If you are a high school student serious about law, pre-law summer programs are the best option to dive deep into the legal world. These summer programs go beyond the basics, immersing you in courtroom simulations, legal research, and policy debates. You'll sharpen advanced skills like legal analysis and persuasive argument while working alongside peers who are just as passionate about the law. These programs are not just about introducing the fundamentals of law but about engaging students in real-world legal scenarios, networking with professionals, and participating in courtroom simulations or advocacy projects.
These programs give you a head start on understanding the complexities of the legal system and building a standout college application. Whether it's criminal justice or civil rights, you'll gain hands-on experience that sets the foundation for law school and beyond.
Here is a list of 16 prestigious pre-law summer programs for high school students!
1. Horizon Academic Research Program
Subject Areas: Political Theory and Philosophy, Neuroscience and Law, Psychology and Law, International Relations.
Location: Virtual
Application Deadline: Varies according to cohort. November 10, 2024, for the Winter cohort, and February 9, 2025 for the Spring 2025 cohort
Program Dates:
- Winter seminar: December 2, 2024 onwards
- Spring seminar: March 3, 2025 onwards
- Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply 4 weeks in advance
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a few tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students interested in pursuing advanced legal studies. Whether you're drawn to the intersection of law and political theory, psychology, or international relations, Horizon provides a rare opportunity to engage in qualitative and quantitative research in these fields. You’ll be paired with a mentor—either a professor or Ph.D. scholar from a top university—who will guide you in producing a 20-page university-level research paper, perfect for submitting to prestigious journals as a high school student. With interdisciplinary courses such as Political Theory and Philosophy for a strong foundation in legal thought or Neuroscience and Law, this program is tailored for students looking to deepen their legal expertise. You’ll receive feedback to refine your research and strengthen your college applications, alongside a recommendation letter from your mentor to boost your academic profile. Apply here!
Subject Areas: Legal Systems and Frameworks, Public Policy and Government, Economic Theories and Regulation, International Relations and Cooperation, and more.
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT (Residential)
Cost: $6,500 program fee + $90 application fee (Financial Aid available)
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
Program Dates:
- Session I: June 22, 2025 - July 4, 2025
- Session II: July 6, 2025 - July 18, 2025
- Session III: July 20, 2025 - Aug 1, 2025
Eligibility: Students have to be current sophomores or juniors between the ages of 16-18 years old by July 20, 2025, to be eligible to apply. They should also be a first-time participant.
The Politics, Law, & Economics session at Yale Young Global Scholars offers students a deep dive into the intricate connections between legal systems, governmental structures, and economic theories. This program attracts students from over 150 countries to participate in a two-week session at Yale each summer. With a focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary analysis, participants will explore topics like human rights, market regulation, and conflict resolution, honing skills in legal theory, economic analysis, and policy evaluation. In this program, students not only study the foundations of law and political economy but also apply these principles to real-world scenarios, fostering an understanding of how legal frameworks impact global issues. Seminars and lectures challenge students to dissect complex social systems using tools like game theory, economic modeling, and legal frameworks. This program cultivates analytical abilities essential for tackling complex social systems and preparing students for rigorous academic research and global legal challenges.
Subject Areas: Legal Theory, Mock Trial Simulations, Courtroom Procedures and Ethics, Case Preparation, Evidence Analysis, and more.
Location: Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
Cost: $5,145 (includes housing, meals, and transportation). Financial aid is available.
Application Deadline: 2024 applications are now closed.
Program Dates:
- June 24, 2024 – July 3, 2024
- July 6, 2024 – July 15, 2024
- July 17, 2024 – July 26, 2024
Eligibility: High school students between the grades of 9-12 can apply.
This 10-day immersive program, hosted by Stanford Law School, gives high school students a comprehensive introduction to the practice of law. Participants will dive into legal theory, rhetoric, and ethics while developing critical skills such as crafting opening and closing arguments, preparing cases, and cross-examining witnesses. Through mock trial simulations endorsed by the American Mock Trial Association, students gain hands-on experience in courtroom procedures, evidence management, and oral advocacy. Guided by Stanford Law professors, students will also sharpen their leadership and goal-setting abilities, building a solid foundation for their law journey.
Subject Areas: Criminal Law, Legal Reasoning, Trial Advocacy, Conflict Resolution and Mediation, Human Rights, Forensic Psychology, and more.
Location: Columbia University, New York, NY OR Virtual
Cost: Varies according to housing and units. Financial aid is not available.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in March.
Program Dates:
- Summer A: June 24, 2024 - July 12, 2024
- Summer B: July 16, 2024 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility: Domestic and international students enrolled in high school between grades 9-12 can apply.
Columbia University’s Pre-College Program offers high school students an engaging exploration of law through its Law and Conflict Resolution specialization. Participants will engage in online and on-campus courses led by expert faculty, dedicating about four hours daily to classes, seminars, and workshops. Course offerings include Conflict Resolution: Negotiation, Persuasion, and Mediation, Constitutional Law, and Human Rights in the 21st Century, among others. Students will develop essential legal skills such as negotiation, advocacy, critical thinking, and legal reasoning through courses like Legal Reasoning: Thinking Like a Lawyer and Trial Advocacy. Participants will gain expertise in analyzing complex legal issues, understanding courtroom procedures, and applying conflict resolution strategies. Upon completion, participants will receive a Certificate of Participation and a written evaluation, enhancing their credentials for future academic endeavors in law.
Subject Areas: American Law, Constitutional Law, Civil Rights, Legal History, Critical Race Theory, Intellectual Property, and more.
Location: Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
Cost: $5,550 + $75 application fee. Housing is included. Limited need-based aid is available for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Application Deadline: February 12, 2025
Program Dates:
- Session 1: June 22 – July 3, 2025
- Session 2: July 6 – 18, 2025
- Session 3: July 20 – August 1, 2025
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors (graduating in 2026/27) who are at least 16 years old by June 21, 2025, and will not turn 19 before July 31, 2025.
Harvard’s Pre-College Summer School Program is an academically rigorous, two-week summer experience designed to give exceptional high school students a preview of college life and academic study. In the Legal Studies course, students will live on Harvard’s campus, engage in college-level coursework, and participate in co-curricular activities that foster healthy debate and intellectual growth. The program emphasizes clear and diplomatic communication on complex legal topics, preparing students for future academic pursuits in law.
Participants can choose from courses such as Introduction to American Law, Constitutional Law, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and more specialized topics like Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property. Upon successful completion, students will earn a Harvard transcript and receive a written evaluation from their instructor.
Subject Areas: Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, Jury System, Supreme Court Cases and Controversies, Laws in Practice, and more.
Location: Georgetown University, Washington, DC
Cost: Residential- $3,389 | Commuter- $2,625
Application Deadline: May 15, 2024. 2025 dates TBA.
Program Dates:
- Session I: June 9 - June 15, 2024
- Session II: July 7 - July 13, 2024
- Session III: July 28 - August 3, 2024
Eligibility: Domestic and International high school students with at least a 2.0 GPA are eligible to apply.
At Georgetown University’s Law Academy, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your passion for the law while learning from nationally recognized legal experts, including Georgetown faculty and guest speakers. This immersive program introduces students to the fundamentals of jurisprudence, offering a deep dive into how laws are made, interpreted, and applied in real-world scenarios. The curriculum combines lectures, hands-on activities, guest speakers, group discussions, and off-site visits to legal institutions.
Throughout the program, you’ll debate pressing legal issues, engage in discussions about evolving legal standards, and participate in mock trials, allowing you to practice law in a simulated courtroom environment. By the end of the program, you’ll not only gain invaluable legal knowledge but also get a taste of the Georgetown undergraduate experience.
Subject Areas: Civil Rights Law, Constitutional Law, Political Advocacy, Civil Liberties, Legal Advocacy, and more.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Cost: $2,700 (including lodging, food, experiential learning activities, and social events). Financial aid and scholarships are available.
Application Deadline: Early decision - March 3, 2024 | Regular decision - April 22, 2024 | Rolling applications after April 22, 2024
Program Dates: July 21, 2024 - July 27, 2024
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors between the ages of 15 and 18, including graduating seniors, can apply.
The American Civil Liberties Union's (ACLU) National Advocacy Institute offers an in-depth look into the intersection of law, civil rights, and social justice for high school students passionate about legal advocacy. This immersive, week-long program allows participants to gain hands-on experience in legal strategy, community organizing, and policy analysis through classroom sessions, interactive seminars, and site visits.
As a participant, you will work closely with ACLU lawyers, policy analysts, and activists, learning the essentials of legal advocacy while exploring real-world civil liberties issues. Through the program, you’ll participate in discussions and campaigns that defend and promote civil rights, developing skills essential to a career in law. The Day of Action is a highlight of the program, where students advocate on Capitol Hill, where in the past, critical legal issues like immigration law, facial recognition regulations, and COVID-19 policy have been tackled.
Subject Areas: Legal Research and Writing, Corporate Law, and more.
Location: New York City
Cost: No cost. Interns will be paid $15-21 per hour.
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January.
Program Dates: June 12 - August 14, 2024 (Mandatory attendance required on April 17, April 24 and May 1, 2024).
Eligibility: NYC public high school students are eligible to apply.
The Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship Program (TMSLIP) offers diverse public high school students in New York City the chance to gain valuable experience in the legal field. This intensive summer program connects students with legal employers, including top law firms, corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, offering practical exposure to legal work.
As an intern, you will participate in hands-on training, attend panel discussions with legal professionals, and engage in networking events designed to prepare you for a future legal career. Typical internship responsibilities include assisting paralegals, organizing legal documents, filing paperwork, and maintaining records. Beyond job duties, interns gain deeper insights into the legal profession through development programs provided by host employers.
Subject Areas: Criminal Justice, Legal Simulations, Mock Trials, and more.
Location: Multiple law schools, NYC
Cost: Free. Students will receive a monetary stipend upon successful completion of the program.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all the slots are full. Thirty students are accepted for each of the seven law school sites.
Program Dates: July - August 2024. 2025 dates TBA.
Eligibility: Rising ninth-grade students from Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island are eligible.
The Summer Law Institute (SLI) is a five-week program designed for rising ninth-grade students, providing an immersive introduction to the legal field. Hosted by seven prestigious law schools in New York City—including Brooklyn Law School, Cardozo School of Law, Columbia Law School, CUNY School of Law, Fordham School of Law, NYU School of Law, and St. John’s School of Law—this program exposes students to positive role models while offering practical experiences through simulations and field trips. Participants will study criminal justice topics taught by law students, interact with practicing lawyers, and engage in a mock trial competition. The knowledge and skills developed during the SLI will enhance students' academic performance as they transition to high school and beyond while also making them eligible for the four-year College Bound program, which provides ongoing support and guidance to help students succeed in their higher education pursuits.
Subject Areas: Criminal Justice System, Legal Research, Federal Legal Procedures, and more.
Location: Brooklyn and Central Islip, NYC
Cost: Free. Unpaid internship.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis till April 5, 2024. TBD for 2025.
Program Dates: June 3, 2024 — August 9, 2024. TBD for 2025.
Eligibility: Rising seniors from accredited high schools are eligible to apply.
The United States Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New York offers several unpaid internships for motivated students interested in law and public service. Available placements include Library Legal Information, Automated Litigation Support, Library Legal Information and Resource Center, and Paralegal Legal Studies. These internships provide valuable insights into the criminal justice system and community crime prevention, allowing students to gain practical experience in legal research, case management, and resource organization. Participants will develop essential skills such as legal research and analysis, effective communication, and an understanding of federal legal processes, all of which are crucial for future careers in law.
Subject Areas: Criminal Law, Trial Simulations, Legal Practice, and more.
Location: Yale University, Georgetown University, and University of Michigan.
Cost:
- Yale University: $4,095
- Georgetown University: $3,895
- University of Michigan: $3,795
Application Deadline: Depends on the program
Program Dates:
- Yale University: June 24 - July 2, 2024 | July 6 - July 14, 2024 | July 17 - July 25, 2024
- Georgetown University: June 17 - June 25, 2024 | June 29 - July 7, 2024 | July 12 - July 20, 2024 | July 24 - August 1, 2024
- University of Michigan: July 13 - July 21, 2024 | July 25 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in grades 9-12 can apply.
The NSLC's Law & Advocacy Program provides a nine-day immersive experience for students interested in pursuing a career in law. Participants engage in a realistic simulation of a criminal case held in an actual courtroom, working collaboratively with peers to hone their legal skills. The program features lectures from forensic and legal experts, including professionals from the Department of Justice and esteemed law firms, along with insights from prominent guest speakers, including past Supreme Court justices. Key topics covered include homicide laws, evidentiary procedures, witness preparation, and trial techniques. Throughout the program, students develop essential skills such as trial preparation and strategy, legal research and writing, public speaking and advocacy, critical thinking and analysis, team collaboration, and ethical decision-making. Additionally, participants have the option to earn college credit by enrolling in an extra course for an additional fee.
Subject Areas: Legal Research and Writing, Legal Work Experience, Courtroom Procedures, and more.
Location: Atlanta, GA
Cost: No cost; Students will be paid a stipend of $2,000 ($333 per week).
Application Deadline: 2025 applications begin in March 2025.
Program Dates: 2025 dates TBA
Eligibility: Current seniors (class of 2025) and juniors (class of 2026) studying in Atlanta high schools are eligible.
The Atlanta Bar Association’s Summer Law Internship Program (SLIP) is a paid, highly competitive six-week internship for high school students passionate about law. With only 35 spots, this rigorous program offers hands-on legal work experience, mentorship, and deeper insights into the legal system. Participants gain valuable hands-on experience through legal work, attend weekly All Intern Meetings (AIMs), and complete regular progress tests to ensure they stay engaged. The program also emphasizes mentorship and aims to increase diversity in the legal profession, providing students with critical insights into law and professional development opportunities.
Subject Areas: Law and Justice, Critical Black Studies, Anti-Oppressive Systems, and Power Dynamics.
Location: Cornell University and University of Maryland.
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: December 3, 2024
Program Dates: June 22, 2025 – July 26, 2025
Eligibility: Domestic and international rising high school juniors and seniors who are between the ages of 15 and 18 at the start of the program can apply.
TASS is a fully-funded six-week summer program for high school sophomores and juniors interested in law and the humanities. With an emphasis on critical thinking and democratic community building, TASS provides an immersive academic experience free from financial barriers. Students engage in rigorous academic work, participating in a three-hour college-level class each weekday and exploring social structures shaped by power and privilege. With two areas of study: Critical Black Studies (CBS) and Anti-Oppressive Studies (AOS)—TASS helps students refine their analytical and writing skills while participating in democratic decision-making and community-building activities, preparing them for leadership roles in academic and legal fields.
Subject Areas: Substantive Law, Introduction to Careers in Law, Litigation Trials, Legal Case Studies, and more.
Location: New York University, NY
Cost: $2,579 (Tuition), $618 (Housing and Dining), $50 (Non-refundable application fee)
Application Deadline: May 17, 2024 (Residential) | June 7, 2024 (Commuter)
Program Dates: Several sessions from June to August.
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in law can apply.
The Pre-Law Bootcamp offered by NYU High School Academy is a comprehensive program for students interested in pursuing a career in law. Whether you aspire to be an attorney, judge, legislator, or legal activist, this program provides an essential introduction to the legal profession. Through a mix of lectures, panel discussions, and hands-on activities, you’ll explore the steps required to become an attorney and gain insight into various legal careers. You’ll examine real-life legal cases, delve into the fundamentals of substantive law, and participate in mock litigation trials. Additionally, you will learn about different legal institutions, including courthouses, public interest organizations, and government agencies, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the US legal system. At the end of this program, you will have cultivated skills in legal analysis and reasoning, courtroom procedures, and persuasive communication.
Subject Areas: Legal Research and Writing, Courtroom Procedures and Ethics, and more.
Location: Various locations across the country.
Cost: Fully sponsored. A stipend will be provided at the end of the internship.
Application Deadline: January 6, 2025
Program Dates: May - June 2025 (6 weeks)
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to apply. Students from underrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.
The Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP) offers a prestigious full-time summer internship for diverse high school students traditionally underrepresented in the legal profession, including racial and ethnic minorities, students with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and women. This six-week minimum program provides interns with opportunities to conduct legal research and writing for state or federal judges in locations such as California, Illinois, Texas, Phoenix, Washington, D.C., Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, and Seattle.
Participants will develop essential legal skills, including research, writing, and courtroom procedures while expanding their professional network through program orientations, welcome receptions, and supplemental activities hosted by local law firms and bar associations. By committing to at least six weeks, students enhance their practical experience and become eligible for the program award, preparing them for future success in the legal field.
Subject Areas: Legal Systems, Constitutional Law, Criminal and Civil Law, and more.
Location: Penn Carey School of Law, University of Pennsylvania
Stipend: A stipend will be provided upon completion of the internship.
Application Deadline: February 14, 2024
Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - August 2, 2024
Eligibility: Rising 10th and 11th-grade students attending high school in Philadelphia are eligible to apply.
The University of Pennsylvania’s Provost Summer Mentorship Program offers a four-week immersive experience for first-generation and underrepresented high school students, providing insights into professional schools, including Penn Carey Law School. Participants explore law school dynamics, the responsibilities of lawyers, and the role of law in society. Throughout the program, students will engage in lectures, seminars, and hands-on activities that help them explore the legal field, develop critical thinking skills, and understand the broader societal implications of the law. Alongside this, students gain support in test preparation, financial literacy, life skills development, and the college application process, equipping them with valuable tools and confidence for their academic and legal journeys.
Here’s a bonus program for those interested in exploring research in law!
Subject Areas: Law, International Relations, Political Science, and more.
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,990 (12 weeks), $5,900 (16-20 weeks), $8,900 (6-12 months). Financial aid available
Application Deadline: November 24, 2024 for the Winter cohort
Program Dates: Summer cohort runs from June to August, Fall cohort from September to December, Winter cohort from December to February, Spring from March to June
Eligibility:
- You must be currently enrolled in high school
- Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note: accepted students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
- No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a selective independent research program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. With one-on-one mentorship from a Ph.D. scholar at a top institution, students can specialize in advanced legal topics and fields such as constitutional law, international law, or criminal justice. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking, legal research, and analytical writing skills as they work on independent, publishable research projects. This experience not only enhances college applications but also provides a strong foundation for future academic and professional pursuits in law. You can find the application form here.
David Wilkinson is a freelance writer for Horizon and currently resides in the United States.