If you’re a high school student in California looking to go beyond your regular math classes, a summer program can be a great way to dive into more advanced topics. From number theory to data modeling, these programs give you the chance to explore math in new and interesting ways—whether you like solving abstract problems or applying math to real-world situations.
Since California is home to so many universities and math-focused organizations, you’ll find plenty of local options to choose from. Staying in-state also helps keep things more affordable by cutting down on travel and housing costs.
Whether you’re interested in mathematical research, coding with Python for simulations, or prepping for math competitions, this list focuses on 15 summer math programs for high school students in California that offer real learning outcomes, from theory to practice.
1. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Virtual
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective, ~15%
Dates: June–August (12 weeks); also offered in Fall, Winter, and Spring
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort; typically 1–2 months before the start date
Eligibility: High school students with strong academic records, 3.3+ GPA recommended
This program pairs students with PhD mentors to pursue independent research in various areas, including abstract algebra, number theory, combinatorics, or applied mathematical modeling. Over 12 weeks, you’ll learn how to formulate a research question, conduct a literature review, and can apply tools such as LaTeX, Python, or MATLAB, depending on your topic. The structure includes weekly 1:1 mentorship, independent reading, and a final research paper with optional support for publication or competitions. You can also choose research topics from subjects such as psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. You can find more details about the application here.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; cohort size varies
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts throughout the year, including spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Eligibility: High school students; Fellowship requires Python experience or prior completion of AI Scholars
Veritas AI offers two structured tracks: AI Scholars and AI Fellowship, which integrate programming, statistics, and machine learning. In AI Scholars, you’ll complete project-based work using Python, Pandas, and scikit-learn across various domains, including healthcare, finance, and environmental modeling. The Fellowship track allows for deeper engagement through one-on-one mentorship and independent research. You’ll gain exposure to techniques in supervised learning, data preprocessing, and model evaluation, while also learning about ethical AI and reproducibility. The program is particularly strong for students interested in mathematical modeling through real-world data, making it one of the most technically rich summer math programs for high school students, even in its virtual format.
3. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
Location: Online and Residential, Stanford, CA
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Cost: Varies based on sessions
Dates:
- Online Session 1: June 16 – July 4
- Residential Session: June 22 – July 18
- Online Session 2: July 7 – July 25
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors from grades 10–11
SUMaC offers an intensive, proof-based curriculum in areas like abstract algebra, number theory, and algebraic topology. You will work through formal definitions, theorems, and problem sets, supported by faculty lectures and collaborative discussions. Both online and residential formats emphasize rigorous logic, writing mathematical arguments, and exploring modern research directions in pure math. You’ll also examine historical context and applications across disciplines, with optional group projects that apply theory to real-world systems. As one of the most academically rigorous summer math programs for high school students in California, SUMaC is designed for students already fluent in mathematical reasoning and eager to build depth.
4. Summer Online Math Challenges Program
Location: Online
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; placement test required
Cost: $1,695 (early) or $1,895 (regular); placement test fee extra
Dates: July 13 – August 7
Application Deadline: May 15 for regular enrollment; placement test deadline varies
Eligibility: Rising 4th–12th graders; placement test and strong math background required
This program provides rigorous training in advanced problem-solving, with a focus on algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. You’ll choose a level from Math Challenges A to 6 based on a placement test and meet for 2.5-hour live Zoom classes over 20 evenings. Each course includes 50 hours of instruction, along with daily homework assignments. You’ll work in small seminar-style groups and be guided by instructors with backgrounds in Olympiad training and competitive math. The curriculum draws from materials once used for MOSP and Phillips Exeter Academy, emphasizing discovery-based learning and collaborative reasoning.
5. Summer Online Advanced Studies Program
Location: Online
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; placement test required
Cost: $1,995 (early) or $2,195 (regular); placement test fee extra
Dates: June 24 – August 7
Application Deadline: April 15 (early), April 30 (regular); placement deadlines vary
Eligibility: Rising 7th–12th graders with advanced problem-solving experience
Designed for highly advanced math students, this program offers 50 hours of intensive training through Olympiad-level courses (XC9, MO1, MO2). You will concentrate on key topics in mathematical enrichment, such as algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. These seminar-style classes will be led by experienced coaches from the PEARL team and MOSP. Homework is expected three times weekly, and the curriculum emphasizes rigorous thinking, discovery-based learning, and collaborative solution presentation. Admission is contingent on a placement test, and students are grouped based on prior experience and test performance.
6. UCLA Summer Sessions Summer Math Courses
Location: Online and In-Person, UCLA Campus, Los Angeles, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Cost: ~$300–$400/unit + campus and registration fees
Dates: June 23 – August 1 (Session A); other sessions available
Application Deadline: Rolling; early registration recommended
Eligibility: High school students who meet course prerequisites
UCLA offers a suite of rigorous summer math courses designed for high-achieving high school students ready to take on college-level material. You can earn college credit in courses like Calculus, Linear Algebra, Discrete Math, and Differential Equations, with both online and in-person options. Placement is determined by AP scores or UCLA’s diagnostic test. You’ll learn alongside UCLA undergraduates, experience the quarter system’s pace, and explore advanced topics that align with STEM majors.
7. Russian School of Mathematics (RSM) Summer Math Program
Location: Multiple California locations (incl. San Francisco, San Jose, Cupertino, San Diego)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; selective competition prep track
Cost: Varies by course and location; typically $300–$600+ per course
Dates: Varies by location; generally June–August
Application Deadline: Rolling; early registration recommended
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–12 (placement based on level assessment)
RSM’s summer math program offers rigorous training in Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Statistics, with specialized tracks for SAT/ACT/AP prep and math competitions. You will be placed in tiered levels (Accelerated, Advanced, Honors) based on skill and background. Each course emphasizes abstract reasoning, mental flexibility, and collaborative problem-solving, following a curriculum inspired by elite Eastern European math schools. If you’re looking to push beyond school math or train for competitions like AMC or AIME, this program delivers a structured and challenging academic setting.
8. Stanford Advanced Mathematics Courses
Location: Virtual
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; varies by course
Cost: $1,700 + $35
Dates: June 17 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: High school students who meet prerequisites like AP Calculus or higher
ULO offers nine rigorous online math courses, modeled after Stanford University’s curriculum, including Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Real and Complex Analysis, and Number Theory. You’ll learn through formal lectures, advanced textbooks, and weekly assignments, building mastery in both theory and problem-solving. Each course has strict prerequisites, typically AP Calculus or prior college-level coursework, ensuring that students are ready for high-level, abstract thinking. If you’re aiming for college-level rigor in math, ULO provides an in-depth academic experience with a clear progression from foundational to proof-based advanced math.
9. AwesomeMath Summer Program
Location: Virtual
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; varies by session
Cost: Varies based on course
Program Dates: Multiple 3-week sessions: June–August
Application Deadline: Rolling until sessions fill
Eligibility: Middle and high school students with strong math backgrounds
AwesomeMath is a rigorous online summer program designed to enhance your problem-solving abilities across algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory. You’ll attend live, instructor-led lectures and daily problem-solving sessions for three weeks per course, with structured homework and assessments to track progress. If you are preparing for the AMC, AIME, or USAMO, the program focuses on cultivating a deep understanding of concepts through guided practice, feedback, and interaction with peers. You’ll also gain from office hours and optional social activities to connect with a global group of mathematically talented peers.
10. University of California COSMOS
Location: Residential at UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego, or UC Santa Cruz
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; ~160–200 students per campus
Cost: $5,300; financial aid available for eligible CA students
Program Dates: July 6 – August 1 (UCI, UCSD) and July 6 – August 2 (UCD, UCLA, UCSC)
Application Deadline: February 7
Eligibility: California residents currently in grades 8–12 with a strong STEM academic record
COSMOS (California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science) is a four-week residential program that immerses you in an intensive STEM learning environment alongside top high school students from across California. You’ll study one specialized cluster at a UC campus, combining lectures, labs, and hands-on projects led by university faculty. The program highlights teamwork-based learning, offers access to advanced research facilities, and provides exposure to practical applications in areas such as mathematics, computer science, engineering, and environmental science. You’ll gain valuable experience in scientific communication and build lasting connections with peers and mentors in the STEM field.
11. Summer Academy in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Location: California State University, Fresno, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open to qualified applicants; space is limited
Cost: $285
Program Dates: June 16 – 20
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students entering grades 4–12
This one-week program offers an interactive STEM learning experience for high-achieving students interested in math, science, and engineering. High school students will explore real-world applications of wind energy, physics, and mathematics through debate-style discussions, hands-on labs, and dynamic software tools. You’ll work on geometry and physics-based problems, build models, and conduct experiments in a college setting, all guided by Fresno State faculty and STEM educators. At the end of the week, you’ll earn a Certificate of Accomplishment from CSU Fresno while gaining skills in mathematical reasoning, design, and collaborative inquiry.
12. Mathematics Intensive Summer Session (MISS)
Location: California State University, Fullerton, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Cost: Free; includes meals, materials, and a graphing calculator
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1
Application Deadline: June 6
Eligibility: Female high school students (typically rising sophomores–seniors); must be college-bound
MISS is a four-week commuter program designed to strengthen students’ foundational math skills ahead of their next academic year. You will spend six hours each day engaging in problem-solving, reviewing concepts, and developing skills. Topics covered include algebra up to pre-calculus, depending on your upcoming coursework. The program is especially supportive of female students and those who will be the first in their family to attend college. Instruction is highly interactive and aligned with California’s college-prep standards. Successful first-time participants receive a free graphing calculator, and all students receive textbooks and meals at no cost.
13. Mathnasium Summer Program – Mathnasium of Glendale
Location: Glendale, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment
Cost: Varies by number of sessions and duration
Program Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Eligibility: K–12 students; diagnostic test placement required
The Mathnasium Summer Program offers flexible, individualized math instruction tailored to students’ current level and academic goals. High school students can focus on algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, or SAT/ACT math prep through personalized learning plans developed after a diagnostic assessment. You’ll build problem-solving fluency, number sense, and conceptual understanding through repeated practice and guided instruction. The program emphasizes foundational mastery and readiness for next-year coursework. Sessions are in-person and typically run for 60 minutes, with multiple visit plans available throughout the summer.
14. UC Berkeley Summer Math Courses
Location: Berkeley, CA; in-person and online options available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment
Cost: ~$550 per unit + campus fees
Program Dates: Session C: June 17 – August 9 | Session D: July 1 – August 9
Application Deadline: May – June, depending on session
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 11–12; must meet prerequisites and obtain instructor approval for some courses
UC Berkeley offers a range of lower-division math courses during the summer for advanced high school students seeking college-level experience. Options include Math 1A/B (Calculus I/II), Math 10A/B (Calculus for Life Sciences), and Math 54 (Linear Algebra and Differential Equations). You will participate in intensive lectures and problem sets aimed at developing proficiency in proof-based reasoning, integration methods, multivariable systems, and matrix operations. This can be a strong fit if you’re looking to experience the UC semester system while sharpening your technical and abstract thinking in math.
15. Research Mentorship Program – Math Track
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; varies by track
Cost: $4,700 (commuter) | $6,599 (residential)
Program Dates: June 17 – August 2
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Students in grades 10–11 (exceptional 9th graders considered); 3.80+ weighted GPA
This competitive program provides high school students with a rigorous introduction to mathematical research, guided by UC Santa Barbara faculty. In the math track, you’ll work one-on-one or in small groups with a mentor on original research that often intersects with computer science, physics, or data science. Over six weeks, you’ll learn to conduct literature reviews, develop hypotheses, analyze data, and present your findings in a professional setting. The experience emphasizes academic writing, critical thinking, and mathematical modeling.
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 – UC Berkeley