In the pre-college summer programs at Harvard, you take one non-credit course for two weeks. You attend lectures and seminars led by Harvard faculty or visiting instructors, complete readings and assignments, and work with small groups of peers. Daily sessions run about three hours with homework, focusing on active participation, note-taking, and keeping up with college-style material. You live in dorms, balance class with campus activities, and receive a written instructor evaluation plus a transcript notation (AR for requirements met, NM otherwise). No letter grades apply. In the Secondary School Program (SSP), you enroll in one or two 4-credit college courses (depending on session length and format).
You build analytical reading and critical discussion skills across subjects, dissecting primary sources, debating interpretations, or solving applied problems.
In STEM or quantitative courses, you use tools such as Python or R for data analysis, statistical software for modeling, or lab techniques for biology/chemistry experiments (depending on the specific course). Writing-heavy classes emphasize drafting, revising, and structuring arguments with evidence. You practice time management under intensity, independent study habits, and synthesizing material from lectures/readings into exams or projects. Concepts stay subject-specific: for example, in a computer science course, you might code algorithms and debug; in economics or government, you model markets or analyze policy frameworks using case studies.
Here’s a listicle of 15 Harvard-affiliated or Harvard Summer School options for high schoolers!
You can explore other Horizon Blogs here!
1. Harvard Pre-College Summer Program – Speech Writing and Literature
Location: Harvard University (on-campus, residential)
Cost: $6,100 + $75 application fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: Session I: June 21–July 2; Session II: July 5–17; Session III: July 19–31
Application Deadline: Typically late spring (varies by session; check official site)
Eligibility: High school students
This program covers Speech, Writing, and Literature and introduces you to multiple forms of communication, from creative expression to analytical writing and public speaking. You practice crafting essays, narratives, and journalistic pieces while learning how to structure arguments and develop a clear writing style. In literature-focused sessions, they analyze texts to understand themes, tone, and rhetorical techniques. Speech components focus on delivering presentations, improving clarity, and engaging different audiences. Journalism modules introduce reporting, interviewing, and fact-based storytelling.
2. Harvard Secondary School Program – 7-Week Residential Option- Human Evolution Course
Location: Harvard University (on-campus residential)
Cost: Included within SSP total cost $15,735 + $75 application
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: June 20 – August 8
Application Deadline: April 1 (late deadline; may close earlier if courses are full)
Eligibility: High school students admitted to the Secondary School Program (SSP)
This course leverages problem-solving skills to explore the central principles of molecular and cellular biology, with a focus on structure-function relationships, energy, metabolism, and genetics. The emphasis is on cells as systems for capturing and transforming energy, processing molecular information, relating form to function, and dividing. Required laboratory and discussion sections highlight experimental design and allow you to reinforce concepts covered in lecture and develop critical thinking.
3. CURE Summer Research Program (Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences)
Location: Longwood Medical Area (in-person, research labs and institutions)
Cost: Paid internship (stipend provided; exact amount not publicly specified)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: 7–11 weeks during summer (exact dates vary by placement)
Application Deadline: February 6
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors (must be at least 16 years old; must reside in or attend school in Massachusetts and be able to commute daily)
The CURE Summer Research Program is a full-time biomedical research internship in which high school students work on mentored cancer research projects in active laboratory settings. You participate in day-to-day research activities, which may include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and learning laboratory techniques commonly used in biomedical science. The program also includes structured training in scientific methods, research ethics, and professional development skills such as presenting findings and communicating scientific ideas. As a participant, you engage with researchers and peers through networking events and discussions, gaining exposure to potential career paths in science and medicine.
4. The Academies – On-Campus Summer Programs – Anatomy & Physiology
Location: Harvard University (on-campus; optional residential housing)
Cost: $1,500–$1,800 tuition; optional housing $1,200
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: Multiple weeks across June to August
Application Deadline: April 12
Eligibility: High school students
The Pre-Med: Human Anatomy and Physiology Academy provides an opportunity for you to gain knowledge about the various systems of the body. This program explores major human body systems, including cardiology, pulmonology, neurology, and endocrinology, to build a comprehensive understanding of how the body functions. You learn how different diagnostic tools—such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and PET scans—are used to identify medical conditions. The curriculum also introduces blood work analysis and how key biomarkers help detect diseases. Through case-based learning, students interpret medical data and connect symptoms to underlying conditions.
5. The Academies – Virtual Programs
Location: Online (live sessions via Zoom)
Cost: $529
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: Multiple sessions (weekend: Saturday–Sunday, 12–4 PM ET; weeklong: Monday–Friday, 12–4 PM ET)
Application Deadline: April 12
Eligibility: High school students
The Academies Virtual Programs are short-format online courses where you study subjects such as business, coding, government, and pre-med through live, instructor-led sessions. Depending on the format, you complete either 8-hour weekend programs or 20-hour weeklong programs that include lectures, interactive exercises, and guided discussions. Coursework focuses on applying concepts through structured activities, such as analyzing case studies, building basic coding projects, or exploring healthcare-related scenarios. Each program concludes with a final project presentation that reflects the material covered during the sessions.
6. Pre-Med: Biology & Chemistry (On-Campus)
Location: Harvard University (on-campus)
Cost: $1,800 (tuition; financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: June 8–12
Application Deadline: Typically April 2026 (varies; early deadlines offer discounts)
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
The Pre-Med: Biology & Chemistry Academy is a one-week program where high school students study foundational biomedical concepts relevant to pre-med pathways. The curriculum covers topics such as genetics, immunology, CRISPR gene editing, and organic chemistry, including molecular structures and naming conventions. You analyze diseases like Down syndrome and sickle cell anemia, applying biological and chemical concepts to understand their causes and mechanisms. Coursework includes discussions on ethical considerations in emerging technologies such as gene editing. You also complete a final project focused on a specific disease or genetic disorder, integrating research and presentation skills. The program emphasizes building subject-specific knowledge through lectures, discussions, and applied case-based learning.
7. Finance: Introduction to Finance (On-Campus)
Location: Harvard University (on-campus; optional residential housing)
Cost: $1,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June 29 – July 3; July 13 – 17
Application Deadline: April 12
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
The Introduction to Finance Academy is a one-week program where you study core financial concepts and market structures through lectures and applied exercises. The curriculum covers topics such as financial markets, interest rates, time value of money, and the role of financial institutions. You learn how to analyze financial statements, including income statements and balance sheets, to assess company performance. The program also introduces asset classes such as stocks and bonds, along with basic portfolio management concepts. Coursework includes interpreting market trends and understanding risk management in investment decisions.
8. Harvard Chan C-CHANGE Youth Summit on Climate Science, Medicine, & Health
Location: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (in-person)
Cost: $5,390 + airfare
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: July 11 – July 18
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students
The Youth Summit on Climate Science, Medicine, and Health is an interdisciplinary program hosted by Harvard Chan C-CHANGE in collaboration with Putney Student Travel. You explore how climate change intersects with public health, medicine, policy, and economics through lectures, discussions, and expert-led sessions. The program includes exposure to perspectives from researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and climate-focused innovators. You select an action focus area and examine challenges related to climate and health systems.
9. Coding: Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (On-Campus)
Location: Harvard University (on-campus)
Cost/Stipend: $1,800 (tuition; financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: June 15 – 19; July 6 – 10; July 20 – 24; August 4 – 8
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12; basic knowledge of Python required)
The Introduction to Artificial Intelligence Academy is a one-week program where you learn foundational concepts in AI, machine learning, and neural networks. The curriculum begins with a Python refresher and progresses to building basic models such as linear regression and classifiers using tools like NumPy and PyTorch. You explore how neural networks function and apply these concepts through guided exercises and mini-projects. The program also introduces ethical considerations in AI and examines real-world applications across different industries.
10. Summer Crimson Internship Program
Location: The Harvard Crimson, Cambridge (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (must attend high school in the Greater Boston area)
The Summer Crimson Internship Program offers high school students the opportunity to work with The Harvard Crimson during its summer publishing cycle. You gain experience in producing news content, understanding story development, and working under publication timelines. The internship also includes exposure to the business and operational aspects of running a student media organization. The experience is structured as an in-person commitment, focusing on practical journalism skills and media production.
11. Harvard Debate Council – Communication Skills: Foundational Skills for Public Speaking
Location: Online and Harvard University (in-person option available)
Cost/Stipend: $1,599 (online); $3,049 (commuter); $4,149 (residential)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Online (Session One): June 28 – July 10; In-Person (Session Two): July 12 – July 24
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students (primarily grades 9–10)
The Communication Skills program focuses on developing foundational public speaking and argumentation abilities through structured, practice-based learning. You learn how to organize and deliver speeches, construct evidence-based arguments, and adapt communication styles for different audiences. The curriculum includes techniques for managing speaking anxiety, researching current topics, and engaging in debate formats. You practice persuasive communication through presentations, discussions, and feedback sessions in both online and in-person settings.
12. Finance: Introductory Economics (On-Campus)
Location: Harvard University (on-campus)
Cost/Stipend: $1,800 (tuition; financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed)
Dates: July 6 – 10; July 27 – 31
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students (grades 9–12)
The Introductory Economics Academy is a one-week program where high school students study foundational concepts in microeconomics and macroeconomics through structured lessons and applied activities. The curriculum covers topics such as supply and demand, market equilibrium, elasticity, and different market structures, including competition and monopolies. You examine the role of fiscal and monetary policy in shaping economic outcomes and analyze how governments influence markets. The program includes working with real-world data to interpret economic trends and evaluate policy decisions.
13. Harvard Debate Council – Public Forum Debate Workshop
Location: Harvard University (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: $3,049 (commuter); $4,149 (residential)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small cohort (approx. 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio; selective)
Dates: Session One: June 28 – July 10; Session Two: July 12 – July 24
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students (all experience levels)
The Public Forum Debate Workshop, run by the Harvard Debate Council, is a structured program focused on developing debate skills across different experience levels. You are placed in small lab groups and receive individualized instruction on argument construction, research methods, and debate strategies. The curriculum includes topic analysis, case building, and rhetorical techniques used in competitive public forum debate. You engage in approximately 14 debate rounds, including practice debates within and across groups.
14. Harvard Secondary School Program (SSP) – 4-Week Residential – Leadership and Impact: Applying Design Thinking to Real-World Challenges
Location: Harvard University (on-campus residential)
Cost: $9,100 + $75 application fee (includes tuition, housing, and meals; financial aid available for eligible students)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective (exact rate not publicly disclosed; small class sizes)
Dates: July 12 – August 8
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students eligible for the Secondary School Program
In this course, you identify core values, explore how to align them with daily actions, and apply the framework of design thinking to lead to meaningful change. You develop the skills to navigate ambiguity and complexity in problem-solving, learning how to create impact even in uncertain environments. Through hands-on projects, students master strategies to tackle challenges in a rapidly evolving world, including those driven by emerging technologies like generative artificial intelligence (AI). This course challenges you to move beyond the traditional school progression mindset and make an immediate impact on your communities by solving real-world problems that violate your core values.
15. Harvard Secondary School Program (SSP) – 4-Week Residential – User Experience Engineering
Location: Harvard University (on-campus residential)
Cost/Stipend: $9,100 + $75 application fee (includes tuition, housing, and meals; financial aid available for eligible students)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 56
Dates: July 12 – August 8
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students eligible for the Secondary School Program
This SSP program introduces you to the fundamentals of user-centered design by focusing on how real users think, behave, and interact with products. You begin by identifying target users and translating their needs into clear personas that reflect motivations, constraints, and goals. Building on this, you define the problems users are trying to solve and map them into structured user stories that guide design decisions. The program then walks you through designing interaction flows and creating low-fidelity mockups to quickly test ideas before investing in full builds. You’ll use tools like Figma to develop and iterate on prototypes while learning how to evaluate different design approaches through user testing. The experience is centered around a term project where you apply each step of the UX design process from research to prototyping.
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: Horizon