Harvard University: Secondary School Programs for High School Students

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Harvard Summer School’s Secondary School Program (SSP) is a 4- or 7-week academic program for motivated high school students ready to excel in academically rigorous college courses for college credit.

Within the SSP, you will choose between taking one 4-week course while living on campus, or our more flexible 7-week option that offers residential, online, or commuting formats with the potential for one or two courses.

As a summer student at one of the top-ranked universities in the world, you'll experience a challenging learning environment. Whether you’re making liquid nitrogen ice cream in a chemistry lab or examining sea urchins with a marine biology professor, you'll find fascinating ways to build your knowledge.

Challenge yourself academically while earning college credit: Neuroscience, film, philosophy, creative writing, and computer science—these are just a few of the 200-plus courses you can choose from.

Expand your worldview: Learn and connect with students from all over the globe. You’ll also study alongside undergraduate students, graduate students, and working professionals.

Become a stronger college applicant: Participating in the Secondary School Program will not only enhance your college application, but the experiences you gain will also make you a more informed applicant and confident college student.

College Prep: You can participate in a variety of activities that expose you to college academics, campus life, and the admission process, including a fair with more than 75 colleges throughout the country, organized visits to New England colleges, such as Brown and Yale, and workshops to prepare you to write a college application essay or take college exams.

Live independently: You may choose to live on campus at Harvard, attend as a commuter, or take your courses online. However, living on campus provides an excellent opportunity to become a more independent, confident individual. To ensure your safety, proctors and staff provide guidance and supervision.

Get out and about: From free films and concerts to volunteer opportunities and day trips, there’s always something going on at Harvard. 

The total cost of the Secondary School Program depends on the number of courses taken and which format. All applicants pay a non-refundable $75 application fee.

7-Week Online or Commuting: $4,050 (4-credits) or $7,900 (8-credits)7-Week Residential: $14,950 (8-credits)4-Week Residential: $8,650 (4-credits)