If you’re ready to make your summer more than just another break, an overnight camp might be exactly what you need. These programs let you step out of your comfort zone, live away from home, and dive into something new – whether that’s science, art, leadership, or outdoor adventure.
At overnight camps, you’ll stay on campus or in shared cabins with other students, join workshops, and spend your days learning, creating, and exploring together. You’ll build independence, make friends, and get a glimpse of what college or professional life might feel like, all in a fun, supportive environment.
Some camps focus on academics, while others are all about creativity or the outdoors but all of them give you the chance to try something different and grow in the process.
To help you find your next summer adventure, we’ve put together a list of 14 amazing overnight camps for high school students!
14 Overnight Summer Camps for High School Students
1. Harvard University’s Secondary School Program (SSP)
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Cost: $4,180–$15,735 + $75 application fee
Program Dates:7-Week: June 20–August 8; 4-Week: July 12–August 8,
Application Deadline: Early Application & Priority Financial Aid: January 7; Regular Application & Financial Aid: February 11; Late Application: March 15
Eligibility: High school students; ages 16–18 by program start
Harvard’s Secondary School Program lets you earn college credit while studying alongside undergraduate students. You can choose a 4-week residential experience or a 7-week format that’s residential, online, or commuter-based. The program gives you access to Harvard’s full course catalog, covering subjects across STEM, humanities, and social sciences. You’ll attend lectures, complete college-level assignments, and join discussions with peers from around the world. Outside of class, you can take part in workshops, student events, and college preparation sessions that help you adapt to university life.
2. Stanford University’s Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, California
Cost: Online: $3,580; Residential: $8,575
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Residential: 40 participants; Online: 64 participants
Program Dates: Online Session One: June 16 – July 4; Online Session Two: July 7 – 25; Residential Session One: June 22 – July 18
Application Deadline: Varies as per the program
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors; strong interest in advanced mathematics
SUMaC immerses you in advanced mathematics through lectures, guided research, and collaborative problem-solving. You will explore topics beyond the high school curriculum, including abstract algebra, number theory, and algebraic topology, while developing logical reasoning and proof-writing skills. Residential participants live on Stanford’s campus, balancing intensive coursework with field trips, structured social activities, and final research projects. Online participants engage in live discussions, problem-solving sessions, and virtual guest lectures.
3. Columbia University: Summer Programs for High School Students
Location: New York
Cost: Commuter: $3,650; Residential; $5,820
Program Dates: May- August; session lengths of one week, two weeks, three weeks, or six weeks
Application Deadline: Varies by program
Eligibility: Students entering grades 9–12 or freshman year of college; ages 16+ for NYC Residential Summer programs; international students must demonstrate English proficiency equivalent to TOEFL 90 or IELTS 6.5
Columbia University Summer Immersion Programs let you experience college-level learning in business, STEM, or humanities through on-campus or online options. You’ll take part in interactive classes, group projects, and academic enrichment sessions led by Columbia faculty. The program offers the chance to live on campus or study remotely while connecting with peers from around the world.
4. Barnard College of Columbia University MasterScholar Summer Research Program
Location: Barnard College & Columbia University, New York City
Cost: $12,500
Program Dates: July 20 – August 9
Application Deadline: Varies as per the program
Eligibility: High school students of all genders with strong academic motivation
Barnard College’s MasterScholar Summer Research Program lets you design and carry out your own interdisciplinary research project across STEM, arts, or humanities. You’ll work closely with Barnard and Columbia professors, receive mentorship from teaching assistants, and take part in small seminar-style classes and workshops that strengthen your research, writing, and analysis skills. Living on campus gives you access to both Barnard and Columbia’s academic spaces and New York City’s cultural sites, like museums and libraries.
5. Princeton Social Science Academy at The Lawrenceville School
Location: The Lawrenceville School, Lawrenceville, New Jersey
Cost: $7,500
Dates: July – August
Application Deadline: Varies as per the program
Eligibility: Academically motivated high school students interested in social sciences
The Princeton Social Science Academy is a two-week residential program that introduces you to research and inquiry across sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. You’ll learn from Princeton University faculty through seminars, fieldwork, and collaborative projects that help you develop research and analytical skills. The program also includes workshops on writing and communication, preparing you to craft your own research paper. Outside the classroom, you’ll join campus tours, sports, and peer-led activities while living at The Lawrenceville School, which provides access to libraries, galleries, and recreation spaces.
6. Georgetown University Summer Pre-College Program – 1-Week Medical Academy
Location: Washington, D.C.
Cost: $3,905 (Residential); $3,025 (Commuter)
Program Dates: June 9–July 30 (multiple 1-week sessions)
Application Deadline: Early Bird: January 31, Final: April 15
Eligibility: Current 8th–12th graders; minimum 2.0 GPA; students must be at least 15 years old for the Medical Academy
Georgetown’s one-week Medical Academy introduces you to the fundamentals of medicine through hands-on labs, interactive lectures, and guided discussions. You’ll study anatomy, physiology, radiology, surgery, and biomedical ethics while working alongside Georgetown faculty, medical students, and physicians. The program includes practical sessions such as suturing, orthopedic casting, small mammal dissection, and patient simulation exercises. Through these experiences, you gain insight into medical specialties, clinical procedures, and the realities of medical training while building essential problem-solving and professional skills.
7. UCSB MasterScholar Summer Research Program
Location: University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California
Cost: $11,250
Acceptance rate/cohort size: 20 students per research field
Program Dates: July 6 – July 26
Application Deadline: Varies as per the program
Eligibility: High school students interested in sustainability, engineering, and environmental science
The UCSB MasterScholar Summer Research Program is a three-week residential experience that lets you explore research in sustainability, engineering, and environmental science. You’ll work with UCSB faculty through lectures, workshops, and mentorship seminars while developing a capstone project. The program emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and research presentation skills. You’ll stay in UCSB’s Santa Catalina Residence Hall, enjoy campus dining, and take part in recreational and cultural activities around Santa Barbara.
8. Andover Summer at Phillips Academy
Location: Phillips Academy, Andover, Massachusetts
Cost: $3000-$11,500(Financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Nearly 1,000 students per summer
Program Dates: June 30 – August 2
Application Deadline: Applications open in December
Eligibility: Rising 7th–12th graders (ages 12–17); English proficiency required for non-native speakers
Andover Summer at Phillips Academy is a five-week residential program that lets you experience academic life on campus while exploring a range of subjects. You can join courses through the Lower School Institute (for rising 7th and 8th graders) or the Upper School (for rising 9th to 12th graders), with additional English Language Learner options available. Class sizes are small, giving you direct support from instructors, tutoring, and evening study time. You’ll live on campus, take part in athletics and weekend activities, and connect with peers from around the world while strengthening your academic and social skills.
9. Syracuse University Pre-College Programs
Location: Syracuse, New York; Los Angeles, California; New York City, New York; Online
Cost: $1,995 – $5,743. Scholarships are available
Program Dates: Various sessions from July 6 to August 2
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, or recent graduates, ages 15 and older; On-location programs require the ability to commute
Syracuse University Summer College lets you experience college life while earning real academic credit and exploring future majors. You can choose from on-campus residential sessions, commuter options, or online courses offered across East and West Coast locations. You’ll take part in classes taught by Syracuse faculty, participate in workshops and social activities, and earn a Certificate of Completion along with a university transcript.
10. Outset: STEM/Medicine Programs at Leading Universities
Location: UNC-Chapel Hill (NC), UCLA (CA), Columbia (NY), U Michigan (MI), Vanderbilt (TN), UT-Austin (TX), and Florida State University (FL)
Cost: $2,950 (financial aid available)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; less than 50% of applicants accepted in previous years
Program Dates: June–August ( 6-day sessions)
Deadline: Rolling admissions (early application recommended; many campuses fill by March)
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 9–12; minimum GPA 3.0 (preferred ≥3.5)
Outset offers a one-week residential program for high school students interested in STEM and medicine. You’ll stay in campus dorms, attend classroom sessions, and take part in hands-on medical training, lectures, and hospital tours. Each track, such as primary care, pediatrics, or surgery, is led by instructors and healthcare professionals who guide you through clinical skills and medical pathways. You’ll also learn how to prepare for pre-med studies and gain insight into healthcare careers. Beyond academics, the program includes evening activities and networking opportunities that help you connect with peers and mentors while experiencing college life.
11. The School of The New York Times: Summer Academy
Location: New York City, New York
Cost: $6,195 (Day Students); $7,695 (Residential Students)
Program Dates: Term 1: June 7–19, Term 2: June 21–July 3, Term 3: July 5–17, Term 4: July 19–31
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Eligibility: Rising high school students (grades 10–12) and graduating seniors; ages 15–18 by program start
The Summer Academy at The School of The New York Times introduces students to journalism, media, and storytelling through hands-on learning in reporting, editing, media law, and digital content creation. You’ll learn from working journalists and editors while exploring real-world topics in culture, business, sports, and science. Residential students stay in New York City and take part in workshops, group projects, and site visits that build on classroom lessons. The program focuses on strengthening your writing, communication, and media literacy skills while giving you practical experience in how the media industry works.
12. North Carolina Math Camp
Location: Saint Mary’s School, North Carolina
Cost: $6,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective; limited spots available
Program Dates: Session 1: July 5 – July 18; Session 2: July 19 – August 2
Application Deadline: Original: April 30; Extended: June 10 / May 25 (for international students)
Eligibility: High school students aged 15–19 with a strong math background
North Carolina Math Camp is a two-week residential program for high school students interested in advanced mathematics. Led by Duke University faculty, it combines lectures, guest talks, and project-based teamwork. You study number theory, game theory, differential equations, and general relativity. Alongside these sessions, you complete a math research paper that develops analytical and independent research skills. The camp takes place at Saint Mary’s School, where you live and study in a collaborative environment.
13. VISIONS Service Adventures High School Service Summer Programs
Location: Bozeman, MT; Dominican Republic; Sacred Valley, Peru; Denali, AK
Cost: $3,295–$6,495
Program Dates: June–August; 1–3 week sessions
Application Deadline: Varies as per the program
Eligibility: Students entering grades 9–12; ages 13–19
VISIONS Service Adventures lets you take part in community-based summer programs that mix service, cultural exchange, and real-world learning. You’ll work with local communities on projects such as building schools, setting up water systems, or supporting environmental and youth initiatives. Each day blends teamwork and problem-solving with cultural immersion through local traditions and community life. Programs are hosted in places like Montana’s Blackfeet Reservation, the Dominican Republic, and Peru’s Sacred Valley.
14. Specialty Summer Programs at The Peabody Preparatory
Location: Downtown Campus, Baltimore, Maryland
Cost: Scholarships available
Program Dates: June 16 – August 8 (individual programs vary)
Application Deadline: Priority submission for scholarships: June 23
Eligibility: Students ages 6–adult, grades vary by program; skill levels vary per instrument
Peabody Preparatory offers you a range of summer programs in music, dance, and performing arts that help you strengthen both technique and performance experience. You can choose from options like the Baltimore BeatLab for music production or focused tracks in piano, strings, guitar, and dance. Each session lasts one or more weeks and includes workshops, rehearsals, and ensemble work led by Peabody’s faculty. You’ll develop practical skills through hands-on learning, gain stage experience, and connect with other artists.
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 – Stanford University