.
If you already have some programming experience, the AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase offers a more advanced option. You’ll work one-on-one with a university mentor, someone experienced in AI or machine learning, to develop a research project. A publication team will help you prepare your work for submission to high school research journals. You’ll also learn how AI is applied in areas like finance and environmental science. You can explore past student projects here.
2. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Subject Areas: Computer Science, Psychology, Environmental Science, Medicine, Economics, Chemistry, Biology, Data Science, Physics, International Relations, Business, Engineering
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starts at $2,990; Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary with each cohort; the upcoming summer cohort deadline is June 23
Dates: The program runs in four cohorts: spring (March – June), summer (June – August), fall (September – December), and winter (December – February)
Eligibility: High school students with an unweighted GPA of at least 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a 12-week opportunity for high school students to dive into a topic they’re passionate about by working on an independent research project with the help of a PhD mentor. You can choose from a broad range of subjects across STEM, humanities, and social sciences. The program includes research method workshops and provides support for writing a full-length research paper. If you successfully complete the program, you may also be eligible for UCSD credit.
In addition to working one-on-one with your mentor, you’ll get guidance from a writing coach to help you develop and refine your research topic. Some of the subjects you can explore include Math, Astrophysics, History, Computer Science, Gender Studies, Biology, Physics, Linguistics, Neuroscience, Classics, Medicine, Chemistry, Psychology, Philosophy, Data Science, Engineering, and Architecture. If you’re interested in something else, you can adjust your research focus to match your interests. You can find application details here.
3. USC Bovard Scholars
Subject Areas: SAT/ACT Preparation, College Preparation, Time Management
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free; Transportation to and from campus is covered for students traveling from outside Southern California
Application Deadline: January 17
Dates: July 15 – August 2
Eligibility: U.S. high school juniors who have a weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher, are enrolled in Algebra II or Trigonometry, and have demonstrated financial need
The Bovard Scholars Program at USC is a free, three-week program for high-achieving high school students where you’ll strengthen your critical thinking, research, SAT/ACT prep, career planning, and college application skills. With a low student-to-staff ratio of 3:1, you’ll get plenty of personalized support.
You’ll be matched with a coach who will continue to help you with college applications, test prep, and career planning even after the program ends. You’ll take part in group activities, goal-setting sessions, scholarship searches, and social events with industry professionals. You’ll get to take full-length practice exams under test-like conditions. You’ll also attend panel discussions with current college students and recent grads, and visit workplaces in L.A. related to your career interests. The program continues into your senior year, where you’ll keep working with your admissions coach for support and feedback as you go through the college application and decision-making process.
4. Cal State ECST LAunchPad Summer Program
Subject Areas: Engineering, Computer Science, Technology, Research
Location: California State University, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: May 10
Dates: July 7 – July 18
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors
LAunchPad is a two-week, in-person summer program at Cal State LA, sponsored by Boeing Global Engagement, where you’ll learn how engineers and computer scientists work. You’ll explore civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, computer science, materials science, and technology, and see what studying these fields means for careers after college. You’ll also meet ECST students and faculty and get to know the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology.
Each day has a different theme with morning presentations from faculty, followed by Q&A and hands-on or computer-based activities using everyday items. Industry professionals will share their work and answer your questions. You’ll work in small teams led by a learning facilitator who supports you and guides your group on the final Futurathon project.
5. Annenberg Youth Academy (AYA) for Media and Civic Engagement at USC
Subject Areas: Communication, Media, Journalism, College Preparation
Location: USC Annenberg, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: April 14
Dates: June 16 – July 3
Eligibility: High school students residing in neighborhoods around USC’s University Park and Health Sciences campuses
USC’s Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement is a three-week summer program that will introduce you to college-level media and journalism. It focuses on how media plays a role in shaping civic-minded leaders while helping you build skills in writing, public speaking, debate, interviewing, critical thinking, multimedia production, and ethnography.
Along with classes, the program offers support with college essays and shares info about USC Annenberg’s undergraduate programs and media-related careers. You’ll also connect with USC scholars who research topics like race, gender, and ethnicity in communication and journalism. You’ll also get to participate in sessions with scholar, adjunct lecturer, and media maker, Rogelio Lopez, and a journalism lecturer. Each year, 26 students from Los Angeles County are selected to participate in the program.
6. UCLA’s Mary S. Easton Center: Neuroscience High School Scholars Summer Program
Subject Areas: Neuroscience Research
Location: Virtual; In person at the University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: March 3
Dates: June 16 – July 24
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors; Ages 16-18; From underrepresented communities or interested in working with those communities
The UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program is for high school juniors and seniors interested in learning about neuroscience, especially topics related to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The program highlights health disparities and cultural awareness. It runs for six weeks in person during the summer, with a virtual option available.
You’ll take part in three structured days each week, with three hours of activities each day. Sessions include neuroscience seminars, brain cutting, neurology grand rounds, journal clubs, literature reviews, research exposure, and mentorship. You’ll also learn about brain function, neurodegenerative diseases, and research techniques, and get support to start an Alzheimer’s Awareness Club at your school. Some students may work on research projects that involve data analysis, cognitive assessments, and neuroscience laboratory skills.
7. University of Southern California’s Young Researchers Program
Subject Areas: STEM Fields, Research, College Preparation
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost/Stipend: Free; Free LA Metro passes will be provided, and U.S. students will receive a $300 stipend after completing the program
Application Deadline: March 31
Dates: June 16 – July 25; Student orientation takes place on June 13
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; Must live in Los Angeles and attend a public or charter school in the Los Angeles, Compton, Lynwood, or Inglewood Unified School Districts
USC’s Young Researchers Program (YRP) is a six-week summer program for rising high school seniors who want to dive into scientific research. It focuses on boosting interest in STEM fields among underrepresented students and encouraging them to pursue college and careers in science.
You’ll get hands-on experience doing university-level research and work with a graduate mentor on a project in their area of expertise. Your research will end with a public poster presentation where you’ll share what you’ve learned. Along the way, you’ll attend weekly workshops and seminars about scholarships, college applications, academic success, and STEM career options. The program also includes exciting field trips, like a visit to Catalina Island for Earth and environmental science activities where you’ll hike and snorkel, plus a tour of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
8. Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS) Summer Program
Subject Areas: Liberal Arts, Math, Data Analysis, Critical Inquiry
Location: Pomona College, Claremont, Los Angeles County, CA
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: February 24
Dates: June 22 – July 18
Eligibility: Current 9th-graders; Must be living in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, or Ventura Counties; Must be from first-generation college-bound or low-income families; Currently enrolled in Geometry or Integrated Math II.
The Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS) is one of the top pre-college programs for high school students in Los Angeles, CA. It is a four-week residential summer program where high school students take college-level courses, join cultural events and workshops, go on field trips, and work on projects. Each year, the program selects 30 rising sophomores from local high schools in May, with up to 90 students enrolled in total. Once accepted, you will stay involved with PAYS throughout the school year for the next three years.
During the summer, you will follow a liberal arts curriculum taught by Pomona College faculty. This includes Math and Critical Inquiry seminars, plus electives led by Pomona students or PAYS alumni on topics like Moments of Management or College Survival Guide. Rising seniors can also do research with Pomona faculty, and some of these projects have even been published. Past research topics have included Math, Sociology, Chemistry, and Theater. Juniors also get access to a 10-week SAT prep program.
9. USC Pre-College International Relations Summer Program
Subject Areas: International Relations, Politics, Human Rights, Conflict Resolution, Women’s Rights, Religion, Popular Culture
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $11,347 (Residential); $7,812 (Commuter)
Application Deadline: May 2 (Domestic students)
Dates: June 15 – July 12
Eligibility: Students who have finished at least 9th grade by the program’s start date
The USC Pre-College International Relations Summer Program will allow you to learn different ways to resolve conflicts and explore why wars happen. You’ll study the stages of conflict and apply what you learn to real regions affected by war and violence. The program also looks at economic reasons behind conflicts and the roles that individuals, popular culture, peace efforts, governments, and international groups play.
Throughout the course, you’ll take part in hands-on activities like role-playing, simulations, and negotiation exercises, including a Model UN simulation. You’ll also use case studies to better understand current and past conflicts. The program includes a visit to the Museum of Tolerance, where you’ll study genocide and develop a case study on how conflicts can be resolved. You’ll also explore how popular culture, like TV shows, movies, books, music, and art, can affect conflict and promote peace.
10. California State Summer School for Mathematics & Science (COSMOS)
Subject Areas: STEM Fields
Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $5,256 + a non-refundable $44 application fee; Financial aid is available
Application Deadline: February 7
Dates: July 6 – August 2 (UCLA)
Eligibility: California students entering grades 9-12; GPA of 3.5 or higher
COSMOS, one of the top pre-college programs for high school students in Los Angeles, CA, is a four-week residential summer program for high school students interested in STEM. The program goes beyond what’s taught in high school, using up-to-date labs and facilities to help you build skills and explore STEM fields. It’s offered at five different UC campuses, each with a curriculum based on faculty specialties.
You’ll work on hands-on, lab-based projects with faculty, researchers, and scientists in advanced subjects like Math, Materials Science, Physics, Astronomy, Computer Science, Robotics, Biomedical Sciences, Ecology, Engineering, Marine Science, and Game Theory. UCLA clusters cover a range of topics like math and tech in the digital age, animal evolution, robotics and aerospace engineering, molecular structure, and climate data analysis. Other options include sustainability and clean energy, AI in medicine and entertainment, and brain-inspired computing using neural networks.
11. UCLA’s Pre-College TeenArch Studio Summer Institute
Subject Areas: Architecture, Design, Drawing, Modeling, Origami
Location: Virtual; In-person at the University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $5,487 (Residential); $3,300 (Commuter); $2,800 (Virtual); scholarships are available
Application Deadline: June 6 (Residential); June 13 (Commuter/Virtual)
Dates: June 29 – July 19 (Residential); June 30 – July 18 (Commuter/Virtual)
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 who are at least 15 years old (or 17 for residential sessions) by the program start date and have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
The TeenArch Studio Summer Institute, offered by UCLA’s Department of Architecture and Urban Design, is a three-week program designed for high school students with an interest in architecture and design thinking. It introduces you to architecture and college life using a design studio approach, and you’ll earn three academic credits. Throughout the program, you’ll work on a project with guidance from UCLA Architecture students, alumni, and faculty.
You’ll practice drawing and modeling, do design exercises, and get both group and one-on-one instruction, along with critiques from guest designers and instructors. The program starts with studying origami to learn about form and volume, using feedback to improve your designs. You’ll also attend lectures from architects and designers to add context to your hands-on work. At the end, you’ll present your project to faculty from architecture schools in Los Angeles and get their feedback.
12. USC Pre-College Video Game Development Summer Program
Subject Areas: Game Development, Game Design, Content, Commercial Games
Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $11,347 (Residential); $7,812 (Commuter)
Application Deadline: May 2 (Domestic students)
Dates: June 15 – July 12
Eligibility: Students who’ve finished at least 9th grade by the program start date can apply, and international applicants can check the requirements here. You’ll need a laptop that works with 3D game engines.
The USC Pre-College Video Game Development Summer Program gives you the chance to learn the basics of creating and adding content using commercial video game engines. You’ll start by studying existing games, platforms, and genres, then move through important development skills to bring those ideas to life in game engines, eventually making your own playable games.
You’ll learn key game design principles and what makes both physical and digital games successful, while building prototypes in both forms. You’ll also get hands-on experience prototyping and building game parts in a commercial game engine, running playtests to gather useful feedback, pitching and presenting your projects, and working through team challenges during production.
13. Loyola Marymount University’s Pre-College Graphic Design for Publication Summer Program
Subject Areas: Graphic Design, Electronic Imaging, Digital & Print Publication, Content, Typography, Photography
Location: Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $6,125 + a $65 application fee
Application Deadline: April 15; Rolling admissions
Dates: June 22 – July 3
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors between 14 and 18 years old can apply, as long as they haven’t graduated before the program starts
Loyola Marymount University’s Pre-College Graphic Design for Publication Summer Program introduces high school students to the basics of visual design. You’ll explore how design is used across different types of publications, from political magazines to young adult books, focusing on how visuals and storytelling work together. The course covers what makes various print and digital formats unique, and how design helps shape each one into an effective form of communication.
You’ll build your conceptual and problem-solving skills and use them to design an e-magazine. You’ll learn the basics of messaging, combining words and images, image creation, typographic hierarchy, creating digital collages, and designing interactive PDFs. You’ll also go on field trips to learn how quality print materials are made, with past trips including visits to museums and historic LA printing companies. By the end of the program, you’ll understand key design concepts and leave with portfolio-ready work for college applications.
14. Otis College’s Pre-College Summer of Arts Program
Subject Areas: Animation, Drawing, Ceramics and Sculpture, Concept Art, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Screenprinting, Illustration, Painting, Photography and Film, Product and Toy Design, Storytelling and Animatics
Location: Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $4,390 – $7,190 (Full Program); $2,690 – $5,490 (Individual Class); You can find the full cost breakdown here
Application Deadline: June 23
Dates: July 7 – August 1
Eligibility: High school students and young creatives between the ages of 14.5 and 19
Summer of Art at Otis College of Art and Design is a hands-on pre-college program for high school students who want to explore art and design, build their portfolio, and experience college-level courses in a studio setting. Classes cover a wide range of areas, including Animation, Drawing, Ceramics and Sculpture, Concept Art, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Screenprinting, Illustration, Painting, Photography and Film, Product and Toy Design, Storytelling, and Animatics.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow as an artist, you’ll get to work with professional artists and designers, take part in demos, critiques, lectures, and complete hands-on projects. You’ll take Drawing Studios to build technical skills and hand-eye coordination, and choose a Specialization to explore a specific area in more depth, earning three college credits for the full-day program or one credit for individual classes. You’ll also take part in a final gallery exhibition to showcase your work. By building your portfolio and taking part in critiques, you’ll also get a better idea of what college admissions counselors are looking for.
15. UCLA Pre-Med Summer Scholar Program
Subject Areas: Medicine, Education, Career Preparation
Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: $1,450; Need-based scholarships are available
Application Deadline: March 15
Dates: June 23 – June 27; July 7 – July 11
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors in the U.S. who will be at least 16 years old by the start of the program
UCLA’s Pre-Med Summer Scholar Program is a week-long program for high school students interested in medicine, robotics, or surgery. You’ll get hands-on experience with suturing, advanced surgical tools, and virtual reality simulators. You’ll also observe surgeries in the operating room and work with surgeons, doctors, and medical residents.
The program includes guest speakers, workshops, and activities that introduce you to different medical careers and help you decide if medicine is the right path for you. Past sessions have covered robotic and laparoscopic surgery skills, pathology, imaging, and suturing. You’ll also take part in CPR and Stop the Bleed training (and earn certifications), join healthcare Q&A panels, and tour labs to learn about basic science research.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Image source – University of California, Los Angeles
