Harvard’s Pre-College Program for high school students is an intensive two-week summer program designed to give you a glimpse of college life. You will live on the Harvard campus during your two-week session while taking a college-level course with other Pre-College Program students.
Test your intellect without the pressure of letter grades. Classes are non-credit, so you can take a college-level course for learning's sake.
Live a balanced (college) life. When class is not in session, you'll participate in creative and social activities that stimulate your mind. And take time to have fun and get to know your peers.
Discover your passions. Whether you're undecided about potential areas of study or want to take a deeper dive into a subject you love, the Pre-College Program can help you find what really excites you.
Location(s)
- Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
Schedule
- Session I: June 21 – July 2, 2026
- Session II: July 5 – 17, 2026
- Session III: July 19 – 31, 2026
Cost/Compensation
- $6,100 tuition
Eligibility Requirements
- Harvard’s Pre-College Program is designed for mature, academically motivated students who are interested in exploring a potential major or simply finding out what college is really like.
- Our Pre-College Program is open to rising juniors and seniors. To be eligible for Summer 2026, you must meet both of the following criteria:
- Will graduate from high school and enter college in 2027 or 2028.
- Are at least 16 years old by June 20, 2026, and will not turn 19 years old before July 31, 2026.
Deadline
- Early Application & Priority Financial Aid Deadline: Wednesday, January 7, 2026
- Regular Application & Financial Aid Deadline: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
- Late Application Deadline: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (or earlier if all course waitlists are full)
Application or Entry Requirements
- Completed online application
- The $75 nonrefundable application fee
- Counselor report: You can request a link be sent to your counselor in the application
- Transcripts from 9th grade to most recent fall grades: This can include progress reports, report cards, and educational summaries from your high school
- Rules and Media Release online form: You can request a link be sent to your parent or legal guardian in the application
- If English is not your native language, submit scores from the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, or Duolingo language proficiency exam along with your application
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
- A limited number of scholarships are available to assist students who demonstrate financial need.
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
- Application Opens: Monday, December 1, 2025
Have other questions?
Harvard Division of Continuing Education is a division of Harvard University dedicated to bringing rigorous programs and innovative online teaching capabilities to distance learners, working professionals, high school students, college students, and those seeking higher learning in retirement. The program offers more than 300 courses taught by Harvard professors and visiting scholars during the day, evening, and in a variety of online and on-campus formats.
