University of Pennsylvania

After class, take a walk down Locust Walk in the heart of campus, visit Ben on the Bench, or admire the campus architecture and tree-lined walkways. Penn is known for its extraordinary athletic and recreational facilities. Organize pick-up games, work out at the Pottruck Health and Fitness Center or play tennis with a friend at the Hamlin Tennis Center. 

Located in the University City neighborhood, Penn is near a multitude of shopping and dining options. Immerse yourself in Philadelphia’s history and culture with supervised visits to art museums, parks, historic sites, and more! Test your skills at detecting counterfeit bills at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia or relax with friends overlooking the Delaware River. “The City of Brotherly Love” has something for everyone! 

Students in our programs live in one of the upperclassman residence halls, which are only a short walk from the 1920 Dining Commons, academic buildings, and the Pottruck Health and Fitness Center.

6 week program open to students completing grades 10 & 11.
2 and 3 week programs open to students completing grades 9, 10 & 11.

Living: You will be part of a dynamic community of students and staff, living together in one residence hall. Students live in a single or double room in an apartment style suite. Students share an in-room bathroom with just their suitemates. Every air-conditioned room includes a bed, study desk, closet, and free Wi-Fi. Lounges, game rooms, laundry facilities, and the Summer Discovery Office are all in our residence hall. We are located only short walk from 1920 Dining Commons and the Pottruck Health and Fitness Center.

Dining: Unique to Summer Discovery is our all-inclusive meal plan. Enjoy two meals daily (breakfast and dinner), while on campus at 1920 Dining Commons. Choose from daily options at the salad bar, deli counter, pizza oven, burger bar, dessert bar, and more. Are you a vegetarian? Do you have food allergies? Special diets are not a problem.

Residential tuition includes: Term fees, academic programs, laundry, use of facilities, housing, 2 meals daily while on campus (2 on Sunday, none on Saturday), recreation pass (for students ages 15 and above), activities and trips.

Not included: Application fee, airfare, airport transfers (available for $85 each way), class materials, course supplements, meals eaten off campus, medical expenses, linens, blanket and pillow, souvenirs, and personal spending money.

Commuter tuition includes: Commuter students join the program Monday-Friday for classes only. They do not attend evening or weekend activities and excursions and no overnight stays are permitted. 

Important Dates

All Application Opens – December 1

Priority deadline for all programs– March 1

International Student Deadline for all programs – April 1

Domestic Student Deadline for all programs – May 1

All application materials, including recommendations, should be submitted by above stated deadlines—no exceptions.

Updated Withdrawal policy as of 11/18/21

Penn Summer: Academies, Prep Program, and Pre-College Program

A financial deposit of no less than $2,000 is required to officially reserve a student's spot within the program. The balance of tuition, refundable fees, and optional fees are due by May 13, 2022. Withdrawal between May 14 and June 1 results in a $1,000 cancellation fee. Withdrawal between June 1 and June 30 results in a $2,000 cancellation fee. There are no refunds for cancellation once an accepted student's program officially starts, for any reason. There is no adjustment in tuition for late arrivals or early departures. All withdrawals must be in writing and emailed to hsprogs@sas.upenn.edu and penn@summerdiscovery.com