An independent program with an over twenty-year history of inspiring readers, writers, thinkers, and leaders, Great Books Summer Program brings together bright students from all around the world. Join us and engage with enduring texts of literature and philosophy to discover and explore the great human issues and questions in a unique, mentored pre-college setting.
High school students at Great Books learn to take command of their own best thinking and powers of expression as they enjoy a preview of college life – living in dormitories, dining on campus, and experiencing classes with university professors. This is excellent preparation for seminar-style college classes and for entering university with confidence.
For younger students in our middle school program, Great Books Summer Program is often a time of intellectual awakening, as their own powers of critical thinking and perception blossom. Young minds learn how to make connections between the themes of great literature and their own lives. Students gain confidence as they find their own voice to share ideas.
Location(s)
- Location varies based on program, with remote options available
Schedule
- Dates vary by location and program
- Programs run from June through August
Cost/Compensation
- Tuition varies by location, program, commuter status, and program duration
- Tuition ranges from $875 to $4,295
Eligibility Requirements
- Great Books Summer Program offers sessions for three age groups: the Great Books Explore program for those entering grades 4-5 in autumn, the Middle School Program for those entering grades 6-8 in autumn, and the High School Program for those entering grades 9-12 in autumn.
Deadline
- Rolling
- Financial Aid applications are due April 4th, 2025
Application or Entry Requirements
- Registration
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
- A limited amount of Financial Aid is available to applicants whose families demonstrate significant financial need. Scholarships are awarded to applicants who complete the Financial Aid application and submit additional Scholarship materials.
- All Financial Aid and Scholarship awards support students to attend GBSP’s domestic on-campus programs during summer 2025. The recipient of an award may elect to attend a Great Books Online or Writer’s Workshop Online program instead of an on-campus program.
- The majority of our financial support is offered in the form of Sponsorships, which are agreements made in cooperation with a host of sponsoring organizations. We welcome and encourage students to secure support through sponsors or scholarship sources outside the GBSP network.
- Please contact emileec@greatbookssummer.com for support and guidance identifying local and national resources.
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
The Great Books Summer Program is an immersive and intellectually enriching experience designed for passionate young readers and thinkers. Held at prestigious college campuses across the United States, this program offers high school students the opportunity to delve into the world's greatest literary works and engage in thoughtful discussions, debates, and seminars. Participants explore classic texts from various disciplines, spanning philosophy, literature, history, and more, under the guidance of experienced educators. The program not only encourages critical thinking and analytical skills but also fosters a love for intellectual exploration and lively discourse.
