Harvard Pre-College Program

The Harvard Pre-College Program is a two-week summer program run by Harvard Summer School for rising high school juniors and seniors who want a taste of college academics and campus life. Students live on Harvard's campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and take one non-credit course, so there are no letter grades. Each session offers close to 30 courses spanning writing, psychology and medicine, law and government, business, ethics, and STEAM subjects. Classes average about 15 students and meet for three hours a day, with two to four hours of homework expected each day. Outside class, students join social and creative activities plus college readiness workshops on admissions essays, financial aid, and choosing a college. For summer 2027, three sessions are offered: June 21 to July 2, July 12 to 23, and July 26 to August 6. A 2027 session costs $6,250, covering tuition, housing, meals, activities, and insurance. Limited need-based scholarships are available. Admission is selective, based on academic readiness, maturity, and interest in a rigorous pre-college experience.

Open to rising juniors and seniors. For summer 2027, applicants must graduate high school and enter college in 2028 or 2029, be at least 16 by June 13, 2027, and not turn 19 before July 31, 2027. Applications open December 1, 2026, and require a $75 non-refundable application fee. The early deadline is January 13, 2027, the regular deadline is February 10, 2027, and the late deadline is March 31, 2027.