Ready for a first-rate summer experience at America’s first university? Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, Penn offers an authentic Ivy League experience in the heart of Philadelphia for academically gifted high school students. Penn flourishes in and is enriched by a vibrant urban ecosystem steeped in history and brimming with arts, culture, and innovation. Explore America’s history in Philly’s urban setting and feel the pulse of arts, culture, and innovation.
Engage with leading faculty and build intellectual connections while taking challenging courses selected from a variety of disciplines. Penn is widely known for its expertise in medicine, business, and law, and students can immerse themselves in science, research, social justice, and mathematics classes.
Get the Penn academic experience through one of our commuter programs. Commuter students join the program Monday-Friday for classes only. Our Resident Counselors help to ensure students' acclimation to campus and a positive experience.
Learn MoreAfter 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.
2 week and 3 week students participate in many but not all activities listed. All on-campus activities are subject to change based on current safety protocols.
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 $75 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.