Ahhh, summer. It's a special time, when different rules apply than the rest of the year. You have a say in what you want to do and the options are plentiful. You can get a job, intern, travel, study, or do nothing at all. It's your choice, although we don't recommend the latter option. We encourage you to think of summer as the time to discover and explore your own interests.

As you start to explore different summer programs, remember that you are choosing how you will spend your summer. The more time you spend upfront on research, the happier you're likely to be in the long run. For example—you can inquire about the summer study abroad programs here.

Practical Constraints
Programs can vary widely in cost. Keep in mind that the quoted price is rarely all-inclusive. If cost is an issue, ask if any scholarships are available to students with financial need. Admissions requirements can also vary substantially amongst programs; some programs are quite competitive while others accept students on a first come-first served basis. And, don't forget to consider how a program fits into the rest of your summer; keep in mind other commitments such as family trips and college visits.

Personal Needs
Make sure any program you're considering has a mission that matches your own. Ask the program staff and alumni what makes the program special. Also, check out each program's main activities. If you want an experiential program, find out how much time is spent outside of the classroom.

Academic Study Associates (ASA): College Campus Programs for High School Students

ASA offers academic programs for high school students. ASA provides students with the opportunity to take challenging classes, improve your SAT scores with The Princeton Review, explore exceptional locations and cultures, immerse yourself in a new language, and make new friends! Programs are offered at the UMass Amherst, UC Berkeley, Princeton, Columbia, Tufts, Oxford and Cambridge Universities, as well as locations in Spain, France, Italy and Costa Rica.

  Learn more about ASA's Summer Programs
  Contact ASA Summer Programs

The American University of Paris: Summer 2008 in Paris

AUP now offers one seven-week summer term from early June to mid-July, when visiting students from around the world can earn transferable academic credit in a full range of liberal arts disciplines, including: Art, Business, Communications, Economics, English, Film Studies, French Studies, Music Appreciation, Philosophy, Psychology, Science, and more. Along with these courses are two 3-week French Immersion Sessions in French language and culture and open to adult visitors.

  Summer 2008 at The American University of Paris

Yeshiva University: Summer@YU

Yeshiva University offers a unique summer college experience for high school students encompassing the learning and independence of college life along with the excitement of NYC attractions. Jumpstart your college career, participate in enriching classes, and earn university credits in a Jewish environment. Network with renowned rabbis, professors, business professionals, and students. Live like a local, with the passion of a tourist.

  Learn more about Summer@YU

Northwestern University College Preparation Program

The College Preparation Program at Northwestern University is designed for high school students like you who want new academic challenges and the experience of real college life. This summer program for high school students offers three, six, and nine-week options as part of the Northwestern's Summer Session, and you'll earn college credit for the courses you take.

  Learn more about Northwestern and the College Preparation Program

Summer Discovery

Summer Discovery offers 3 to 6-week pre-college enrichment programs for high school students at 10 college campuses in the US and abroad. Summer Discovery, in partnership with The Princeton Review, also offers the College Discovery Experience; a 2-week college preparation program which combines SAT prep, admission guidance and numerous college visits at Northeastern University, American University, and UCLA.

  Learn more about Summer Discovery
  Contact Summer Discovery

4 Star Summer Camps

4 Star Summer Camps offers high school students rewarding and fun programs in Academics, Tennis, Golf and Total Training on the historic campus of the University of Virginia. Invest in your future—take the SAT prep course offered by Princeton Review or numerous other enrichment courses, get the College Tennis Advantage in our innovative camp taught exclusively by college coaches, improve your golf skills in the Golf Camp or take advantage of the comprehensive and unique Total Training Camp to help you maximize your athletic potential. Come join us and have lots of fun, meet new friends, experience the excellent quality of our instruction and generally have a "summer that will last a lifetime."

  Learn more about 4 Star Summer Camps

  What Do You Want to Do this Summer?
  Why Should You Consider a Summer Program?
  How to Describe Your Summer Experience on a College Application
  Evaluating Summer Programs
  Search for a Summer Internship
  Buy the Book: The 500 Best Ways to Spend the Summer
  5 Reasons to Prepare for the SAT or ACT this Summer
  Study Abroad | Why Study Abroad?