25 Summer Leadership Programs for High School Students
Summer holidays offer an amazing period of time for students in high school. However, at the same time, summer is an awesome period for the development of students. Of the many options before them, the best one remains to be the summer leadership programs for high school students since they provide great opportunities to learn imperative skills, make congenial classmates, and equip them for future challenges. Here are 25 top-notch summer leadership programs that would offer valuable leadership opportunities for high school students.
Top 25 Summer Leadership Programs for High School Students
1. National Student Leadership Conference
Dates: Multiple sessions depending on program and location
Location: Varies
Application Deadline: Varies based on program
Cost: Varies
NSLC has intense summer high school leadership programs that cover a wide range of subjects, from business to medicine and engineering. Students can expect hands-on experiences, workshops, and networking with professionals in NSLC.
Suggested: List of Top Pre-College Summer Programs for US Students
2. Leadership in the Business World (LBW) at Wharton
Dates: Session 1: June 9–29; Session 2: June 30 – July 20; Session 3: July 21 – August 10
Location: University of Pennsylvania
Application Deadline: April 3
Cost: $10,999
Other opportunities emanate from this Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and it is for the students with a wish to lead in business. Key learning presented in this course include leadership training and hands-on team-based programs in business concepts.
3. Yale Young Global Scholars
Dates: Session 1: June 23 – July 5; Session 2: July 7 – 19; Session 3: July 21 – August 2
Location: Yale University
Application Deadline: N/A
Cost: $6,500
YYGS is an intensive program of academic study and leadership experience for student participants from around the world. There are sessions for Politics, Law, and Economics, with seminars from members of the Yale faculty.
4. University of Michigan – Summer Discovery
This program at the University of Michigan offers college courses, preparatory opportunities for the SAT/ACT, and leadership workshops. Students will gain a competitive edge for their applications.
5. Brown Leadership Institute
Dates: On-campus session 1: June 23 – July 5; On-campus session 2: July 14 – 26; Online: June 24 – July 19
Location: Brown University
Application Deadline: May 10
Cost: $4,318 – $5,498
The Leadership Institute at Brown University is an academic and social justice leadership hybrid study training program, wherein students develop and implement a service project in their community.
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6. Georgetown University High School Programs—Summer
Georgetown University offers a variety of alternative summer leadership courses for high school students. Fundamentals of Leadership is a course in which students are able to improve their leadership basics even further with numerous activities and workshops.
7. Telluride Association Summer Program (TASP)
Date: Late June
Location: Hosted at different universities each year
Application Deadline: Early January
Cost: Free including tuition, room, board, and books
TASP is a free yet highly selective program emphasizing intellectual growth and democratic leadership. Here, students take part in seminars and community activities.
8. University of Notre Dame Leadership Seminars
Dates: July 20 – 31
Location: University of Notre Dame
Application Deadline: January 22
Cost: $210 (a $60 application fee and a $150 enrollment fee upon acceptance)
These seminars focus on social justice, business, and global issues, providing students with the tools to become effective leaders.
9. Washington University in St. Louis – High School Summer Scholars Program
This program offers a blend of college courses and leadership workshops to help students prepare for their future academic and professional careers.
10. Leadership Programs
Envision’s leadership programs include medicine, engineering, and national defense. A student here can see things more closely and learn precious practical knowledge from professionals.
Read also: Top 11 Business Internships for High School Students
11. MIT Launch Summer Program
Date: Usually June or July
Location: Varies on program and location
Application Deadline: Typically in February
Cost: Varies depending on the program however, many programs are free or low-cost
MIT Launch is an entrepreneurship program where students learn how to start their own companies. It includes workshops, mentorship, and real-world business challenges.
12. National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF)
NYLF offers various programs in medicine, law, and engineering. These programs combine academic learning with hands-on experiences to develop leadership skills.
13. Global Youth Leadership Institute (GYLI)
Dates: Session 1: June 23 – July 5; Session 2: July 7 – 19; Session 3: July 21 – August 2
Location: Yale University
Application Deadline: N/A
Cost: $6,500
GYLI focuses on global issues and leadership. Students engage in workshops, outdoor activities, and community service projects to build leadership skills and global awareness.
14. Princeton University Summer Journalism Program (SJP)
Date: August
Location: Princeton, New Jersey, USA
Application Deadline: Typically in February
Cost: Free, including travel, lodging, and meals
SJP is a free program for high-achieving students interested in journalism. It includes lectures, reporting assignments, and mentorship from professional journalists.
15. Future Leaders of Business and Industry (FLBI)
FLBI provides leadership training for students interested in business and industry. The program includes workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities with professionals.
Read also: Top 11 Computer Science Internships for High School Students
16. The Anytown Leadership Program
Anytown is a diversity and leadership program that addresses social justice issues. Students participate in activities and discussions to promote inclusivity and leadership.
17. Columbia University Summer Immersion Program
Columbia’s program offers courses in various fields focusing on leadership and innovation. Students engage in interactive learning and project-based activities.
18. Leadership and Community Engagement (LCE) at UC Berkeley
LCE combines academic study with community service. Students develop leadership skills while working on projects that address community needs.
19. Notre Dame Leadership Seminars
Dates: July 20 – 31
Location: University of Notre Dame
Application Deadline: January 22
Cost: $210 (a $60 application fee and a $150 enrollment fee upon acceptance)
Notre Dame’s seminars offer an in-depth look at global issues and leadership. The program includes lectures, discussions, and group projects.
20. Washington University in St. Louis Pre-College Programs
Washington University offers several programs focusing on leadership and academic enrichment. Students participate in workshops, discussions, and hands-on projects.
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21. United World College (UWC) Summer Program
UWC focuses on peace, sustainability, and leadership. Students from diverse backgrounds engage in discussions and activities that promote global understanding and leadership.
22. Boston University Summer Challenge
This program at the Boston University offers courses in various subjects, emphasizing leadership and problem-solving. Students participate in collaborative projects and interactive learning.
23. Duke University Summer Academy
Duke’s program includes leadership, critical thinking, and global issues courses. Students engage in experiential learning and group projects.
24. American Legion Boys State/Girls State
These programs teach students about government and leadership. Participants engage in simulations of state government, develop leadership skills, and meet civic leaders.
25. The Civic Education Project (CEP)
CEP offers programs focused on leadership, community service, and civic engagement. Students participate in hands-on projects and learn about social issues.
Read also: Top 11 Law Internships for High School Students
From the Desk of Yocket
A high school summer leadership program may prove to be life-changing. The benefits of these leadership opportunities for high school students go way beyond just adding a bullet point to a college application process. There are too many program areas, some focus on business, others on medicine, journalism, and global issues. Check over the programs and find the one that works best for you, and this may be your first step to a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can high school students apply for leadership camps, and what criteria are used in the selection process?
To enroll in leadership camps, high school students must complete an application form available on the camp’s official website. This application typically requires personal details, academic transcripts, and descriptions of extracurricular activities. Selection for these camps involves assessing the applicant’s leadership capabilities, academic performance, and involvement in extracurricular activities.
2. How do you determine the best summer leadership program?
Think of your interests and career goals, location, and duration of the program; then, definitely last but not least, think about your budget. Research what curricula each program has, its alumni network, and available hands-on experience opportunities to ensure that it aligns entirely with your goals.
3. Does a summertime leadership program offer scholarships?
Yes, most programs offer scholarships or financial aid based on need or merit. You can visit the official website of the specific program to check out how you should apply for financial assistance.
4. Can international students apply for PG programs?
Although most programs are open to international students, eligibility varies from program to program, so it is worth finding out. Therefore, the programs may offer specific criteria for international students, such as language proficiency.