15 Pre-College Summer Programs for High School Students in California

If you're a high school student planning to apply to college soon and want a taste of college-level academics and life, consider joining a pre-college summer program. These programs let you learn from professors and industry experts, work on real projects, and even build a portfolio or earn college credit. Plus, spending a few weeks on a college campus can help you figure out if a particular school or subject is the right fit for you.

Whether you’re conducting experiments, coding an app, or creating a short film, these programs help you build skills and gain experience in a fun, structured environment. Hosted by top universities like Stanford, UCLA, and UC Berkeley in California, the programs below offer high-quality academics, hands-on learning, and a glimpse into college life. 

To help you find the right fit, we’ve put together a list of the 15 pre-college summer programs for high school students in California!

15 Pre-College Summer Programs for High School Students in California

1. Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an 8-week residential internship for high school juniors and seniors interested in biomedical research. You’ll work on research projects and gain hands-on experience in lab techniques like PCR, cell culture, microscopy, and data analysis. 

The program pairs you with a mentor in Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine and select departments, where you’ll learn how to design experiments, interpret scientific data, and present your findings. 

Location: Stanford University campus (Stanford, CA)

Cost: $40 application fee with a need-based refund, stipend of $500 provided ($1500 for need-based students).

Application Deadline: February 22

Program Dates: June 9- July 31

Eligibility: High School Juniors and Seniors. At least 16 years old when the program begins. Living in the U.S. and U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a green card.

2. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

COSMOS (California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science) is a summer program at UC San Diego for high school students passionate about STEM fields. You’ll take on challenging coursework and hands-on research in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. 

You’ll have full access to university labs and research gear, working on projects that fit your interests while leveling up your data analysis, problem-solving, and science communication skills. The program also includes on-campus housing, giving you a chance to experience college life and explore what a STEM career could look like.

Location: University of California, San Diego (residential)

Cost: $42 non-refundable application fee + $5,256 for the residential program including housing, meals, orientation, field trips & activities, and on-site support. Financial aid is available for California residents.

Application Deadline: February 7

Program Dates: July 6 — August 1 (UCI, UCSD) | July 6 — August 2 (UCD, UCLA, UCSC)

Eligibility: Students in grades 8–12 who excel in mathematics/science, and are attending a California high school are eligible to apply.

3. USC’s Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a journalist, news anchor, or media expert, this program is a great place to start. USC’s Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement is a free summer program for high school students interested in journalism, media, and communication. 

Over four weeks, you’ll explore the role of media in shaping society while improving your writing, public speaking, debate, and critical thinking skills. Each year, 26 students from Los Angeles County are selected to participate. In addition to coursework, you’ll get college essay guidance, career advice, and an inside look at USC Annenberg’s undergraduate programs.

Location: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA

Cost: Fully funded

Application Deadline: April 14

Program Dates: June 16 — July 3

Eligibility: Students must reside and attend high school in Los Angeles County.

4. Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY)

The Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY) is a summer program at UC Berkeley that gives 50 students from around the world a deep dive into business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Led by Berkeley-Haas professors, you’ll explore business formation, marketing, finance, and strategy through independent research, computer lab work, and group projects. 

Working in teams, you’ll develop a business plan and pitch it at the end of the program. B-BAY also helps with college admissions prep, offering guidance on UC personal statements and college essays, plus the chance to connect with Berkeley undergraduates and admissions advisors.

Location: University of California- Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

Cost: California Resident — $6,292; Out of State Resident — $7,332 (Application fee: $80). Limited needs-based scholarships are available.

Application Deadline: Rolling

Program Dates: July 5 — July 19; July 19 — August 2

Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to apply.

5. UC Irvine’s Math ExpLR Summer Research Program

The UC Irvine Math ExpLR Summer Research Program is a 6-week experience where you’ll work with undergraduates on a computational biology research project, guided by a principal investigator. You’ll learn coding for data analysis, statistical modeling, and mathematical problem-solving while also improving your scientific writing and presentation skills. The program also includes workshops on research methods, data visualization, and writing research papers.

Location: University of California, Irvine, CA

Cost: Fully funded

Application Deadline: April 14

Program Dates: June 17 —  July 25

Eligibility: Applicants must currently be high school students and not be graduating in spring this year.

6. UCLA Film and Television Summer Institute

The UCLA Digital Filmmaking Summer Institute is a three-week program where you’ll learn how films and TV shows are made, from storytelling and scriptwriting to animation and editing. You’ll watch films, meet industry professionals, and even visit a Hollywood studio to see filmmaking in action. 

Using professional cameras, editing software, and sound equipment, you’ll work on your film projects with other students. By the end of the program, you’ll have hands-on experience in directing, editing, and visual storytelling, plus the opportunity to earn UCLA college credit.

Location: University of California, Los Angeles, CA

Cost: Varied based on the track selected and number of units. Calculate here. Financial aid is available for California students.

Application Deadline: Registration opens February 15. Deadlines are based on session dates. More information here.

Program Dates: June 23 — August 1 | August 4 — September 12. Varies based on selected program.

Eligibility: Some tracks are open to high school students.

7. Eve and Gene Black Summer Medical Career Program

If you are thinking about a career in medicine but are not sure where to start, The Eve and Gene Black Summer Medical Career Program, run by the Los Angeles Pediatric Society, is a good place to start. This 6 to 8-week program lets you explore careers in pediatrics, nursing, pharmacy, radiology, therapy, and more. You’ll attend interactive sessions, hear from medical professionals, and, in some cases, get to shadow doctors and nurses in person. The program wraps up with a final presentation, where you’ll share what you’ve learned.

Location: Los Angeles Pediatric Society, Los Angeles, CA

Cost: Fully funded. Participants receive a $500 scholarship and a certificate of completion at the end of the program.

Application Deadline: February 14

Program Dates: 2 and 4-week sessions available between June and August; dates vary for different sessions. 2-week virtual sessions are also available.

Eligibility: Current 11th and 12th-grade students can apply.

8. Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS)

The Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS) is a 4-week residential program that provides academic support for three years after acceptance. Designed for students from low-income backgrounds and underrepresented groups, it helps you build the skills needed for college success. 

You’ll live on campus, take college-level courses in critical inquiry and math, and develop analytical thinking, research, and academic writing skills. The program also includes workshops on leadership, public speaking, and college admissions, along with field trips and cultural events.

Location: Pomona College, Claremont, CA

Cost: Fully funded

Application Deadline: February 24

Program Dates: June 22 — July 18

Eligibility: Applicants must be 9th-grade students and residents of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, or Ventura Counties.

9. UCLA Pre-Med Summer Scholar Program

The UCLA Pre-Med Summer Scholar Program gives you hands-on medical training and exposure to different healthcare fields. You’ll practice suturing, CPR, and hemorrhage control and even earn a "Stop the Bleed" certification. The program includes training in surgical skills, medical imaging, pathology, and lab tours, helping you understand the real-world applications of medicine. You’ll also hear from healthcare professionals in guest lectures, participate in a provider panel, and get an introduction to basic science research.

Location: UCLA, Los Angeles, CA

Cost: $1450

Application Deadline: March 15

Program Dates: June 23–27 | July 7–11

Eligibility: Open to current sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending high school in the United States who are at least 16 years old at the time of participation, as required by hospital policy.

10. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)

The Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) is an intensive program for rising juniors and seniors who want to explore advanced math concepts. You’ll study abstract algebra, number theory, combinatorics, and graph theory through interactive lectures, problem sets, and research projects. 

The program emphasizes proof-writing, logical reasoning, and mathematical modeling, helping you develop the skills needed for higher-level math. You’ll also work with peers on complex problem-solving, coding simulations, and mathematical proofs.

Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA, or virtual

Cost: Fully funded

Application Deadline: February 3

Program Dates: June 16 — July 4 | July 7 — July 25

Eligibility: Students who are in 10th or 11th grade at the time of application and who demonstrate genuine interest in mathematics are encouraged to apply.

11. Mary S. Easton Center at UCLA — Neuroscience High School Scholars Program

The UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program gives high school juniors and seniors the chance to learn about Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). The program has a six-week in-person summer session and a virtual option. You’ll attend seminars on brain function, neurodegenerative diseases, and research methods and get guidance on starting an Alzheimer’s Awareness Club at your school. Some students may also work on research projects, analyzing data, conducting cognitive assessments, and learning lab techniques used in neuroscience.

Location: UCLA, Los Angeles, CA or virtual

Cost: Free

Application Deadline: March 3

Dates: June 16 — July 24

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors, especially from underrepresented communities, with an interest in neuroscience.

12. Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research Lab (BAIR) High School Summer Program

The Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research Lab (BAIR) High School Summer Program is a free program for students entering grades 10–12 who want to explore AI technologies, machine learning, and robotics. Hosted at UC Berkeley’s BAIR Lab, you’ll work with researchers in areas like computer vision, natural language processing, planning, and control systems. 

The program includes guest lectures, hands-on coding exercises, and lab visits. You’ll also get a chance to analyze datasets, experiment with AI models, and discuss AI ethics while experiencing campus life with lunches at Berkeley’s dining halls and a campus tour.

Location: BAIR lab, University of California, Berkeley, CA

Cost: Fully funded

Application Deadline: April 30

Program Dates: July 8 — July 12.

Eligibility: Bay Area high school youth entering grades 10–12 can apply.

13. UC San Diego Academic Connections at the University of California, San Diego

UC San Diego Academic Connections is a summer program for high school students who want to dive into STEM subjects with university-level coursework. Hosted at UC San Diego, the program offers classes in areas like ocean ecosystem dynamics, structural engineering, biomedical sciences, and artificial intelligence. You’ll take part in lectures, discussions, lab work, and hands-on projects to apply what you learn. The program wraps up with a final project, where you’ll showcase your research or design work.

Location: University of California, San Diego (commuter program)

Cost: $4,500

Application Deadline: May 9

Program dates: July 7 — July 25

Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to apply.

14. California State Summer School for the Arts Film Program

The California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA) Film Program is a four-week summer program for high school students interested in filmmaking. You’ll explore narrative, documentary, and experimental film, working on hands-on projects with guidance from industry professionals. The program covers film theory, production, cinematography, screenwriting, and editing, giving you experience with the full filmmaking process. You’ll also watch and analyze over 50 films, learning how different storytelling techniques work on screen.

Location: California State Summer School for the Arts, Sacramento, CA

Cost: $4,830 (California residents); $9,977 (out-of-state residents)

Application Deadline: February 28

Program Dates: July 6 — August 1

Eligibility: Students in grades 8–12 can apply.

15. Sally Ride Science Academy at the University of California, San Diego

The Sally Ride Science Academy at UC San Diego offers workshops in STEM fields like astronomy, biology, engineering, computer science, and robotics. You will also explore topics like coding, data science, digital design, and psychology. Led by scientists and experienced instructors, these hands-on workshops help you build skills in problem-solving, data analysis, and creative thinking. You’ll work on collaborative projects, conduct experiments, and use real-world scientific tools. Most courses are in person, but online options are available.

Location: University of California, San Diego, CA

Cost: Each course’s fees differ, ranging from $175 to $450. Scholarships are available.

Application deadline: May 31

Program dates: July 7 — July 25

Eligibility: Open to all high school students.

If you are interested in virtual summer programs, here are two bonus programs to consider:

• Lumiere Research Scholar Program

The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers high school students the chance to conduct independent research with 1-on-1 mentorship. Over 12 weeks, you will be paired with a Ph.D. mentor who will guide you through your project. You can choose to explore topics such as history, art, literature, culture, and more. 

By the end of the program, you will have developed a research paper. This program provides a personalized, focused approach to research at the high school level. Find more details about the application here!

Location: Remote — You can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Cost: $2,990 - Individual Research Program (12 weeks); $5,900- Premium Research & Publication Program (16-20 weeks); $8,900 Research Fellowship (6-12 months). Full financial aid is available!

Program Dates: Summer: June - August, fall: September - December, winter: December - February, spring: March - June.

Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort. The Summer Cohort I application deadline is April 13!

Eligibility: You must be currently enrolled in high school. Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required! (Note: Students must have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)

• Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)

Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students in subjects such as data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, chemistry, neuroscience, psychology, and more. You can choose between quantitative or qualitative research, allowing you to focus on your preferred approach. 

Once you select your subject and research type, you’ll be paired with a professor or PhD scholar from a top university who will mentor you throughout the process. The goal is to help you create a 20-page research paper at a university level, which you can submit to academic journals for publication. This program provides an opportunity to conduct research in specialized fields with guidance from a leading scholar. Apply here!

Location: Remote

Cost: You can find the exact cost by submitting an interest form. Full financial aid is available.

Application Deadlines: Priority: March 23; Regular I: April 20; Regular II: May 18

Program Dates: The cohort starts June 16. Lab dates are flexible, but you must apply at least four weeks in advance.

Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply.

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Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.