Pre-college summer programs offer high school students valuable opportunities to explore new subjects, develop practical skills, and enhance their college applications. Whether you are interested in STEM fields, such as computer science, engineering, and biology, or non-STEM areas, including humanities, arts, and social sciences, more educational programs are now offering a wide variety of virtual and in-person options for high school students.
Choosing the right program based on interests, learning style, and schedule can help you make the most of your summer, prepare for college-level work, and discover your passion. This guide will help you explore the best summer programs for your goals, setting you up for success.
Let’s dive in!
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Differences between Virtual and In-person Pre-College Summer Program
Before deciding on a pre-college summer program, it’s important to understand the key differences between virtual and in-person formats. Each offers unique advantages depending on your learning style, goals, and circumstances. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a detailed comparison of both options based on critical features such as learning environment, flexibility, social interaction, cost, hands-on experience, and self-discipline requirements.
Feature | Virtual Programs | In-person Programs | Evidence and Resources |
Learning Environment | Online, live, or recorded classes | On-campus, face-to-face classes and activities | Studies show online learners can perform as well as in-person learners when programs are well-designed (U.S. Dept. of Education, 2017). |
Flexibility | High, attend from anywhere with internet | Low, fixed location and schedule | Virtual programs offer accessibility for students who cannot relocate (Kamenetz, NPR, 2020). |
Social Interaction | Limited to virtual chats and group calls | Rich in-person social and networking opportunities | In-person programs boost social skills and networking, which are important for college and career success (American Psychological Association, 2021). |
Cost | Usually lower, no travel or housing expenses | Often higher due to housing, meals, and travel | Virtual programs reduce financial barriers, increasing access (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). |
Hands-on Experience | Limited, relies on simulations or at-home kits | Full access to labs, workshops, and campus resources | Hands-on learning in person increases engagement and retention (Freeman et al., 2014, PNAS). |
Self-discipline Required | High, requires strong time management skills | Moderate, structured daily schedule | Virtual learning demands more self-motivation, which varies by student (Harvard EdCast, 2021). |
Popular Program Examples | MIT Summer Programs Online, Stanford Online High School, Outschool | Carnegie Mellon Pre-College, Harvard SSP, University of Michigan STEM Program | See program websites for application details and scholarships. |
Virtual Summer Programs
Virtual programs offer the flexibility to learn from anywhere while still engaging in real-time classes, group projects, and interactive discussions. Students connect with instructors and peers online, gaining valuable skills and insights without the need to travel or live on campus.
These programs are ideal for international students who live in different time zones, are unable to relocate, or prefer learning in flexible circumstances. They are also an excellent option for those looking to explore new subjects or build skills without the added cost and logistics of in-person attendance.
Take Action:
- Look for programs that offer live sessions and interactive group work to stay engaged.
- Set up a dedicated study space at home to minimize distractions.
- Use a planner or app to manage your schedule and deadlines.
Top Virtual Programs for 2025–2026:
- MIT Summer Programs Online: Coding, AI, and math classes for high schoolers.
- Stanford Online High School Summer: Rigorous courses with live instruction.
- Khan Academy’s Summer Learning Challenge: Free and flexible with a focus on mastery.
- Outschool: Small group classes covering STEM, writing, and more; lots of options.
In-person Summer Programs
In-person summer programs offer students hands-on learning, an early campus-life experience, and close access to faculty and peers. Whether you’re conducting lab experiments, joining workshops, or collaborating on projects next summer, these programs provide a deeper, more immersive experience. Living on campus also helps build your independence and time-management skills while fostering meaningful connections.
In-person programs are a great fit for students, especially those living in-state, who are eager to engage in hands-on learning and enjoy direct interactions. These programs are perfect for those curious about a particular field of study or who love to prepare ahead for the college experience. From living in dorms to meeting peers from diverse backgrounds, students gain a real sense of campus life while building academic confidence and lasting social connections.
Take Action:
- Apply early, as spots fill quickly and many programs require essays or recommendations.
- Prepare for campus life by learning about dorm rules, meal plans, and schedules.
- Engage actively in social and academic events to build your network.
Top In-person Programs for 2025–2026:
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How to Choose the Right Summer Program?
When choosing a summer program, start by assessing your priorities, consider your learning style, flexibility, budget, comfort with online learning, and any personal or family needs.
Once you decide between virtual and in-person options, prepare carefully: for online programs, check deadlines, test your technology, and set up a good workspace; for in-person programs, apply early, gather recommendations, and plan your travel and packing. No matter the format, set clear goals, stay organized, participate actively, and network with instructors and peers to make the most of your experience.
Finally, explore scholarships, use program listing sites to compare options, follow updates from universities, and remember to balance learning with rest and fun.
Ready to find the right summer program for you? Start researching now, mark deadlines on your calendar, and reach out to teachers or mentors for advice and recommendations. Taking action early will help you secure a spot in the program that fits your goals and makes your summer unforgettable. If you need some help or don’t know where to start, fear not! We have all been there.
We are here to help! Aralia offers personalized online classes for high school students seeking to strengthen their academics, prepare for AP/IB exams, or build a standout college application. Taught by experienced teachers and professors, these one-on-one or small-group sessions cover over 100 subjects, ranging from core academics to electives such as writing, public speaking, and competition preparation. To get started, simply fill out this inquiry form.
