We believe data science is not just a collection of techniques; it is foremost motivated by real-world problems. The data scientist of the 21st century must be able to identify relevant problems, provide sensible analyses, and ultimately communicate their findings in meaningful ways. By the end of the Wharton Data Science Academy, students will not only be equipped with essential data science techniques such as data visualization and data wrangling but will also be exposed to modern machine learning methodologies, which are all building blocks for today’s AI field. Along the way, students will develop a working proficiency with the R language, which is among the most widely used by professional data scientists in both academia and industry.
What students can expect:
- Wharton instructors who are data science experts will lead the lectures and will also be available to students outside of class.
- Students will advance their skills with data from real-world cases and will be challenged to articulate their findings with a final project.
- Wharton undergraduate and graduate TAs will engage with students and share their experiences in studying data science.
- Guest speakers who will share their wisdom of data science as a career.
- Students will work in teams to complete a final project and present to their peers at the end of the program.
Location(s)
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Schedule
- June 21 - July 11, 2026
- July 12 - August 1, 2026
Cost/Compensation
- Application Fee: $100
- Tuition: $10,599
Eligibility Requirements
- High school students currently enrolled in grades 10-11
- Must have a strong background in math and coding, and interest in data analytics.
- Previous understanding of statistics is preferred.
- Students must be open to the challenge of a rigorous curriculum similar to that of an intermediate Wharton undergraduate course.
- International applicants are welcome.
Deadline
- Priority Deadline: January 28, 2026
- Final Deadline: March 18, 2026
Application or Entry Requirements
- $100 application fee
- A completed online application
- Transcript
- 2025-2026 grade report for current courses is required if these grades are not on your official transcript
- Recommendation from a high school guidance counselor, teacher, or advisor is required for your application
- 2 short essays
- In 100-250 words, please describe a global issue you are most passionate about and why.
- Please list and briefly explain up to three of your hobbies.
- Non-native English speakers must submit test scores to verify English language proficiency. However, if you attend a high school where English is the primary language of instruction, this requirement is automatically waived.
- Optional: Standardized test scores
Notifications of Decisions
- Priority: March 11, 2026
- Final: April 15, 2026
Financial Aid Details
- The Wharton Global Youth Program is committed to supporting academically ambitious students with demonstrated financial need. Through a variety of need-based scholarships and financial awards, we are able to provide full or partial funding for a select number of eligible program participants.
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
The Wharton School of Business is a private Ivy League business school located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Part of the University of Pennsylvania, the school is known for its rigorous and prestigious academic programs in business, finance, and management. Wharton offers a variety of degree programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Economics, an MBA, and PhD programs in business and management. The school is also home to more than 100 research centers and initiatives that focus on topics ranging from finance and entrepreneurship to healthcare and social impact.
