University of Texas at Austin

Why you'll love our UT Austin Summer Program

Simply put, Austin is awesome. It’s a city that is hip, unique and diverse. Austin offers great music and incredible food. Home to amazing BBQ and the legendary Longhorns – division one football and basketball – it’s a fast-paced, bustling community that you’ll be eager to become a part of.

With over 50,000 students, the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) is the perfect example of the motto: “Everything is bigger in Texas.” Ranked 16th among public universities in the United States, UT Austin is one of the top research institutions in the world. Famous alumni include First Lady Laura Bush, tv personality Jenna Bush Hager, actor Matthew McConaughey, and Southwest Airlines CEO Gary Kelly. This ‘Public Ivy,’ located in the heart of Austin, is the perfect setting for a pre-college program.

During our 51 years, we have provided incredible summer experiences for thousands of high school students. Summer Discovery students come from 44 states and over 70 countries. This summer, join us and create long-lasting friendships with students from all over the world.

At Summer Discovery UT Austin, we help you prepare for your transition from high school to college. Our pre-college program combines academics, athletics, and activities to give high school students a taste of college life

University of Texas

Pre-College Enrichment Programs for High School Students

A day in the life

Every day at UT Austin is unique, but here is a preview of what you can expect on campus

• 8.30am Wake up and head downstairs to the Café at Callaway where you can enjoy eggs, pastries, fruit, and more on your way to class.
• 9.30am Grab your laptop (and your notebook and pen) and don’t be late for class.
• 11.30am What’s one great thing about college? Long lunch breaks. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with friends, catch up on homework, or play Frisbee on Clark Field.
• 1.00pm Back to class, but not always in the classroom. Many classes take field trips around Austin to local businesses, museums, and sports stadiums.
• 3.00pm Your summer, your way. Sign up for the activities you want to do. Choose from sports, shopping, museums, and more.
• 6.00pm Dinner time. Enjoy the unlimited portions at the Café at Callaway. We really like the soft-serve ice cream machine.
• 8.00pm Outdoor movies. Laser tag. Karaoke Night. Ice skating. You will never forget the memories you make with your friends at UT Austin.
• 11.00pm Enjoy a pizza, watch a movie, or play a game of billiards in the lounge. After a full day, it’s nice to relax with friends.

Arrival and departure days for Austin

You must arrive and depart on the specified arrival and departure days only. If this is not possible, you must arrive the day after arrival day or depart the day before departure day. There are no rooms available at our residence hall outside of the dates of the program.

3-week program: Arrive June 23, depart July 13 

Booking Travel

Our travel agency, Musiker Travel, makes all flight arrangements for students from North America upon request. If you live outside of North America, you will receive instructions for making your own flight arrangements. Students who are being driven to campus will receive directions during the spring. 

Airport Transfers

Summer Discovery provides escorted transfers from/to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) for $75 each way. We will meet you at baggage claim or outside customs for international flights, and assist with your departure.