Program Pillars
University-curated academics
- Courses and Academies range from 2 to 6 weeks
- All courses include both a certificate of completion as well as a letter of recognition designed to bolster students' college applications
- Over 300 unique courses across a multitude of fields of study
- Each course is designed to put the student at the center of the learning experience while being immersive and hands-on
- Faculty members are hand-selected by the university for their expertise and passion for their field
- Campuses offer unique courses based on their expertise, from Sports Management and Entertainment to Medicine, Law, and Fashion Design – there is sure to be a curriculum to suit every student
- 84% of Summer Discovery alumni felt more prepared for college after completing their Summer Discovery program
- Students completing our high school programs leave with college-ready confidence, ready for what’s next on their journey
Institute for the Gifted
- The Summer Discovery Institute for the Gifted program is designed specifically for advanced and accelerated learners and features proprietary academic curriculum for gifted students
- Programs foster critical and creative thinking skills through hands-on multidisciplinary curriculum
- Challenges students to push the limits of their knowledge and abilities
- Encourages students to embrace their individuality and thrive in an inclusive community of like-minded peers
- Students develop and refine interpersonal soft skills and build confidence
- Programming develops the whole person – academics combined with social, cultural and recreational activities
Unforgettable experiences on and off campus
- Jam-packed on-campus programs like Silent Discos, Karaoke, Movie Nights, Pool Parties, BBQs and more
- Students have an all-access pass to university facilities like the gym, dining halls, recreation centers, and more.
- Off-campus trips vary based on location but often include trips to the beach, lake, city landmarks, theme parks, sporting events, local hot spots and more.
Following thought-provoking and hands-on academic sessions, students enjoy time working on their interpersonal skills.
15Prestigious university campus programs
24/7Summer Discovery campus staff & wellness coordinators
High SchoolAcademic excellence, leadership & career exploration
At Summer Discovery, high school students cultivate both academic and interpersonal skills. Courses and academies, uniquely designed and led by experienced instructors and industry leaders, offer a broad spectrum of learning opportunities. Students leave with tangible outcomes: 88% of Summer Discovery alumni leverage their Summer Discovery experience to strengthen their college portfolio.
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Expand your creativity. Find your passion.
Explore college-level academics and immersive experiences designed to build independence, foster friendships, and help students discover their interests.
See it for yourself
Watch to take a closer look at our High School programs—from college-level academics and hands-on learning to personal growth and life on campus.
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Our admissions process
- Apply online.
- Make sure to determine which campus and curriculum option are right for you ahead of time.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis – the earlier you apply, the more choices you will have. Most decisions are made within 5 business days.
- Once accepted, it's time to officially enroll and place your deposit to hold your spot.
- Course registration typically opens in November, so make sure you are ready to go!
- Final payment is due in April (or later if late enrollment), then get ready to countdown the days until Summer Discovery!
Find The Right Fit
Residential- Live like a college student in a secure residence hall
- Eat in university dining halls each day
- Daily programs, trips, and events every afternoon and evening
- Enjoy a bit of free time to explore the area local to campus
Commuter- Get a taste of learning in a university setting
- Enjoy afternoon activities
- Eat lunch in the dining halls
Safety & Security
Age appropriate supervision, prioritized wellbeing.
- Staff must clear thorough criminal background checks and complete specialized training for working with minors.
- Students may move about specific campus areas in groups of three or more at designated times.
- While students have a sense of freedom, staff constantly keep in close communication with students to ensure they are where they need to be.
- Residential Counselors monitor the dining hall.
- Wellness Coordinator on campus and is available 24 hours/day. No student is allowed off campus without supervisio
Student to Staff Ratios
MIDDLE SCHOOL8:1
HIGH SCHOOL10:1
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Summer Discovery's staff and instructors? 
Our administrative staff on each campus has an average of 14 years experience working at Summer Discovery. They include: Director, Associate Director, Academic Coordinator, Programs and Activities Coordinator, Health and Wellness Coordinator, Athletic Coordinator, Head Resident Counselor. Most are teachers, guidance counselors, or school administrators. Our Resident Counselors are teachers, graduate students, and college seniors that are at least 20 years old. Resident Counselors are great people to hang out with, talk to, learn from, help you with your classes, and get you involved in activities. Your Resident Counselor lives on your floor. Instructors are university instructors and distinguished visiting instructors. Enrichment courses are also taught by graduate students, area professionals, and top secondary school teachers.
Can I still have fun while taking classes?
Yes! You may choose from dozens of enrichment and/or college credit classes that are challenging, but not overwhelming. Most classes are small and emphasize interactive, innovative learning. The teachers are enthusiastic and supportive, which makes learning exciting and fun.
How are roommates selected?
You will submit a personal profile in the spring. This profile helps us learn about your likes and dislikes, personality traits, interests, and sleeping habits. As most students come alone, we use this information to match you with a roommate(s) with similar interests and age. Attending with a friend? All roommate requests must be noted on your personal profile. Only mutual requests will be honored.
Two Campuses, One Summer
Expand your future and experience two top-tier universities in one summer. Try our UCLA and University of Michigan combo, or contact us to build your own.
High School Campus Offerings
Choose from a variety of top-tier universities. A new campus to discover, a new city to explore, a new college-ready version of yourself to emerge.
Yale University
University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School
UCLA
Dartmouth
UCLA Anderson School of Management
University of Michigan
Other Offerings
We offer additional experiential and pre-college programs for middle school students and gifted & talented students in grades 1-12.
Middle School
