If you’re a high school student interested in learning how to code, but unsure where to start, a short, focused summer program can help you build confidence and technical skills without the pressure of a full academic course. Coding Programs designed for students can introduce you to core programming concepts, help you create real projects, and connect you with peers and mentors who support your growth.
What is the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program (SIP)?
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program (SIP) is a virtual, two-week pre-college program designed for high school girls and non-binary students. Unlike residential camps that focus solely on syntax, SIP blends introductory computer science education with a heavy emphasis on community, “sisterhood,” and direct mentorship from industry partners.
Why should I consider applying?
If you are considering various summer opportunities, consider this program for its accessibility and focus on closing the gender gap in technology. While many pre-college programs are expensive and academic-theory heavy, SIP is entirely free, project-based, and designed to introduce you to the tech industry’s culture and career pathways.
Some fast facts:
Location: 100% Virtual via live classrooms
Duration: 2 Weeks
Dates: The dates for 2026 have not been announced yet, so keep an eye on the website for details. For 2025, the dates were:
- Round 1: July 7 – July 18
- Round 2: July 28 – August 8
Eligibility: 9th-11th grade girls and non-binary high school students, with or without prior coding experience
Application Deadline: For 2025, early acceptance closed on February 26, while the general deadline was April 11. Keep an eye on the website for the 2026 deadlines.
Tuition: Free!
What do you learn in the Girls Who Code SIP?
The Summer Immersion Program curriculum focuses on Game Design, distinguishing it from generalist coding bootcamps. You will first learn syntax and then use it right away to create creative, interactive projects. A central part of the curriculum is its tech stack: p5.js. This JavaScript library is popular for creative coding and visual arts. It is beginner-friendly yet capable of illustrating fundamental computer science concepts such as variables, loops, conditionals, and functions through visual examples.
Over the course of the two weeks, here’s what you can expect:
- Thorough understanding of the iterative design process: You will learn to treat code as a medium for design, moving through prototyping, testing, and refining your game mechanics.
- A crash course on UX/UI basics: The curriculum introduces User Experience (UX) design, helping you consider how users interact with your software.
- Live instruction: Classes meet live virtually for 2–3 hours daily, followed by independent project work. This synchronous format ensures you can debug code in real-time with teaching teams.
- Partner engagement: A unique component of SIP is the integration of “Partner Events.” You will attend virtual workshops hosted by major tech companies (e.g., MetLife, Bank of America, Accenture) where professionals discuss their roles in cybersecurity, data science, and engineering.
How does the admissions process work?
The program is open to high school students who identify as girls or non-binary. Unlike many competitive summer research programs, Girls Who Code does not require prior coding experience. The program specifically aims to include beginners to intermediate coders who might otherwise feel excluded from the tech field. Applicants only need to submit a simple application form by the deadline; there are no requirements for GPA, transcripts, or letters of recommendation.
It is a moderately selective program. While the barrier to entry is lower due to fewer prerequisites, spots are limited by the capacity of the teaching teams and funding partners.
How much does the Summer Immersion Program cost?
The Girls Who Code SIP is completely free to attend. There is no tuition, application fee, or materials cost. In addition, GWC offers a $300 Student Grant to eligible U.S.-based students. This grant is intended to offset costs for students who might otherwise need to work a summer job. Additionally, if you lack the necessary hardware, the program can provide loaner laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots.
What do alumni of the GWC SIP say?
Former participants often describe the “sisterhood” environment as the program’s key highlight. After two weeks, you’ll have built a portfolio of projects, including a final game you designed and coded. You’ll also become familiar with JavaScript syntax (through p5.js) and grasp the basics of object-oriented programming.
Some highlights from student feedback:
- Confidence building: The low-stakes, high-support environment allows for failure and iteration without academic penalty.
- Networking: The “Partner Events” are excellent opportunities to network. Alumni often reference these connections when applying for internships later in college.
- Community: The virtual format includes community-building activities that many students find surprisingly engaging in an online setting.
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths:
- It is completely free to attend: High-quality instruction and mentorship at no cost is rare in the pre-college landscape.
- Provides solid industry access: Direct exposure to companies like Disney, Raytheon, and Synchrony provides a professional context that school coursework lacks.
- It’s very beginner-friendly: It is one of the few prestigious programs that does not penalize you for having zero prior experience.
Considerations:
- It’s a short course: Two weeks is a very short period. While you will learn the basics of Game Design, you will not leave with the depth of knowledge you might gain from a 6-8 week intensive research institute.
- There is no in-person component: If you are looking for a residential “college life” experience (dorm living, campus tours), this program does not offer that.
- It has a niche focus: If you are looking for more than just Game Design or creative coding, the curriculum might feel restrictive compared to broader Python or Java courses.
Verdict: Is Girls Who Code’s Summer Immersion Program right for you?
The Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program is best suited for students who are curious beginners or community-oriented learners. If you are looking for a supportive entry point into computer science without the pressure of grades or tuition, this program is an excellent fit. It is particularly valuable if you want to understand what a tech career actually looks like beyond just writing code. However, if you are already an advanced programmer looking for rigorous algorithmic challenges or AP CS prep, you might find the pace too introductory.
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: Girls Who Code Logo