writing program for high school students

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 12 summer writing programs for high school students (2022 -2023).

Extracurriculars

Love reading, writing, and being creative? Then consider checking out summer writing programs for high school students! 

Whether you want to become a journalist or the next Poet Laureate, there are tons of summer writing programs that will help you achieve your goals. Participating in these programs can look great on college applications too! 

In this article, we’ll give you all the info you need to decide if creative writing summer programs for high school students are right for you, including: 

• A full description of 12 summer writing programs for high school students (including cost, eligibility, and what they cover!)
• A quick, five question quiz to help you decide if a summer writing program is right for you
• Three tips on how to impress colleges with your summer writing program

Let’s get started! 

Summer's the perfect time for sitting on the beach, eating ice cream...and participating in writing programs. 

What Are Summer Writing Programs for High School Students? 

Creative writing summer programs for high school students are a great way for students with an interest in writing to explore subjects they’re interested in, build skills for college, and meet other students who share their interests.  

As a bonus, summer writing programs can look great on college applications!

Summer writing programs for high schoolers are typically held between May and August each year . These programs are similar to a summer class or camp. Additionally, these programs last anywhere from a week to several weeks throughout the summer. 

Like summer camps, writing programs for high schoolers are pretty intensive. Students spend their time l istening to lectures from experts, participating in workshops, presenting their work, and getting real-life feedback. 

Best of all, summer writing programs are hands-on, so you’ll spend lots of time writing and creating original work ! The goal of any summer writing program is to help you develop and improve your writing skills through practice and feedback. 

While some programs teach general writing skills, many summer writing programs focus on a particular field or genre, like journalism, essay writing, or creative writing . For instance, if you’re thinking about becoming a journalism major, you might participate in a journalism writing summer program that’ll give you a glimpse of what it’s like to work in the industry.

There are many benefits of summer writing programs when it comes to college applications too. After all, writing great college essays is an important part of getting into your dream school! And because they’re extracurricular activities, summer writing programs are also a good option for students who are aiming for an arts-based spike approach on college applications. 

Dust off that typewriter...it's time to apply!

12 Summer Writing Programs for High School Students

We’ve put together a list of 12 summer creative writing summer programs for high school students to help you get a sense of the many great options out there. Our list includes journalism, research-based, and creative writing summer programs for high school students so you can find the best one for you! 

#1: The School of New York Times Summer Academy

• Eligibility: Must be entering 10th, 11th, 12th grade, or graduating high school
• Dates: Term 1: June 5-17; Term 2: June 19-July 1; Term 3: July 3-15; Term 4: July 17-29
• Location: New York City
• Cost: $6,420 for residential; $5,820 for day program
• Deadlines: Varies by term; deadlines range from early May to mid-June

The New York Times (NYT) offers a series of writing-based summer courses for high school students at their campus in New York City. Courses are designed to develop students’ curiosity and critical thinking through traditional coursework and in the museums, arts centers, think tanks, and start-up labs of New York City. Courses are offered on various topics , including creative writing and investigative journalism. 

The program “seeks talented student leaders with diverse interests, ambitions and writing styles.” To participate, students complete an online application that includes short answer questions and optional writing samples, high school transcripts, and one recommendation. 

#2: Boston University Summer Journalism Academy

• Eligibility: Must be aged 14-18 
• Dates: Vary by year; Session 1: June 20-July 1; Session 2: July 4-July 15; Session 3: July 18-July 29
• Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
• Cost: On-Campus w/tuition, room, board and activity fees: $3700; On-Campus Commuter w/tuition and activity fees: $2700; Learn-from-Home: $1300
• Deadlines: Applications due mid-May

The Summer Journalism Academy at Boston University is designed to introduce high school students to life as news reporters . Students practice their skills in the classroom then apply them to hands-on learning opportunities in a real newsroom. One of the biggest perks is that students get to learn from working journalists who cover a wide range of beats. 

Students can participate in person or remotely. In-person participants can stay on BU’s campus through the residential program, where they’ll get a chance to live alongside other academy attendees. To participate, applications must be submitted online and should include a 300-word letter explaining the student’s interest in journalism.

#3: Asian American Journalist Association (AAJA) Journalism Camp

• Eligibility: 9th-12th graders with a strong interest in journalism 
• Dates: Summer; exact program dates may vary
• Location: Varies by year; JCamp 2022 is hosted by the University of Southern California
• Cost: No cost (travel expenses are also covered by the program)
• Deadlines: Applications due March 31

The AAJA‘s six-day summer training camp, called JCamp, gives students the opportunity to learn from journalists and journalism executives while developing their writing skills. This summer writing program gives students hands-on experience producing multi-platform news packages that are published on the program’s news site, JCamp Live. 

Students who show a strong interest in broadcasting, newspaper, magazine, photojournalism, or online media are encouraged to apply online. Also, JCamp isn’t limited to Asian American students, so all high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible. Even better: all program costs are covered , including travel, university lodging, and meals. 

#4: Yale Daily News Summer Journalism Program

• Eligibility: Open to all high school students
• Dates: August 16-20
• Location: Varies by year; 2022 program held via Zoom
• Cost: Free to students from New Haven Public Schools; all other participants pay $160 in tuition
• Deadlines: Unspecified

The Yale Daily News Summer Journalism Program is a one-week journalism course for high school students. Students participate in workshops on the basics of writing and reporting, hear lectures by journalists from major publications, and work as a team to produce an issue of the Yale Daily News.  

As a bonus, the program is run entirely by undergraduate staff members of the Yale Daily News , so students will get to see what it’s like to be a real journalism student at an Ivy League school. 

To apply, students must submit four short answer questions and a pitch for one professional-grade news article . Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible as program costs may increase as the program start date approaches. 

Howard University's writing program is perfect for people who want to write across media--and yes, that includes TikTok.

#5: Howard University Multimedia Academy 

• Eligibility: Must be in 9th-12th grade
• Dates: June 14-25
• Location: Virtual/online
• Cost: Not specified
• Deadlines: Applications due June 5

Howard’s virtual summer writing program teaches students to use multimedia journalism to report on health and wellness in underserved communities . At the end of the program, students’ work appears on the Howard University News Service and on Voices of Tomorrow, a nonprofit that provides social services to immigrants and refugees from East African communities.  

Additionally, the best work by seniors and recent graduates will be eligible for the Dow Jones News Fund’s scholarship competition . To apply to Howard’s Multimedia Academy, students must fill out an online application, including a 250-word essay. 

#6: The Multicultural Journalism Program (MJW)  

• Eligibility: Rising 9th graders through college freshmen
• Dates: June 3-12
• Location: University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL
• Cost: Free, including housing, meals, and field trips; students are responsible for transportation to and from Tuscaloosa
• Deadlines: Applications due April 1

MJW’s summer writing program selects 10 to 15 students to attend an intensive workshop held in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This workshop focuses on multimedia reporting, writing, editing, graphics, photography, and production. During the workshop, students produce an issue of the MJP Journal to showcase everything they’ve learned. 

Applicants must submit a high school transcript, a typed 500-word essay explaining their interest in journalism, and a recommendation letter. The program also encourages students to submit samples of published journalistic work , but unpublished writing samples are also acceptable. 

#7: Carnegie-Mellon University Writing and Culture Program

• Eligibility: Must be at least 16 years old by program start date; must be a current high school sophomore or junior at time of application; must have an academic average of B (3.0/4.0) and/or have received a B or higher in their last English class.
• Dates: July 5-August 12
• Location: Carnegie-Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
• Cost: $9,000 for residential program; $6,932 for commuter program
• Deadlines: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

The Carnegie-Mellon Writing and Culture Program teaches high school students to think critically and express themselves creatively. This six-week course features classes taught by Carnegie-Mellon faculty, readings and events with local authors, and hands-on visits to Pittsburgh’s museums. Throughout the program, students produce a written portfolio that explores film, art, and culture . 

To apply, students must complete an online application that includes a high school transcript, responses to essay prompts, and up to three optional writing samples. If an applicant’s cumulative high school GPA is below a B average (3.0/4.0), submitting writing samples is strongly encouraged.

#8: Iowa Young Writers’ Studio Residential Program

• Eligibility: Must be a current 10th, 11th, or 12th grader
• Dates: Session 1: June 12-25; Session 2: July 10-23
• Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
• Cost: $2,500 for residential
• Deadlines: Applications due February 6

The Iowa Writers’ Workshop offers a two-week, residential creative writing summer program for 144 high school students from across the country. Once accepted, students will select a course of study from the following options: poetry, fiction, creative writing, playwriting, or TV writing. Students also participate in writing workshops, receive constructive feedback, and star in open mics and talent shows.

The Iowa Young Writers’ studio acceptance rate falls between 15% and 20% . A competitive application to this program will include a polished writing sample, statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, and high school transcript. Students from outside the United States are also welcome to apply. 

It turns out that Virginia is for writers.

#9: UVA Young Writers Workshop

• Eligibility: Session 1: rising 9th-12th graders; Session 2: rising 10th graders through rising first-year college students
• Dates: Session 1: June 19-July 1; Session 2: July 3-July 22  
• Location: Sweet Briar College, Sweet Briar, VA
• Cost: $2450 for Session 1; $3500 for Session 2
• Deadlines: Applications due March 1

UVA Young Writers Workshop is a summer program designed to immerse students in a creative writing genre . Students focus on one of the following for the duration of the program: short form creative writing, poetry, songwriting, screen and playwriting, creative nonfiction, or fiction. 

UVA Young Writers Workshop is one of the best summer writing programs for high school students because it offers two program sessions that are geared toward different skill levels . Session 1 is designed for a wider range of skill levels and experience, whereas Session 2 is geared toward more advanced writers. You can apply to both sessions online by submitting several writing samples, a brief autobiography, and a letter of recommendation. 

#10: Smith College Creative Writing Workshop

• Eligibility: Must be in 9th-12th grades; must be female-identified or gender-nonconforming students
• Dates: July 9-23
• Cost: $4,285
• Deadlines: Applications due May 15

Smith’s Creative Writing Workshop teaches the importance of practice and perseverance by engaging students in a multi-draft writing process in a variety of mediums . Students are taught by real published writers and get the chance to present their work at open mic and improv nights. In the evenings, there are even opportunities to meet with agents and learn how to create an author website!

Students are selected for this writing program based on academic performance, a written essay, and a teacher recommendation. Also, because Smith is a women’s college, this summer writing program is only open to young women, female-identified, or gender-nonconforming students . Students from outside of the U.S. are also encouraged to apply. 

#11: Sarah Lawrence Writer’s Week

• Eligibility: Must be in 9th-12th grade and 14 years of age or older by the program start date
• Dates: On-campus session: July 11-15; online session: August 1-5
• Location: Sarah Lawrence College, Bronxville, NY; online
• Cost: $1,125 for on-campus; $725 for online
• Deadlines: Unspecified; contact [email protected]​ for more information 

Writer’s Week at Sarah Lawrence is a week-long experience with creative writing and performance arts for high school students. Students attend workshops taught by real writers, artists, and Sarah Lawrence faculty and will get the chance to meet in small groups with workshop leaders. At the end of the week, the program hosts a celebration of student work and faculty and student readings. 

Sarah Lawrence Writer’s Week offers both an on-campus and online session (but note that the on-campus session is a day camp, not residential). Applications and registration must be completed online. 

#12: Alpha Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Workshop for Young Writers

• Eligibility: Must be aged 14-19
• Dates: July 20-31
• Location: University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg, PA
• Cost: $1,200
• Deadlines: Unspecified; applications open in January 

Alpha is a twelve-day writing workshop for 20 high school students at the University of Pittsburgh’s Greensburg campus. During this program, students are expected to write an original science fiction, fantasy, or horror short story of 2000 words or more. During the writing process, students receive plenty of hands-on guidance. 

The Alpha program is held in-person on the University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg campus . To apply, students must fill out an online form and submit an original short story of at least 2000 words. 

Quiz: Is a Summer Writing Program Right for You?

If you’re still not sure if participating in a summer writing program is right for you, don’t worry–we’re here to help! 

We’ve put together a five-question, yes-or-no response quiz to help you decide if summer writing programs support your interests and goals. Just read the questions below and respond with “yes” or “no.”

• Is your English class the most exciting part of your school day?  
• Do you spend free time reading and writing for fun? 
• Are you looking for new challenges and experiences as a writer? 
• Are you willing to share your writing with others, including peers you’ve just met and writing professionals and experts? 
• Are you highly motivated to pursue your interests outside of school and even during your summer vacation? 

If you responded with “yes” to three or more of the questions above, you might consider applying to a summer writing program for high school students! 

At the end of the day, you want your summer activities to support your interests and boost your college applications . If you’re aiming for a future career as a writer or just want to hone your writing hobby, a summer writing program may be the perfect fit for you.

3 Tips To Impress Colleges With Your Summer Writing Program

Summer writing programs for high school students look great to college admissions teams . But what are the best ways to showcase your writing experience on your applications? 

We’ll show you how to impress colleges with your summer writing program–just check out the tips below !

Tip 1: Work It Into Your College Essays

You want your college essays to tell a vivid story about your interests . Your experiences in a summer writing program provide a great springboard for illustrating your interests and passions on your college applications! 

Colleges want to accept students who are creative, courageous, and motivated to pursue their dreams. Writing about how you stretched and grew during your summer writing program will show colleges that you’re up for a challenge…and that you won’t give up, no matter how many revisions your draft needs. 

Tip 2: Connect It to Your Major

If you’re already certain you want to major in a writing-related field in college, your summer writing program will be especially helpful. Many elite schools ask students to apply directly to their chosen major. So if you’re applying to an arts or humanities major, there’s a good chance you’ll have to submit a writing sample as part of your college application . 

The good news is that most summer writing programs give you the chance to produce original writing and receive critiques from professional writers. By taking the writing you produce during your summer writing program and continuing to revise it, you’ll have a top-notch writing sample to include with your application.

Tip 3: Ask a Program Instructor for a Recommendation

Creative writing summer programs for high school students give you the opportunity to connect with writing faculty at elite colleges and real-life writers, journalists, poets, and more. These professionals provide feedback on your writing during your summer program…which means they’ll have unique insights into your potential as a college student ! 

In fact, several summer writing programs offer students the chance to receive a college recommendation from program faculty . For instance, the New York Times Summer Academy says this about recommendations from program faculty:

As a pre-college program, [NYT] Summer Academy gives students the opportunity to get a glimpse of the college experience while also exploring possible topics of study. Typically, college admissions officers look favorably on students who continue to enhance their academic portfolio during the summer months. Students will also benefit from receiving a narrative evaluation from their instructor which can be included as part of their college applications.

If you build strong rapport with an instructor at your summer writing program, consider staying in touch and asking them to write you a letter of recommendation for your college applications. Having a recommendation from someone outside of your high school will show colleges that you’re already building real-world connections with people in your future career field . 

What’s Next? 

Writing programs can prepare you for writing your college admissions essays . Our expert guide breaks down the whole admissions essay writing process , step by step.

One popular college essay format is the “why this school?” prompt. We’ll show you how to write an amazing “why this college” essay that will wow admissions counselors.  

If you’re not sure what a great college essay looks like, that’s okay. We’ve compiled a list of over 140 college essays that can inspire you as you’re writing yours! 

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

Top 10 Summer Writing Programs for High School Students

Prior to coming to Scholarships360 for her first internship in 2022, Savannah utilized her campus publications by joining various fashion publications that are offered at Ohio University. One of those publications is Thread Magazine, where Savannah has had the opportunity to work on articles related to world-wide related fashion news and events, as well as articles closer to home, such as a fashion piece on Athens hometown-hero Joe Burrow. This year, Savannah also had the opportunity to be a content writing intern for Aiken House, as well as a section editor for Southeast Ohio Magazine. In 2023, Savannah served as the Chapter President of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. These collective experiences, as well as her experience currently working for Ohio University’s Undergraduate Admissions, has led her to Scholarships360 and aided in her passion for helping students better understand the college admissions process and financial aid. In her free time, Savannah enjoys horseback riding, watching Formula One races, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family. Savannah will graduate from Ohio University in May 2024 with a degree in Journalism News and Information and a certificate in Italian Studies.

Learn about our editorial policies

If you are a high school student interested in enhancing your writing skills over the summer, look no further. Scholarships360 has you covered with our picks for top 10 writing summer camps for high school students. Let’s dive right in!

What is a summer writing program?

A summer writing program offers high school students interested in different types of writing to immerse themselves in the field. These programs range from creative writing, to playwriting, to poetry, and everything in between. 

Why we selected the following writing programs

We chose a diverse range of writing summer camps for high school students that vary in price, location, and academic focus. These are definitely not all of the writing programs that are in existence, but we wanted to name a few that impressed us.

A note on application deadlines and program dates

Application deadlines and program dates vary from program to program because these are all at different institutions, all over the country. We will do our best to keep these dates updated, so if a program that you are interested in currently says “TBD”, check back in a few weeks and the program may have released that information!

Apply to these scholarships due soon

FIRE First Amendment Scholarship Competition

“Gutsy Graduate Student” Essay Scholarship

“College Here I Come” Essay Scholarship for High School Seniors

“Scholar Dollars” Essay Scholarship for Black Students

“Making Waves” Scholarship for Women

“Tuition Solution” Scholarship for STEM Students

“A Helping Hand” Scholarship

“Follow Your Own Path” Essay Scholarship

“Commencing at Community College” Essay Scholarship

Top 10 summer writing programs for high schoolers, 1. iowa young writers’ studio.

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is a two-week session located at the University of Iowa campus or online. The two programs run at the same time, and there are two different date options for students to choose from. With this program, students select their primary focus throughout the program– fiction writing, poetry writing, or creative writing. 

• Program benefits : Readings by published writers; workshops on process and aspects of craft; discussions on writing-adjacent subjects (literary translation, film, revision, mental health); collaborative projects to allow small groups of students to work together; as well as open mics, talent shows, icebreakers, and social gatherings
• Application deadline: February 4th, 2024
• Session 1: June 16-29, 2024
• Session 2: July 14-27, 2024
• Cost: The in-person program is $2,500, and the online program is $575

2. Interlochen Center for the Arts Camp Creative Writing Programs

Interlochen Center for the Arts is a prestigious arts center for students of all ages who are interested in various types of arts to hone in on their craft. The Camp Creative Writing Programs are for high school students of all ages. Campers choose between four different tracks– Comics and Graphic Narratives Intensive, Creative Writing Program, Novel Writing Intensive, or Performance Poetry Intensive. The focus below is the broadest category, the Creative Writing Program. This three week intensive allows students to immerse themselves in the world of writing. 

• Program benefits : Genre workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and playwriting; placed in classes outside of comfort zones to learn more about different genres; reading showcase; guest artists and speakers
• Application deadline: January 15th, 2023, for both sessions
• Session 1: June 23, 2024 to July 13, 2024
• Session 2: July 14, 2024 to August 4, 2024
• Cost: $6,765

3. Sarah Lawrence College Writer’s Week: A Creative Writing & Performance Arts Workshop

The Sarah Lawrence Creative Writing and Performance Arts Workshop is offered both online and in person. The in-person workshop is a day camp, not a residential program. Each day of the program, students attend writing workshops led by poets, prose writers, and performance artists. The program also includes faculty led workshops and meetings, as well as a celebration of student work at the end of the program. 

• Program benefits : Work with distinguished faculty and graduate students, generating materials to share, collaboration with peers, learning to revise and edit. 
• Application deadline: TBD, registration opens in February
• Virtual session: July 15 – 19, 2024
• In-Person session: August 5 – 9, 2024
• July Session (Virtual) $1,025 ($100 deposit)
• August Session (On Campus) $1,550 ($200 deposit)

4. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program

The Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program is a six-week high school summer program where students immerse themselves in writing, film, design, art, and culture. This program teaches students how to properly tell a story, regardless of what their story may be. Applicants must be sophomores or juniors in high school at the time of the application submission. There are opportunities to receive scholarships for this program as well, which is something to keep in mind while applying. 

• Program benefits : Opportunities to explore some of Pittsburgh’s world-class museums, access to the Carnegie Mellon Archives and Fine and Rare Book Rooms, mentorship and networking opportunities.
• Application deadline : Early decision deadline is February 1st, 2024, regular decision deadline is March 1st, 2024
• Program dates: June 22nd – July 20th, 2024
• Residential: $8,995
• Commuter: $6,800

Related: Top writing and essay scholarships

5. Denison University Reynolds Young Writers Workshop

The Reynolds Young Writers Workshop based out of Denison University in Granville, Ohio is an eight-day residential writing program that helps to immerse students in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction writing. This program is open to students who have completed their sophomore or junior year of high school who have an interest in writing. Generous financial assistance is available to those who need it.  

• Program benefits : Group sessions, hands-on work with Denison faculty and staff, notable visiting writers
• Application deadline: March 1st, 2024 at 11:59 PM
• Program dates: June 22 – 29, 2024
• Cost: $1,500

6. Alpha– The Young Writers Workshop

Alpha – The Young Writers Workshop is a 12-day writing workshop for students ages 14-19 located on the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg campus. Not only will students immerse themselves in their writing and have the opportunity to hone in on that skill, but they will also learn more about the technical side of writing– submitting for publication, editing, and receiving feedback. Alpha also offers scholarships for those who may need them. 

• Program benefits : Ample time spent with influential professors, opportunities for brainstorming workshops, professional writer presentations, lectures. 
• Application deadline : March 10th, 2024
• Program dates : July 24 – August 4, 2024

Don’t miss: Top free summer programs for high school students

7. Loyola Marymount University- Beginning Screenwriting Program

The Loyola Marymount University Beginning Screenwriting Program is a hands-on two-week program located on the campus of one of the nation’s best film schools. Students learn the basics of the script developing process, gain a deeper understanding of cinematic storytelling, and enhance their writing skills. The first program dates are for eligible high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The second program dates are for juniors and seniors only. 

• Program benefits : Opportunity for hands-on experiences within Los Angeles’ film industry, touring local film or television studio”
• Application deadline : March 15th, 2024
• Session 1: June 23-July 6, 2024
• Session 2: July 14-July 27, 2024
• Cost : $5,800 with a $65 application fee

8. Georgetown University Creative Writing Academy

The Georgetown University Creative Writing Academy is a week-long writing academy for high school students of all ages. During this academy, students have the opportunity to work on and present a capstone project, which can be on various topics and within various subject areas. This academy focuses largely on the publishing aspects of creative writing. 

• Program benefits : Readings from published authors, work with Georgetown faculty and staff, field trips, group discussions
• Application deadline : The “Early Bird” deadline is January 31st, 2024, and the Final deadline is May 15th, 2024
• Program dates: July 14th – 20th, 2024
• Cost :$3,389, includes tuition, housing, and meals

9. Emerson Writes

The Emerson Writes is an on-campus program that focuses on topics such as fiction, prose, scriptwriting, comedy writing, graphic novel writing, and performance poetry. This program offers students opportunities to create and revise their personal writing portfolio. 

• Program benefits : Work with highly regarded faculty writers, participate in literary hangouts, participate in “final reading” at the conclusion of the program
• Application deadline : TBD, not yet open
• Program dates : Depending on which courses you choose to take, the schedule varies, but the first class starts in September 2024
• Cost : Free

Also see: How to rock the summer before your senior year

10. Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program

The last entry on our list of writing summer camps for high school students is also one of the most prestigious. The Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program is a two-week summer program that offers over 100 non-credit courses for high school students to take part in. The Speech, Writing, and Literature topic is a great option for students who want to pursue a career in writing or just want to develop their craft. This topic offers multiple different courses, such as creative writing, English, expository writing, journalism, and speech. The program also offers some financial aid for qualifying students. 

• Program benefits : Build valuable academic skills, learn to live independently on a college campus, take sample college courses
• Early Application and Priority Financial Aid Deadline — January 10, 2024
• Regular Application and Financial Aid Deadline — February 14, 2024
• Late Application Deadline — April 10, 2024
• Session I: June 23 – July 5, 2024
• Session II: July 7 – 19, 2024
• Session III: July 21 – August 2, 2024
• Cost : $5,550 + $75 application fee

Don’t miss: High school checklist: Freshman through senior year

• Now that you’ve got some writing summer camps for high school students in mind, start preparing your application materials! This may include application essays , letters of recommendation , transcripts, or sample writing materials
• Apply for program scholarships if needed
• Write! Bring your writing samples with you, as you never know when you might need them
• Don’t forget that Scholarships360 offers all the resources you need as you continue your education! It’s never too early to learn about extracurricular activities and when to start applying to colleges ! 

Start your scholarship search

• Vetted scholarships custom-matched to your profile
• Access exclusive scholarships only available to Scholarships360 members

Scholarships360 Recommended

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

What Are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

Cupertino, CA

• Our Philosophy
• Our Results
• News, Media, and Press
• Common Application
• College Application Essay Editing
• Extracurricular Planning
• Academic Guidance
• Summer Programs
• Interview Preparation

Middle School

• Pre-High School Consultation
• Boarding School Admissions

College Admissions

• Academic and Extracurricular Profile Evaluation
• Senior Editor College Application Program
• Summer Program Applications
• Private Consulting Program
• Transfer Admissions
• UC Transfer Admissions
• Ivy League Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

• Graduate School Admissions
• MBA Admissions

Private Tutoring

• SAT/ACT Tutoring
• AP Exam Tutoring
• Olympiad Training

Research Programs

• Science Research Program
• Humanities Competitions
• Passion Project Program
• Ad Hoc Consulting
• Athletic Recruitment
• National Universities Rankings
• Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings
• Public Schools Rankings

Acceptance Rates

• University Acceptance Rates
• Transfer Acceptance Rates
• Supplemental Essays
• College Admissions Data
• Chances Calculator
• GPA Calculator

National Universities

• College Acceptance Rates
• College Overall Acceptance Rates
• College Regular Acceptance Rates
• College Early Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Overall Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Regular Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Early Acceptance Rates

Public Schools

• Public Schools Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Overall Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Regular Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Early Acceptance Rates

Liberal Arts

• Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Overall Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Regular Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Early Acceptance Rates

20 Writing and Literature Programs for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Writing and literature programs for high school students offer a unique space for young minds to refine their craft.  Hosted by some of the most prestigious institutions and organizations across the United States, these programs are fertile ground for budding writers to flourish.

From the serene campuses of liberal arts colleges to the dynamic online platforms that bring literary instruction into the digital age, each program is designed to meet high school students’ specific needs and aspirations. They provide the tools and techniques necessary for effective writing and a profound understanding of literary traditions and innovations.

As we delve into the details of these programs, we uncover opportunities available to young writers, each offering its unique approach to nurturing talent and fostering a lifelong engagement with the written word.

1. Carleton College Summer Writing Program

• Location : Northfield, MN
• Registration Fee : Approximately $4,500 for 2024.
• Important Dates : Program dates are July 6-26, 2024. Application deadlines for 2024 were in early February and March.
• Eligibility : High school sophomores and juniors.

The Carleton College Summer Writing Program is a distinctive writing and literature program for high school students. Hosted in the serene environment of Northfield, Minnesota, this program is specifically designed for academically motivated sophomores and juniors with a strong inclination toward writing and literature.

The program spans three weeks, typically in July, offering an immersive experience beyond mere classroom learning. It emphasizes a writing process approach, guiding students in composing academic papers akin to college-level writing. This is achieved through engaging literature discussions led by Carleton professors and hands-on writing workshops.

Moreover, the program’s setting on Carleton College’s campus allows students to experience college life firsthand, staying in dormitories and participating in various cultural activities. This aspect of the program enhances the academic experience and offers a glimpse into college life, preparing students for their future educational endeavors. The program’s success is reflected in the feedback from participants, with many reporting a significant increase in their preparedness for college-level studies​​​.

2. Columbia University Creative Writing

• Location : New York, NY
• Registration Fee : Not explicitly mentioned; varies by course and workshop.
• Important Dates : Spring 2024 sessions. Specific dates vary by course.
• Eligibility : High school students with little or no experience writing literary nonfiction or poetry.

Columbia University’s Creative Writing program is a premier writing and literature program for high school students, renowned for its rigorous approach and prestigious setting in New York City.

This program, housed within one of the most esteemed Ivy League universities, offers an array of workshops and courses that cater to young writers with varying levels of experience. The curriculum is designed to foster literary talent in many genres, with specific focus areas such as nonfiction, poetry, and fiction writing.

The program offers opportunities for students to attend guest lectures and readings by accomplished writers. These events inspire and offer insights into the professional writing world, creating a bridge between academic learning and practical application. Columbia University’s Creative Writing program educates young writers, encouraging them to explore and develop their literary talents in a challenging and supportive environment​​​​​.

3. Writer’s Village at Sarah Lawrence College

• Location : Bronxville, NY
• Registration Fee : Information not available in the provided sources.
• Important Dates : Two sessions in 2024: July 10-14 (virtual) and August 7-11 (on campus).
• Eligibility : Students entering 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grades, at least 14 years old at the program’s start.

The Writer’s Village at Sarah Lawrence College is an esteemed writing and literature program for high school students, uniquely designed to cultivate the literary skills of young, aspiring writers.

Located in Bronxville, New York, the program offers an enriching experience that transcends the typical classroom setting. Writer’s Village is specifically tailored for students entering grades 9 through 12 and is well-suited for those passionate about creative writing and the performance arts.

What sets the Writer’s Village apart is its immersive week-long curriculum, which provides students with a blend of creative writing workshops and theatre experiences. The program is structured to encourage a deep exploration of various writing styles, fostering creativity and self-expression among its participants.

The workshops are led by a team of accomplished prose writers, poets, and performance artists, ensuring a high level of mentorship and guidance. Additionally, the program includes mini-workshops conducted by faculty, graduate students, and guest artists, offering various perspectives and techniques.

4. Juniper Institute for Young Writers at UMass Amherst

• Location : Amherst, MA
• Registration Fee : $2,600 for one-week residential; $4,950 for two-week residential; $1,280 for online.
• Important Dates : One-week residential (July 29–August 2, 2024), two-week residential (July 29–August 9, 2024), online (August 5–9, 2024). Application deadline: March 7, 2024.
• Eligibility : Rising sophomores to seniors in high school.

The Juniper Institute for Young Writers at UMass Amherst is a remarkable writing and literature program for high school students, offering a unique combination of creative exploration and intensive writing practice.

Nestled in the inspiring setting of Amherst , Massachusetts, this program is particularly tailored for rising sophomores through seniors in high school, providing an ideal environment for young writers passionate about honing their craft.

An essential aspect of the Juniper Institute is its competitive admission process, focusing on the quality of writing samples and writer’s statements submitted by applicants. This ensures a cohort of dedicated and talented young writers.

5. Tisch Summer High School Dramatic Writing Program at NYU

• Registration Fee : Information not explicitly mentioned.
• Important Dates : Specific dates not provided, but typically include daily sessions Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm.
• Eligibility : High school students interested in writing for theatre, film, and television.

The Tisch Summer High School Dramatic Writing Program at NYU is an illustrious writing and literature program for high school students, uniquely focused on dramatic storytelling. Located in the heart of New York City, a global center for arts and culture, this program offers an unparalleled opportunity for young writers interested in writing for the stage or screen. It is part of the Tisch School of the Arts, renowned for contributing to the arts and performance industries.

This program dives deep into the fundamentals of dramatic structure, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop their plays and screenplays. The curriculum is structured to explore the core principles of dramatic action, the intricate relationship between character and circumstance, and how these elements weave together to create compelling dramatic narratives. Students engage in rigorous writing workshops where their work is reviewed, critiqued, and rewritten, fostering an environment of continuous improvement and creative growth.

6. Bard College Young Writers Workshop @ Simons Rock

• Location : Great Barrington, MA
• Registration Fee : $3,500 (includes tuition, room, and board).
• Important Dates : July 7 to July 27, 2024
• Eligibility : Students who have completed grades 9, 10, or 11.

The Bard College Young Writers Workshop at Simon’s Rock is a dynamic and highly regarded writing and literature program for high school students. Located in the scenic town of Great Barrington, Massachusetts, the workshop offers a unique three-week summer experience for students who have completed grades 9, 10, or 11.

This program stands out for its emphasis on informal, playful, and expressive writing to strengthen language and thinking skills, encouraging students to delve into genres such as poetry, personal narratives, short stories, drama, and creative nonfiction.

One of the distinguishing features of this workshop is its approach to teaching, which is geared towards generating new writing and developing workshop drafts through collaborative small group work. The program’s faculty, comprising experienced teachers and writers associated with the Bard College Institute for Writing and Thinking, are selected for their teaching excellence and deep understanding of the needs of younger writers. This ensures that students receive high-quality instruction and guidance tailored to their development as writers.

7. Creative Writers Workshop at Emerson College

• Location : Boston, MA
• Registration Fee : Workshop Tuition: $4310; Residential Room and Board Fee: $4114; Application Fee: $60.
• Important Dates : July 8 to August 2, 2024
• Eligibility : High school students (exact grade levels not specified)

The Creative Writers Workshop at Emerson College, located in the vibrant city of Boston, is a comprehensive writing and literature program for high school students. This four-week immersive experience, running from July 8 to August 2, 2024, is designed to cultivate the writing skills of young, aspiring writers across various genres. The workshop is characterized by its in-depth curriculum encompassing various creative writing aspects, including fiction, prose, scriptwriting, and performance poetry.

Financially, the workshop is accessible, with tuition set at $4310 and an additional room and board fee for residential students. The program also requires a non-refundable application fee of $60. However, it’s important to note that Emerson College suspended its Summer 2024 Pre-College programming, including the Creative Writers Workshop, to re-envision the experiences of high school students.

8. Georgetown Creative Writing Institute

• Location : Washington, D.C.
• Registration Fee : Residential: $3,389; Commuter: $2,625.
• Important Dates : July 14 to July 20, 2024.
• Eligibility : Current or rising high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior with a 2.0 GPA .

The Georgetown Creative Writing Institute presents a prominent writing and literature program for high school students, nestled in the historic and politically charged environment of Washington, D.C.

This program, scheduled for July 14 to July 20, 2024, offers an enriching week-long experience that aims to transform students’ creative ideas into compelling written works. The institute provides a unique blend of dynamic lectures on various aspects of writing, workshop sessions led by graduate student instructors, and the invaluable opportunity for peer feedback.

A distinctive aspect of this program is its comprehensive coverage of multiple genres, including poetry, fiction, and personal prose. Students participate in workshops and attend readings by published authors, gaining insights into the craft of writing from experienced professionals. The program’s curriculum is meticulously designed to awaken the powers of observation and imagination, teaching concrete elements of writing craft through hands-on experience.

9. Scholastic Art and Writing Competition

• Location : Place varies depending on region.
• Registration Fee : $10 per individual entry; $30 per portfolio.
• Important Dates : Entries open in September; Deadlines vary by region, typically between December and January; National Ceremony in June.
• Eligibility : Students in grades 7–12, age 13 and up, residing in the United States, U.S. territories or military bases, or Canada.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Competition is a prestigious and renowned writing and literature program for high school students. It is celebrated for identifying and nurturing the next generation of great American artists and writers. With a history stretching back to 1923, this program has become a significant milestone in the creative journey of young writers and artists across the United States.

The competition’s structure is regionalized, with students first submitting works to their local community for judging. Award-winning works from these regional events then progress to the national level.

The Gold Medal Art Portfolio is the most notable of these awards, honoring outstanding creativity and skill. Exhibitions showcasing selected awarded works, like the Colorado Scholastic Art & Writing Awards Showcase, are held in various venues, including the Denver Art Museum, which hosted the showcase from February 5 to March 8, 2024.

10. Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference

• Location : Sewanee, TN
• Registration Fee : $2,575
• Important Dates : June 30 – July 13, 2024
• Eligibility : typically for high school students

The Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference, hosted at The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, is a distinguished writing and literature program for high school students. Scheduled from June 30th to July 13th, 2024, this conference provides an idyllic setting for young writers to immerse themselves in the literary world.

The program is unique in its ability to bring together students passionate about creative writing, offering them a chance to read extensively, cultivate their writing, and form a community with fellow young writers.

One of the hallmarks of the Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference is its diverse range of courses, which includes Fiction, Poetry, Literary Nonfiction, Songwriting, and Fantasy/Science Fiction/Fabulism, among others.

This array of genres ensures students can explore and develop their writing skills in the most interesting areas. Moreover, the program includes multiple craft classes taught by Sewanee faculty and special guests, providing students with a rich learning experience. Additionally, meeting with experts in revision and development via Zoom adds an invaluable dimension to the learning process.

11. Summer Advanced Writers Workshop at Susquehanna University

• Location : Selinsgrove, PA
• Details Unavailable : The 2024 Summer Pre-College Program information and registration will be available soon.

The Summer Advanced Writers Workshop at Susquehanna University is a prestigious writing and literature program for high school students. Set on the beautiful campus of Susquehanna University, the program provides an immersive experience for students eager to delve into fiction, poetry, or creative nonfiction.

It’s an opportunity for young writers to live on campus, engage in intensive writing workshops, and receive mentorship from experienced and published authors. The workshop fosters a creative environment where students can focus on honing their craft, exploring different genres, and developing their unique voices as writers. This program enhances writing skills and offers a glimpse into a writer’s life, making it an invaluable experience for aspiring authors.

12. Writing Institute at Washington University in St. Louis

• Location : St. Louis, MO
• Registration Fee : Not specified.
• Important Dates : The program runs in July (exact dates not specified).
• Eligibility : Open to writers of all levels.

The Writing Institute at Washington University in St. Louis is a renowned writing and literature program for high school students, offering a robust curriculum that spans various genres. This program, conducted during the summer, is designed to cater to students from diverse academic backgrounds and interests.

It emphasizes developing strong writing skills essential in higher education and beyond. The Institute’s curriculum includes core courses covering fundamental storytelling elements, complemented by specialized workshops in genres like poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.

Students receive guidance from experienced faculty and have opportunities to interact with guest speakers from the literary world. The program enhances writing abilities and boosts students’ confidence and self-expression, making it a transformative experience for young writers​.

13. Duke University Young Writers Camp

• Location: Durham, NC
• Registration Fee: Not specified.
• Important Dates: Specific dates for sessions are not provided.
• Eligibility: Middle and high school students.

The Duke University Young Writers Camp is a distinguished writing and literature program for high school students designed to cultivate and enhance their writing skills. This camp encourages students to experiment with various writing styles and techniques, fostering their unique voices.

The curriculum balances creative freedom with structured learning, emphasizing the importance of organization and clarity in writing. Mentors who are accomplished authors play a pivotal role, offering personalized feedback and guiding students in refining their skills. The program sharpens writing abilities, builds confidence, and fosters self-expression, making it a holistic experience for young writers​​​.

14. Emerging Writers Institute at UC Berkeley

• Location: Berkeley, CA
• Registration Fee: Varies; for instance, Day Camp is $885 – $1,885, Extended Day Camp is $2,190, and Overnight Camp is $2,650.
• Important Dates: Several sessions in June and July 2024, e.g., at UC Berkeley from June 23 to July 6, 2024.
• Eligibility: For 7th-9th and 10th-12th graders

The Emerging Writers Institute at UC Berkeley offers high school students a comprehensive writing and literature program. This program is structured to nurture young talents in various writing genres.

Through a curriculum that emphasizes expressive writing and critical reading exercises, students are encouraged to find and refine their unique voices. The program includes specialized workshops in different genres, such as short stories, poetry, and nonfiction, alongside sessions with visiting writers.

Experienced faculty members provide invaluable guidance, ensuring students’ creative and technical skills are honed. This institute is an ideal environment for students to explore their writing interests and develop their capabilities in a supportive and stimulating setting​​.

15. Summer Writer’s Workshop at Sarah Lawrence College

• Dates : Virtual session from July 15 to July 19, 2024, and an on-campus session from August 5 to August 9, 2024.
• Registration Fee : Not specified in the sources.

The Summer Writer’s Workshop at Sarah Lawrence College is a prestigious writing and literature program for high school students. It offers a unique opportunity for young writers to immerse themselves in creative writing and performance arts.

Celebrating its twenty-fifth year in 2024, the program is designed to foster creativity, encourage exploration of various literary genres, and develop a deeper understanding of writing. Students from diverse backgrounds can enjoy this enriching experience with virtual and on-campus sessions.

The workshop includes writing and theater workshops led by experienced prose writers, poets, and performance artists. It provides students with a broad spectrum of creative exercises and projects to expand their skills and artistic expression.

The program is tailored for 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th-grade students, ensuring that it caters to a wide age range and skill level. Participants must be at least 14 at the program’s start, allowing for a mature yet diverse cohort of young writers.

16. 37th Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers

• Location : Typically held in Wallowa Lake, Oregon, offering a scenic and inspirational setting.
• Registration Fee : Past workshops like these often have varying fees depending on the type of accommodation and workshop selection.
• Important Dates : Workshops are usually scheduled in the summer, with specific dates varying each year.
• Eligibility : Open to writers of all ages and levels, with some programs specifically designed for high school students or adults.

Summer Fishtrap Gathering of Writers is known for offering enriching writing and literature programs that cater to individuals across different age groups, including high school students. Such programs typically immerse participants in a creative environment, encouraging them to explore various writing genres, from poetry and fiction to nonfiction.

In workshops and seminars led by experienced writers and educators, students often have the opportunity to develop their writing skills, receive feedback on their work, and engage in meaningful discussions about literature and the writing process. The picturesque and tranquil settings where these gatherings are usually held also provide a perfect backdrop for inspiration and creativity.

17. Yale Young Writers’ Workshop

• Location : Conducted by Yale University, this workshop may offer both on-campus and online options to accommodate participants from various locations.
• Registration Fee : Fees can vary based on the program length and format (residential vs. online).
• Important Dates : These workshops are typically held in the summer, with application deadlines often set in the spring.
• Eligibility : High school students passionate about writing, usually from grades 9 through 12, are the primary audience for these workshops.

Yale Young Writers’ Workshop is widely recognized as a prestigious writing and literature program for high school students. It is typically hosted by Yale University, one of the world’s leading institutions of higher learning, renowned for its commitment to excellence in education and the arts.

In addition to honing their writing skills, students attending the Yale Young Writers’ Workshop benefit from the inspiring academic environment of Yale University. The program focuses on improving writing abilities and aims to foster a love of literature, critical thinking, and the confidence to pursue creative endeavors.

The workshop provides an invaluable platform for young writers to grow both personally and artistically, making it a highly sought-after program for high school students interested in developing their writing to a higher level.

18. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

• Location : Iowa City, IA
• Dates : Session 1: June 16-29, 2024; Session 2: July 14-27, 2024.
• Registration Fee : $475 for online courses; the fee for the residential program was not specified.
• Eligibility : High school students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for online courses; specific eligibility for the residential program needed to be more detailed.

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is a distinguished writing and literature program for high school students, fostering a nurturing environment where young talents can flourish. Hosted by the University of Iowa, known for its prestigious Writers’ Workshop, this program invites students to delve into the intricacies of creative writing, offering residential and online courses catering to aspiring writers’ diverse needs.

With sessions running from mid-January to late February for the winter course and a summer session from late June to early August, the studio allows students to engage with their passion for writing throughout the year.

Participants in the Iowa Young Writers’ Studio can explore various genres, including poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, under the guidance of experienced instructors and mentors who are often graduates of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop.

This program is not just about improving writing skills; it’s about inspiring a deep-seated love for writing and encouraging students to experiment with their voice and style in a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

19. Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop

• Location : Gambier, OH
• Dates : Summer Residential: June 23-July 6, 2024, and July 14-27, 2024; Summer Online: June 16-21, 2024.
• Registration Fee : $2,575 for the residential program and $995 for the online workshop.
• Eligibility : High school students aged 16-18 and recent graduates. International students and previous participants of the Young Writers online workshops are also welcome.

The Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop is an acclaimed writing and literature program for high school students. It offers an immersive experience to sharpen their writing skills and deepen their appreciation for literary arts.

Hosted at Kenyon College, a renowned liberal arts institution with a rich literary tradition, the program features two sessions in the summer of 2024, from June 23 to July 6 and July 14 to 27. This workshop provides a dynamic environment where students engage in generative writing exercises across various genres, including poetry, short stories, and essays.

With a registration fee of $2,575 and a policy of no application fee, the workshop emphasizes accessibility, offering need-based financial aid to ensure passionate young writers can attend regardless of financial circumstances.

Applicants are selected based on a 300-word personal statement, a high school transcript, and a letter of recommendation highlighting the program’s commitment to fostering a diverse and talented group of young writers.

20. Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference (Middlebury College)

• Location : Middlebury’s Bread Loaf campus in the Green Mountains, Vermont.
• Dates : August 14-24, 2024.
• Registration Fee : The specific registration fee 2024 was not detailed in the sources. However, Bread Loaf typically offers financial aid, making it accessible to many writers.
• Eligibility : The conference is open to emerging writers who work closely with a diverse and talented faculty. Financial aid is available for both published and unpublished writers.

The Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference at Middlebury College is an esteemed writing and literature program that has established itself as a significant destination for writers from various stages of their careers, including high school students passionate about writing.

Scheduled to take place from August 14 to 24, 2024, at Middlebury’s Bread Loaf campus in the picturesque Green Mountains of Vermont, the conference offers an ideal environment for creative exploration and literary discourse.

The conference is known for its small-group workshop model, a cornerstone of its educational approach. Each workshop, led by notable faculty members among the world’s most distinguished writers and translators, is limited to ten writers. This setting fosters intimate discussions, allowing participants to delve deeply into their craft while receiving personalized attention and feedback.

Apart from workshops, the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference features enriching activities, including faculty and guest readings, lectures on literary writing, and classes on specific aspects of the craft. These sessions are designed to provide a comprehensive literary experience, enhancing participants’ understanding of the art and the writing industry.

In conclusion, writing and literature programs for high school students are more than just summer camps or extracurricular activities; they are gateways to personal growth, artistic development, and academic exploration.

Through workshops, seminars, and immersive experiences, students are challenged to push the boundaries of their creativity, engage critically with the world around them, and articulate their thoughts with clarity and conviction.

The skills and insights gained from these programs extend far beyond the page, preparing students for success in various fields and endeavors. Whether aspiring to become published authors, influential journalists, or innovative thinkers, participants in these programs step into a world where their voices matter and their stories can make a difference. Each word written and shared idea contributes to the ongoing conversation that shapes our culture and understanding of the human experience.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education

Top Extracurricular Activities for Ivy Leagues

Where is Boston University Located?

Top 10 Undergraduate Business Programs

Where is Claremont McKenna Located?

Ivy League Rankings 2024

10 Humanities Programs for High School Students

Where is Georgia Tech located?

How to Qualify for National Merit Semifinalist 2025

Where Is Harvey Mudd Located?

Where is the University of Virginia located?

Where is Wake Forest located?

Where is the University of Michigan located?

How to Update Caltech After Submitting Your Application

How to Update Yale After Submitting Your Application

What Are the Score Choice Policies at Top 50 Universities?

How to update mit after submitting your application.

Where is Carnegie Mellon University located?

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

Top Extracurricular Activities for Ivy...

10 Humanities Programs for High...

How to Qualify for National...

Where is the University of...

Sign up now to receive insights on how to navigate the college admissions process.

Admissions Counseling

• Academic & Extracurricular Profile Evaluation

Copyright © AdmissionSight 2024

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

Great Summer Creative Writing Programs for High School Students

Immersive Summer Programs for Budding Writers

Summer is a terrific time for aspiring writers to focus on creative writing . Immersive programs give high schoolers the opportunity to develop writing skills, meet like-minded students, and gain an impressive line on their activities resumé. This list of excellent summer creative writing programs for high school students may offer just what the budding writers in your family need to make the most of their talents.

Emerson College Creative Writers Workshop

Emerson’s Creative Writers Workshop is a five-week program for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors geared at developing their writing skills in a variety of media, including fiction, poetry, screenwriting, graphic novels, and magazine writing. Participants attend college-level writing classes exploring these genres in which they write and present their own work, create a final portfolio of their writing, contribute to the workshop’s anthology, and present a reading for family and friends. On-campus housing is available for the duration of the workshop.

Alfred University Creative Writing Camp

This summer writing program introduces rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to many different genres, including poetry, short fiction, creative non-fiction, and drama. Students read and discuss the work of established authors and participate in writing-intensive exercises and workshop sessions led by Alfred University faculty members. Campers stay in university housing and enjoy a variety of recreational activities outside of classes and workshops such as movie nights, games, and social gatherings. The program runs annually for five days at the end of June.

Sarah Lawrence College Summer Writers Workshop for High School Students

This program is a one-week, non-residential summer workshop for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors that explores the process of creative writing in a non-competitive, non-judgmental environment. Participants have the opportunity to attend small writing and theater workshops led by faculty and guest writers and theater artists, as well as attend and participate in readings. Classes are limited to 15 students with three faculty leaders per workshop to provide individual attention for each student.

Sewanee Young Writers Conference

This two-week residential program offered by The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, provides dedicated rising high school sophomore, junior, and senior creative writers an opportunity to develop and polish their writing skills. The conference includes workshops in playwriting, fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction led by celebrated professional writers as well as visiting writers whose works students analyze and discuss. Participants select one writing genre and spend their two weeks attending a small workshop dedicated to that genre, with opportunities for one-on-one contact with workshop leaders. Students also participate in lectures, readings, and discussions.

Emerging Writers Institute Creative Writing Camp

Allen Grove

Education Unlimited offers the Emerging Writers Institute creative writing camp each summer at Yale University , Stanford University , and UC Berkeley . This two-week residential program for rising 10th-12th graders includes daily workshops, evaluations, peer editing groups, and creative presentations designed to encourage students to challenge themselves as writers and hone their expressive writing process.

Each student chooses to major in the writing of either short stories, poetry, playwriting, or nonfiction. The bulk of their critical reading and writing exercises and workshopping is devoted to their selected major. Students may also attend afternoon workshops on nontraditional genres such as speechwriting, graphic novels, and advertising copy, as well as guest presentations by local authors and publishers.

Iowa Young Writers' Studio

The University of Iowa offers this two-week summer creative writing program for rising juniors, seniors, and college freshmen. Students choose one of three core courses in poetry, fiction, or creative writing (a more general course sampling from poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction). Within their course, they participate in seminar classes in which they read and analyze literary selections and workshops to create, share, and discuss their own writing. Also offered are large group writing exercises, inspirational outdoor writing excursions, and nightly readings by prominent published writers. Many of the program's teachers and counselors are graduates of the university's Iowa Writers' Workshop, one of the most prestigious creative writing graduate programs in the country.

• Great Summer Theater Programs for High School Students
• Great Summer Engineering Programs for High School Students
• Great Summer Dance Programs for High School Students
• Summer Science Programs for High School Students
• Great Summer Political Science Programs for High School Students
• Great Summer Leadership Programs for High School Students
• Summer Astronomy Programs for High School Students
• Great Summer Music Programs for High School Students
• Exciting Summer Camp Opportunities at the Best Private Schools
• High School English Curricula Explained
• What Is an MFA Degree?
• English Major: Courses, Jobs, Salaries
• 6 Great Story Contests for Kids
• 12 Best Economics Schools for Undergraduates
• Best Political Science Schools in the U.S.
• The Basic Characteristics of Effective Writing

• Best Colleges
• Application Advice

• Summer Programs

The Best Writing Summer Programs for High School Students

Writing may be a lonely craft, but it is certainly not something that is learned in isolation. 

The best way to improve a student’s writing is to become part of a writing community where constructive feedback and encouragement can help them be the best writer they can be. 

Thankfully, many institutions and universities offer the opportunity to be part of a writing community through their summer programs. 

Many summer programs not only have students work with gifted university faculty, but they also bring students face to face with some of their favorite authors. 

The following list of programs are among the best for a number of different reasons. Some are the best value, and others because of the unique program focuses they offer. But each brings a unique take on training young people in the craft of writing. 

Regardless of why they are the best, each of these writing summer programs offers students a wide range of experience, opportunities, and support in becoming writers of the future. 

BYU’s Young Authors Academy (Provo, UT)

BYU is known for its close association with the LDS church, which brings its commitment to service and community to the university in all areas of academic life. 

As a result, the university has a thriving Young Authors Academy program that middle and high school students can take advantage of during the summer. 

This week-long program allows students to live on the BYU campus, get training from BYU professors, and even meet and speak directly to guest authors. 

Though students don’t have to stay on campus, it can be an enriching experience to live like a BYU student for a week. 

Parents may feel hesitant about their child living like a college student. BYU’s code of conduct makes the Young Authors Academy program one that parents can trust to promote a wholesome and age-appropriate environment. 

Lewis and Clark Fir Acres Writing Workshop (Portland, OR)

Lewis and Clarks’ Fir Acres Writing Workshop takes this spirit of adventure into the realm of writing and guides high school students through a two-week community writing experience. 

Students will strengthen their reading and writing skills with the help of expert faculty while communing with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. 

In addition to living on the beautiful campus, students will get a chance to wander the creative downtown of Portland. 

As students walk the city streets, they will be walking in the footsteps of authors who made Portland home like Ursula Le Guin, Beverly Cleary, and Chuck Palahniuk. 

Lastly, a visit to Portland would be incomplete without a trip to one of the famous Portland spots – Powell’s Bookstore! 

With trips to the city, writing workshops, and wandering the campus, students will have a summer adventure they will think about for years to come at the Fir Acres Writing Workshop. 

LMU’s Pre-College Beginning Screenwriting (Los Angeles, CA)

Loyola Marymount University is known for being one of the top film schools in the US, which is little surprise with it being located in the heart of the entertainment capital. 

Students attending LMU will be in good company with alumni like X-Files co-writer James Wong and James Bond franchise producer Barbara Broccoli.

With this film school backdrop, LMU offers a unique opportunity to young writers who have a passion for the movies – Beginning Screenwriting. 

Students will spend two weeks working closely with faculty screenwriters who have written award-winning movies and tv series. 

By the end of the workshop, students will have developed their storytelling skills, learned to write in a collaborative environment, and have produced a short screenplay of their own making. 

In addition to learning how to write screenplays, students will also have the opportunity to explore the behind-the-scenes process of filmmaking by visiting a local tv or film studio. At LMU, students learn to become writers who can create the magic of movies and tv. 

Iowa Young Writers’ Studio (Iowa City, IA)

The University of Iowa knows a thing or two about excellence, particularly in writing. Out of this excellent writing program is the Young Writers’ Studio. 

High school students will attend the studio for two weeks, focusing on a core writing genre. Through the two weeks, students will be able to work collaboratively with their peers, listen to published authors discuss the craft, and explore areas of writing they haven’t before. 

Iowa has drawn writers since the university’s Writers’ Workshop was established in the 1930s and has a long and successful history of training aspiring authors. 

As a result, Iowa City is known for being the place to be if you are a writer. High school students who want to join the writer’s life will be following a long tradition of writing excellence by joining Iowa’s Young Writers’ Studio . 

Wharton Center’s Young Playwrights Festival (East Lansing, MI)

Though this opportunity is limited to Michigan students, it deserves recognition on the list because of the fantastic opportunity it provides aspiring playwrights. 

The Young Playwrights Festival is hosted by the Wharton Center, which hosts a wide range of live entertainment from plays to concerts. 

The Wharton Center and the MSU theater department work together to hold the annual Young Playwrights Festival, a unique competition connecting students with mentors. 

This event calls on young playwrights to submit their best script with the expectation that if they win, they will be able to work with MSU playwrights to polish and further develop their script. 

But this opportunity isn’t just about improving a student’s writing – it also results in the student being able to see their work come to life. The festival’s winner will have their polished play performed by the MSU theater department on the Wharton Center stage! 

Georgetown’s Creative Writing Academy (Washington, DC)

Georgetown in D.C has a rich pre-college program for high school students looking to prepare themselves for higher education and a career. The university offers students the option to choose from over 20 possible “academies” to attend over 1-3 week periods of time during the summer. 

For writers, the 1-week Creative Writing Academy offers high schoolers the chance to not only polish their skills, but also to learn what it takes to be a professional writer. 

Students will get the chance to work with advisors to find publishing areas for their writing, gain advice on what higher education programs to pursue, and discover how to find funding for writing projects. 

By the end of the program, students will even get the opportunity to publish their work. Georgetown’s literary magazine, Three Stars, features student work annually. A credential like this will look great on a student’s growing portfolio and resume. 

UF’s Summer Media Institute (Gainsville, FL)

Ranked number 5 for being a “Top Public School” in the US by US News and Word Report, and known for being one of the most extensive journalism and communications programs in the US, the University of Florida has a special opportunity to offer students who want to pursue writing in media. 

The Summer Media Institute is a 6-day workshop that draws students from all over. This program is different from the others on this list because it doesn’t require an application process. 

Instead, the program is based on a first-come, first-serve registration process that closes once the student limit is reached. 

Students attending the Summer Media Institute will learn the many different elements of storytelling in the real world. From getting to experience a newsroom to learning to build a story out of data, at UF students will learn that the writing process goes far beyond just writing words on a page.

Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference (Sewanee, TN)

The University of The South, as Sewanee is called, is one of the more picturesque locations on the list. 

Located on 13,000 acres that the university calls the Domain, students who live at and attend the university have the beauty of Tennessee right outside their door. 

This is an integral part of student life, as high schoolers will discover when they come to participate in the Sewanee’s Young Writers’ Conference. 

In addition to writing, reading, discussing, and meeting guest authors, part of the experience is also getting to experience the beauty of the Domain. 

Students who are taking a break from coursework can be found hiking the surrounding trails or going for a swim in nearby Fiery Gizzard. 

One unique feature of this program is a reading list students will need to finish before coming. 

A good writer is a reader, so students who are accepted will get to read the books of that summer’s guest authors. 

This reading will come in handy later when students hear the guest author discuss their work and offer advice for students in their own writing process. 

Being a writer means finding a workspace that inspires and reduces distractions. Students will discover that Sewanee offers both.

Princeton Summer Journalism Program (Princeton, NJ)

Princeton’s reputation reaches far and wide, making its Journalism Program the envy of Summer Programs. 

It is no wonder that students are shocked to find out that the program is free. Even better, the program is free for those who wouldn’t traditionally be able to afford a summer program, let alone an ivy league program. 

Princeton offers students from under-resourced backgrounds a full-ride opportunity to attend their 10-day Summer Journalism Program . Students whose families meet the income requirements and who are in good academic standing at their high school are eligible to go through the application process. 

The program’s goal to create more opportunities in newsrooms for those who wouldn’t usually be able to afford the training includes helping students understand the college application process. 

After a student leaves the program, they will be assigned a Princeton counselor that will assist them through all parts of the college application process no matter where they choose to attend. 

This opportunity is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of situation. Students who meet the criteria will thank themselves for investing the time and effort to attend this life-changing program. 

Susquehanna’s Writers’ Workshop (Selinsgrove, PA)

Susquehanna University is known for its commitment to being a green campus, an affordable private university, and producing students who excel. In the last nine years alone, the school has had 12 Fulbright winners and, more recently, has been awarded the STARS Silver accolade for its environmental efforts. 

The university is also known for its Writers’ Workshop . Students who attend the week-long workshop will work with talented faculty like Hasanthika Sirisena , who has won the Juniper Literary Prize for her fiction. Students will also be able to work with Monica Prince , whose “choreopoems” are studied around the US. 

The Writers’ Workshop allows students to immerse themselves in their writing craft to produce works they can take with them. 

But before they leave with their work, students will get the chance to showcase their hard work in two different ways. Students will be able to perform their pieces for their friends and family at the end of the workshop and then publish their compositions in the SWW Anthology . 

Talented faculty, an environmentally friendly campus, and talented peers – these are the makings of a great summer writing program experience. 

Related Posts

During the school year, it can feel like so few hours in the day.  Whether…

For some high schoolers, summer is a time to take a break from studies.  After…

If you are a current high school student with a passion for dance, you may…

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Best Basketball Summer Programs for High School Students

Best Robotics Summer Programs for High School Students

The Best Ivy league Summer Programs for High School Students

The Best Animation Summer Programs for High School Students

The Best Data Science Summer Programs for High School Students

The Best Fashion Summer Programs for High School Students

POPULAR POSTS

The 10 Best Marine Biology Colleges in the US

Here Are the 10 Best Optometry Schools in the US

Here Are the 10 Best Dental Schools in the US

Popular category.

• Acceptance Rates 253
• Hidden Gem Colleges 81
• Medical Schools 76
• Ivy League Schools 62
• Law Schools 49
• Performing Arts 45
• Art Schools 42
• Health Sciences 40
• Summer Programs 39
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy

Try searching for

• Concerts and Events
• Employment / Jobs
• Faculty and Staff

Creative Writing Summer Program for High School Students

Why Take Creative Writing

Develop and amplify your writing voice in our immersive program. Guided by an outstanding faculty of published writers, you will experiment with multiple genres, deepen your understanding of the craft, and cultivate the confidence to share your work with the world.

What You'll Learn

During Interlochen's writing camp , you’ll focus intensively on two genres of creative writing. Genre workshops include: 

• Playwriting

In addition to exploring the fundamentals of your chosen genres, you'll discuss a wide range of published works, and craft your own pieces via in-class exercises and roundtable workshops with a class of dedicated peers. You’ll also experience the natural beauty of Northern Michigan via our Environmental Explorations class, attend readings by award-winning faculty and visiting authors, and learn to craft your work for publication and performance. Each session culminates in a camp anthology and student reading. 

Workshop Placement

Students benefit from exposure to a broad range of literary forms. By studying forms outside of your primary genre, you’ll gain new insight into the styles you love most. 

After enrolling, students rank the four genres in order of preference. We’ll do our best to accommodate the top two choices, however, space is limited. We encourage students to submit preferences as soon as possible!

Portfolio Requirements

• SESSION 1: June 23, 2024 to July 13, 2024
• SESSION 2: July 14, 2024 to August 4, 2024
• SESSION 1: Applications CLOSED
• SESSION 2: Applications CLOSED

Program Specialties

Fiction Workshop

Learn the fundamentals of narrative craft in addition to cutting-edge experimental techniques being used by contemporary fiction writers. Focus on the fundamental elements of writing short stories. You will explore story structure, point of view, characterization, plot development, setting, dialogue, and revision strategies.

Nonfiction Workshop

Survey a variety of subgenres in the the nonfiction mode, particularly lyric and hybrid essays. Studies in structure, point of view, characterization, temporality, setting, revision strategies, and the subversion of genre conventions and received voices will give students the flexibility to adapt to a wide range of nonfiction genres.

Poetry Workshop

Explore the fundamentals and contemporary techniques of poetic craft in the lyric, narrative, and dramatic modes, with particular attention given to imagery, voice, musicality, lineation, and forms—both received and invented.

Playwriting Workshop

Focus on character creation and dramatic structure. You will write scenes exploring conflict, action, dialogue, motivation, and stage directions while workshopping a scene in class.

"For me, writing feels like a release."

Learn more about Nailah's experience as a Creative Writing high school student at Arts Camp. 

Meet the Faculty

Our creative writing instructors are committed educators and accomplished artists with extensive experience in their disciplines. As mentors, they are dedicated to helping you develop your own unique voice.

Please note the gallery may showcase previous instructors.

All faculty

Megan Baxter

Instructor of Creative Writing

Reina Hardy

AM Ringwalt

Visiting Instructor of Creative Writing

Emily Pittinos

Heather Truett

Instructor of Fiction

Karyna McGlynn, Ph.D.

Director of Creative Writing

Program Highlights

Reading Showcase

The students will participate in a reading showcase in The Writing House Great Room at the end of the program.

Students contribute work to a print anthology that they can take home at the end of their session to remind them of a productive and inspiring summer.

The Writing House

During the three-week sessions, your artistic home will be the The Writing House. This comfortable space provides quiet work areas, ample seating for group projects, and a literary publications room with computer and printing stations. Take a 360-degree virtual tour .

Additional Opportunities

We have additional camp program opportunities for young writers, including our one-week Comics & Graphic Narratives , Performance Writing & Spoken Word , Novel Writing , and Screenwriting intensives.

Interlochen is also home to the Arts Academy boarding high school, which offers a Creative Writing major, as well as a post-graduate year.

Guest Artists

• Aja Gabel, author of The Ensemble
• Kaitlyn Greenidge, Harper's Bizarre features director and author of We Love You, Charlie Freeman
• Lily Hoang, associate professor of literature at University of California San Diego and author of Changing and A Bestiary
• Caitlin Horrocks, professor of creative writing at Grand Valley State University and author of Life Among the Terranauts and This is Not Your City
• Amy Kurzweil, The New Yorker cartoonist and author of Flying Couch
• Sarah Elaine Smith, author of Marilou is Everywhere and I Live in a Hut

This experience at Interlochen has been truly inspiring. I have seen and met so many people who have inspired me to continue with my own writing and explore other creative outlets like drawing and painting. The arts program at my own school is underfunded, so coming here has helped me really immerse myself in the arts.

Alexandra, Creative Writing

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

Creative Writing Opportunities for High School Students

Do you have a plan for applying to college?

With our free chancing engine, admissions timeline, and personalized recommendations, our free guidance platform gives you a clear idea of what you need to be doing right now and in the future.

If you’re a high school student interested in creative writing, you may or may not have a number of broad extracurricular options to pursue during the school year, depending on your school. You might be a part of your school’s literary magazine, or participate in creative writing workshops. Maybe you are lucky enough to attend a school with dedicated creative writing classes or poetry electives.

But what if your school doesn’t seem to offer much for students who want to pursue creative writing? Or what if you don’t even know where to begin looking? How can you keep your momentum headed towards your goal or otherwise use your time productively if you passionate about creative writing?

There are many activities available to high school students who enjoy creative writing. Some might be available through your school, but many are out there waiting for you to pursue them independently.

In this post, we’ll outline how you can take the initiative to pursue multiple creative writing opportunities both in and out of school. Keep reading to learn more about what opportunities are out there for high school-aged creative writers.

Why Pursue Creative Writing?

There are many reasons to pursue extracurriculars in general. They can serve to strengthen your academic profile, they allow you to pursue interests not otherwise available through traditional classwork, and they can provide valuable, real-world experience.

Creative writing is an extracurricular that is closely tied with your academic coursework in English and Language Arts and in fact is probably a partial requirement of at least some of your English classes. Pursuing it further exemplifies your commitment to the craft and gives you some insight into writing as a possible career path.

It might be easy to think of creative writing as nothing more than a hobby, but in reality many careers exist in which strong writing skills are coveted. By pursuing creative writing, you become well equipped for a career as not only an author or poet, but also in many other fields. We’ll discuss these more in depth at the end of this post.

Opportunities to Pursue Creative Writing

Literary magazine:.

This is the most obvious and most common way to study and produce creative writing in a formal setting at school. Many schools already have a literary magazine established and likely have regular meetings and a faculty adviser equipped to lend insight and advice.

You can usually join your school’s literary magazine at the beginning of a new school year, though you may also be able to join mid-year in some circumstances. Contact the editor or faculty advisor if you want to become involved. Over time you may even be able to take on a leadership role yourself. To learn more about the importance of this, check out CollegeVine’s Your Resume, Revamped: Securing Leadership Positions and Perfecting Your Extracurricular Profile . 

Another way to be involved with the literary magazine, even if you aren’t a part of its team, is to become a regular contributor. This isn’t always easy; some schools have highly competitive literary magazines or only produce one printed edition per year. If this is the case at your school, don’t get discouraged. Submit your best work, learn from feedback, and keep trying.

If your school does not have a literary magazine, you might consider starting one. Begin by talking to other students who have expressed interest in creative writing. Once you have a strong group of interested students, approach a member of your school’s faculty who would make a good adviser.

Your faculty adviser should be someone who has worked closely with you in the past and has some level of expertise in creative writing. Be clear what sort of commitment you are asking for from this person. You may need him or her to be present at every meeting, or you might simply need his or her signature and sporadic stamp of approval. Also remember that you will have some associated costs so having a faculty adviser who can help with fundraising could be important.

Literary magazines provide students interested in creative writing with some general insights into a formal writing publication, a glimpse at the process for submitting work and receiving feedback, and the opportunity to have their writing published for all to see.

Creative Writing Club:

If your school does not have a literary magazine or you are interested in pursuing creative writing in a less formal setting, a creative writing club might be a good bet for you.

These clubs generally operate as regular writing workshops during which students respond to prompts or practice free-writing, and then share their work and offer feedback to others. It is often similar to the submissions approval process at a literary magazine without the stress of possible rejection.

In addition, a creative writing club does not generally produce a publication, though some might print a collection of work at the end of the school year. Again, this differs from the traditional literary magazine because work is selected by the author rather than submitted for acceptance or rejection.

If your school does not have a creative writing club, it is easy to start one. Because there is no associated publication as in the case of a literary magazine, the process is generally less formal. You could meet before or after school and sometimes you don’t even need a faculty adviser; you just need a teacher who’s willing to share classroom space outside of school hours.

Alternatively, you could form a writing club that is completely independent of your school by meeting at the library or a friend’s house. Simply gather creative writing exercises from books or online searches and then gather on a regular basis to respond to them, share work, and offer constructive criticism.

A creative writing club can also be an important accountability tool for students who are working on independent creative writing projects. If you’re writing a longer piece or even a novel, or working on a collection of poetry, meeting regularly with like-minded writers can help to keep you on track and provide outside feedback that might otherwise be unavailable.

Creative Writing Tutor:

If creative writing is your passion and you want to share it with others, you might consider becoming a creative writing tutor for younger students.

Contact a local elementary school and ask if you might be able to volunteer. If so, arrive prepared to lead a small writer’s workshop. Bring any handouts you might need and practice your oral presentation ahead of time. If you need some inspiration for activities, check out the Creative Writing for Children page at PBS parents or the Story Starters page at Scholastic . These kid-friendly writing prompts are sure to inspire even the youngest authors.

If you can’t find a volunteer position at an elementary school, you could try reaching out to other local organizations. Girl or boy scout troops, community centers, or the local library are all possibilities.

Leading a creative writing group for younger students is a great way to hone your own thinking about creative writing, to practice your teaching and leadership skills, and to give back to your community.

Discover your chances at hundreds of schools

Our free chancing engine takes into account your history, background, test scores, and extracurricular activities to show you your real chances of admission—and how to improve them.

Writing Contests:

If you’re looking for more direction for your writing, and the idea of fame and fortune intrigues you, you should consider entering some writing contests. There are many to choose from, and most offer either cash prizes or scholarship money. Some are also quite prestigious.

For a list of some of the most respected writing contests open to high schoolers, check out The CollegeVine Ultimate Guide to High School Writing Contests .

Summer Programs:

As is now the case for most extracurriculars, there are many strong summer programs to choose from if you’d like to pursue creative writing during your school break. These programs can be competitive to get into and you will usually be required to submit a writing portfolio as a part of your application.

Programs such as these also strengthen your college application and reinforce your commitment to writing. A few of the strongest are:

• Interlochen
• Kenyon Review Young Writer’s Workshop
• California State Summer School for the Arts (Primarily for California residents, but a small number of non-residents are accepted each year.)

Many of these programs have scholarships available, so if finances are a concern, be sure to research a few options before ruling anything out.

In addition, many colleges offer summer programs in creative writing as well. These are usually similar in format to any of the aforementioned summer programs, with the added bonus of allowing you to build connections at colleges or universities that you might wish to attend. 

See if any schools on your list of potential colleges or universities offer summer programs and look into attending those. Otherwise, consider one of the following, which are known for their high quality instruction:

• Duke Young Writer’s Camp
• Carleton College Summer Writing Program
• Stanford Summer Institutes
• Lewis and Clark Fir Acres Workshop
• University of Iowa Young Writer’s Studio

Start a Blog

If you find that you are writing often but have nowhere to showcase your work or have trouble holding yourself accountable for producing work on a regular basis, starting your own blog might be a good fit. A blog is a great way to share your writing on a public platform, it can act as an informal portfolio of your work, and it helps to hold you accountable to a larger audience.

Many blogs are easily set up and hosted for free on websites such as WordPress , Blogger , LiveJournal , or Weebly . Share a link to your blog on your social media accounts or send out a group email to let friends and family know about it. As is the case any time you add to your online presence, be sure to discuss your plans with a parent or guardian ahead of time. 

Get Published Elsewhere

A blog isn’t the only platform for publishing your work. Many magazines and periodicals accept submissions from high school students. A long list of publications reviewing high school submissions can be found in the NewPages Young Authors’ Guide . 

You can also check with local publications like newspapers, smaller regional magazines, or even blogs you follow that might accept a guest post.

There are a myriad of ways to get your work to a bigger audience, and if that’s something you’re interested in doing, don’t be shy about asking or even sending unsolicited submissions. All it takes is one person to take a chance on you before you can call yourself a published author.

Career Aspirations for the Creative Writer

It’s easy to think of creative writing as the entry point to becoming a novelist or poet. You might even think that these are your only long-term career options should you choose to pursue creative writing seriously.

This is definitely not the case. Many, many career paths incorporate writing, and while you may not be writing fictional works the entire time, that does not mean that you won’t be incorporating your background in creative writing. All strong writing benefits from creativity.

Writers are especially valued in the fields of:

• Advertising
• American Literature
• Digital Media
• Educational and Instructional Technology
• Media Studies
• Public Relations
• Radio and Television
• Sports Communications
• Technical and Business Writing
• Webpage and Multimedia Design    

Remember, pursuing creative writing doesn’t necessarily mean you have to write a novel or publish a collection of poetry. Writers have valuable skills that can be applied broadly depending on their others skills and interests.

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

• DMCA Removal
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

10 Best Summer Writing Programs for High School Students [2023]

Do you need an outstanding website just like this? Get Started

Find and apply to scholarships, grants, and career funding Get Started

Understanding the basics of writing is hugely affected by the rapid growth of technology, and there is great summer writing programs for high school students that can help you improve your writing skill.

A large number of these programs are sponsored by high schools in order to monitor how students spend their summer vacation

Read on to learn about the best summer writing programs for high school students.

Table Of Contents

Why Take Summer Writing Programs?

Summer writing programs for high school students are led by school personnel who provide composing workshops, peer criticism, and proposal projects.

Poetry, fiction, non-fiction, playwriting, songwriting, and technical writing classes are available to these high school students.

As the spread of the written word expands with the expansion of the Internet, having a fundamental understanding of how to write to illuminate and convince has never been more important.

Most of these programs are currently looking for intelligent high school students who can participate and earn impressive grades while applying to colleges.

Surprisingly, these programs are interactive, entertaining, and, of course, keep your thinking ability active.

How Much Do Summer Writing Programs for High School Students Cost? 

The prices for each of the summer writing programs organized by various academic institutions differ noticeably.

A variety of factors can also influence how much you pay for any program that interests you. The price, on the other hand, ranges from $2,576 to $8,596.

When is the Best Period to Apply for Summer Writing Program?

Summer, it appears, begins in June and ends in September.

As a result, it is imperative that you pay for the summer writing programs as soon as possible in order to secure your spot before the deadline of May 17, 2021.

It is important to note that the fees must be paid within two weeks of acceptance or your spot in the program will be forfeited.

10 Best Summer Writing Programs for High School Students

The list of the best summer writing programs for high school students will provide students with choice, particularly those who are new to writing.

1. Alfred University Creative Writing Camp

This summer writing program for high school students is one that introduces high school students to the several aspects of writing that they need to know.

Here, these students get the opportunity to see works belonging to other authors after which they participate in deep writing exercises.

These sessions are primarily led by faculty members from the prestigious Alfred University.

2. Sarah Lawrence College Summer Writers Workshop for High School Students

This is a one-week program designed specifically for high school students who, at some point, want to explore writing in its entirety.

It is limited to 15 students so that they can receive all of the attention they require from their tutors. If you enjoy doing creative writing in a non-judgmental setting, this summer program is for you.

3. Emerson College Creative Writers Workshop

Emerson’s summer writing program is designed to help high school students hone their writing skills in a variety of genres.

These high school students are allowed to actively participate in writing classes and then present their work to the program’s hosts.

It lasts five weeks and includes on-campus housing for participants. While these high school students have a way of building themselves, they are promised a fun-filled time throughout the program.

4. Emerging Writers Institute Creative Writing Camp

Every summer, young writers are given the opportunity to participate in writing camps at Yale University, Stanford University, and UC Berkeley, respectively.

This 14-day residential program is primarily for 10th and 12th graders and includes creative presentations, peer editing groups, and other creative activities to make the experience more enjoyable for the participants.

When high school student decides to major in a specific type of writing, they devote themselves to it throughout the summer writing program.

5. Sewanee Young Writers Conference

Summer writing programs that could benefit high school students in areas such as Sewanee and Tennessee are available to them.

This young writers conference features workshops led by writing professionals in poetry, fiction, playwriting, and creative nonfiction.

These high school students spend two weeks building relationships with one another that will last beyond the summer program.

6. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

This is just one of the many excellent summer writing programs available to high school students. To participate, you must choose the genre of writing that most interests you and focus on it for the two weeks you will be camping.

Surprisingly, the teachers on this program are well-known graduates of the most prestigious creative writing graduate programs.

7. Summer at Georgetown Creative Writing Institute

This is just one of the many excellent summer writing programs available to high school students.

To participate, you must choose the genre of writing that most interests you and focus on it for the two weeks you will be camping.

8. Boston College Summer Challenge: Creative Writing Seminar

High school students who enjoy writing about anything should consider enrolling in Boston College’s summer program.

It is a three-week summer program in which new writers explore their writing strengths through discussion forums and receive feedback.

You will collaborate with other high school students to present your works at a public reading at the end of the program.

You can spend up to $4,500 on residential accommodations, or you can spend as little as $2,500 if you stay close to the summer writing program’s location.

Read also: Teacher Appreciation Day 2022: 50 Nice Things To Say To Your Teacher

9. Creative Writing Institute at Washington University in St. Louis

Every year, Washington University hosts a two-week creative writing summer program for high school students.

Students in this program are allowed to work on fiction, nonfiction, and poetry topics.

High school students pay approximately $3,885 for this summer program, which covers tuition, room, and board.

10. Harvard University Pre-College Program

Nothing beats getting a taste of college life right on campus and at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.

This summer writing program for high school students provides you with a variety of interesting topics to write about alongside other high school students from all over the world.

Poetry, fiction, expository writing, and creative writing are among the courses you will take.

A student’s ability to participate in a summer writing program provides an advantage over others because, in addition to honing your writing skills, you must also connect with people who share your goals. This article provides details of the best summer writing programs you can enroll in as a high school student.

Editors Recommendations:

• Highest Paying Summer Jobs for College Students
• What Can I Do With a Master’s in English
• How To Become a Chemistry Major (Step by Step)
• What is a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) Degree?
• What can I Do with an Advertising degree?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent in Students Tips

180+ Basic Japanese Phrases for Complete Beginner

Best Summer Tech Camps in Florida for High School

10 Best TVs for College Students 2023

Cheapest Universities in North Carolina for international students

How to Get HBO Max Student Discount (2024)

25 Best High School Summer Writing Programs in 2024

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 6/25/24

Do you love reading and writing? If you are a creative with a love for reading books and have a passion for creative writing, playwriting, or journalism, check out these summer writing programs for high school students.

Every summer, several schools host writing programs for high school students. While some of these programs focus on the basics of writing, others are much more immersive. They teach various writing fields, including creative writing, research writing, scriptwriting, and poetry.

Whether you become the next Poet Laureate or the top-rated journalist, you can begin by attending a writing program this summer. Participating in these programs will build your skills and boost your college applications. Of the many writing programs, we bring to you the best writing programs for high schoolers. 

1. Princeton Summer Journalism Program at Princeton University 

Location : Princeton, NJ 

Program Length: 10 days

Eligibility: Grade 11-12 students

Start Date: July 26, 2024

Application Deadline: February 15, 2024

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) offers a free, year-long journalism program for high school juniors from limited-income backgrounds . Students must go through a hybrid intensive period during the summer after their junior year, after which they work one-on-one with a personal college counselor during their senior year.

It is open to students with enthusiasm for journalism. You gain new writing and essential skills, including communication and work ethics. Other young creatives from around the world come together to learn and discuss topics ranging from culture, history, social issues, politics, and current events. You need no prior experience in journalism before joining this program.

2. YAWP Summer Teen Writing Fellowship at GrubStreet Center for Creative Writing in Seaport

Location : Boston, MA 

Program Length : Three weeks

Cost : Free

Eligibility : Grade 9-12 students

Start Date : July 8, 2024

Application Deadline : March 18, 2024

YAWP ( Young Artists and Writers Project ) is a highly sought-after creative summer writing program for high school students. Within three weeks, you collaborate with published authors and meet with literary agents and editors. There are also trips to inspirational locales like the ICA and libraries. 

Students without writing experience can be a part of this program. However, it is open only to applicants who attend school in Suffolk, Norfolk, Middlesex, Essex, or Plymouth counties, prioritizing Boston residents. Only 20 applicants are selected for this program.

Students will learn techniques in genres, including but not limited to fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting. You also discover how to relate as a student in the literary world. Each student will receive a stipend of $625 at the end of the program.

3. The School of New York Times Summer Academy at The School of New York Times

Location : New York City, NY 

Program Length : Two weeks

Cost : $7,220 for Residents and $5,935 for Day students 

Eligibility : Grade 10-12 students

Start Date : June 3, 2024

Application Deadline : April 1, 2024

The School of the New York Times offers various summer writing programs, covering topics like Writing on Tech, Opinion writing in journalism, commentary writing, creative writing, film writing, and other writing genres. Each topic is a different course on its own.

The instructors at this summer academy are industry experts, including award-winning journalists working at the New York Times. Students also explore New York City on field trips and unique visits. They also form connections with peers and students participating in graduate programs.

4. JCamp by Asian American Journalist Association

Location : Austin, TX 

Program Length : One week

Cost : Free 

Start Date : August 3, 2024

Application Deadline : March 1, 2024

JCamp is a national journalism workshop for high school students. It runs for six days, during which students from diverse cultures come to learn from veteran journalists and leading media executives. 

Expect hands-on training, including multiplatform news packages for the program’s news site, JCamp Live, interactive workshops, and field trips. A requirement to be selected is an apparent keen interest in broadcasting, magazines, newspapers, photojournalism, or online media. 

5. Juniper Young Writers Writing Lab at the University of Massachusetts 

Location : Amherst, MA 

Program Length : Two weeks 

Cost : $2,500 

Start Date : July 29, 2024

Application Deadline: March 7, 2024

The University of Massachusetts offers a two-week residential summer writing program at the Juniper Institute for Young Writers . During this program, students learn about writing concepts through lectures, fiction workshops, and writing prompts. They will participate in writing labs, craft sessions, writer’s life talks, readings, and write-alongs.

In addition, students will visit destinations associated with the writers, poets, and activists who made Western Mass their home. Seasoned instructors are available to answer your questions about creative writing. A bonus is the first-hand look at college life during this residential program on the University of Massachusetts campus.

6. Smith College Creative Writing Workshop at Smith College

Location : Northampton, MA 

Cost : $4,745

Start Date : July 6, 2024

Application Deadline : May 2024

Smith’s Creative Writing Workshop creates an avenue to explore writing in a creative and supportive environment. If you are passionate about creative writing, this program will enhance your love of writing. 

The classes employ a multi-draft writing model that embraces the unpredictability that occurs when we stop trying to control our writing. You learn a flexible writing approach that eliminates writer’s block and gives you access to your full creativity.

You also learn how to edit your work and others’ work. At the end of the program, you will have a budding online writing portfolio, an anthology with writing samples from all students, and professional contacts in the literary world.

7. Reynolds Young Writer’s Workshop at Denison University

Location : Granville, OH 

Cost : $1,500

Eligibility : Grade 11-12 students

Start Date : June 22, 2024

Application Deadline :  March 1, 2024

Denison University hosts a writer's workshop every year where core faculty members teach each student. The training begins with an introduction to the fundamentals and the depths of creative writing across the genres. Classes include writing exercises, short reading assignments, and craft discussions. 

Aside from writing workshops, you can meet with faculty members to discuss your work, aspirations, and writing goals. Not only the faculty members, you also get to meet and connect with acclaimed poets and writers.

During leisure, you can participate in cultural and recreational opportunities in Granville and Columbus. These include excursions to the Columbus Museum of Art, hiking in Denison’s 350-acre bio-reserve, movies, swimming, volleyball, bowling, and more.

8. The Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Workshop for Young Writers by the Alpha Group 

Location : Greensburg, PA 

Cost: $1,500

Start Date : July 24, 2024

Application Deadline : April 15, 2024

The Alpha workshop for high school students teaches students how to write stories in the sci-fi, horror, and fantasy genres. You learn how to generate and convert ideas into a draft. You also learn how to submit to professionals, attack revisions, and build a career in writing.

Alpha selects 20 students with significant experience in writing. Although the workshop is held at the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg, the university has no affiliation with Alpha Workshop For Young Writers Inc.

9. Liberal Arts Intensive at Barnard College

Location : Broadway, NY 

Program Length : Seven weeks

Cost : $13,724 for residents and $9,434 for commuters.

Application Deadline : March 10, 2024

The liberal arts intensive summer program covers several writing courses, including the Art of the Essay, reading, and writing workshops. The Art of Essay course includes discussions about cogent subject matters. 

Students get to write three types of essays that center on personal experience as valuable evidence of more significant phenomena or patterns. All activities aim to hone your observing, questioning, describing, analyzing, and persuading skills. 

High school females can also benefit from the course that teaches feminist life writing and women's fairy tales. In the end, you earn three college credits. You can use the credits at Barnard or transfer them to any college or university that accepts credit transfers.

10. Pre-College Experience at Emory University

Location : Atlanta, GA 

Cost : $4,803 for residents and $3,435 for commuters.

Start Date : June 16, 2024

Application Deadline : May 17, 2024

Emory University hosts high school students for different courses, including creative writing, during the summer. 

It is an introductory poetry course that analyzes a wide range of contemporary poems to develop the skills necessary for generating original poems. This summer school course includes poetry reading and a class chapbook production featuring every student's work. 

11. Pre-College Creative Writers Workshop at Emerson College

Program Length : Four weeks

Cost : $4,310

Application Deadline : March 15, 2024

Emerson College’s Creative Writers Workshop is one of the best creative summer programs for high school students. This workshop helps develop writing skills through intensive coursework that offers fiction, comedy, prose, scriptwriting, and performance poetry courses. 

You will write, revise, and compile a portfolio of your work, which is an addition to your college application. It comprises a series of faculty readings, literary hangouts, and open mic nights, all in a bid to learn how to collaborate with other writers. 

12. Hoya Summer Sessions at Georgetown University

Location : Washington, DC 

Cost : $6,159

Application Deadline: May 15, 2024

Hoya Summer Session is an intensive writing and culture course that accepts 15 students. These students will learn how to use writing as a tool for inquiry. Their training will teach them to read critically, focusing on language, context, and form. 

Students will understand how to write for different rhetorical situations, taking note of the genre, context, and technology. Also, you learn the intricacies of language use, including grammar, punctuation, syntax, and semantics. 

You learn to research, evaluate, and synthesize appropriate evidence to build effective analyses and arguments. The training also entails navigating new forms of communication, for example, the social media platforms that spring up regularly.

13. Sewanee Young Writers' Conference at Education Unlimited 

Location : Sewanee, TN 

Program Length: Two weeks

Cost : $2575 

Start Date : June 30, 2024

Application Deadline : February 16, 2024

The SYWC is a summer conference for high schoolers passionate about creative writing. Within two weeks, you will read, cultivate your writing, and form a community with other young writers worldwide. 

The courses cover the following genres: fiction, poetry, literary nonfiction, songwriting, fantasy, and science fiction. When students are not reading, they are in book discussions or optional craft classes. 

Outside writing activities, students take guided hikes on Sewanee's 13,000-acre domain, sing karaoke, participate in talent shows, play board games, or hang out with friends in the dorm.

14. Emerging Writers Institute Creative Writing Camp

Location : Berkeley, CA 

Cost : $995 

Start Date : June 10, 2024

Application Deadline : April 29, 2024

The Emerging Writers Institute creative writing camp provides an experience for students to develop and support their imaginative writing across literary genres. The genres include fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. 

Students undergo intensive workshops, literary outings, one-on-one instructor evaluations, group editing sessions, and creative work presentations.

Experienced authors and instructors are on the ground to help young writers hone their craft in a collaborative environment. Also, young writers worldwide will form and sustain literary friendships that can last a lifetime. 

15. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio at the University of Iowa

Location : Iowa City, IA 

Application Deadline : February 4, 2024

Students in the Summer Residential Program take an immersive course within two weeks. These courses are taught by graduates of the renowned Iowa Writers' Workshop . 

You can choose from fiction writing, poetry writing, creative writing (which includes some combination of poetry, fiction, and personal essays), TV writing, and playwriting. Students will participate in writing exercises, receiving constructive criticism from teachers and peers. 

They’ll also conduct craft workshops, engage in discussions on writing-adjacent subjects (such as literary translation, film, and mental health), organize readings by existing published writers, and facilitate collaborative projects among students.

16. Pre-College Writing and Culture Program at Carnegie Mellon University

Location : Pittsburgh, PA 

Cost : $8,995 for residents and $6,800 for commuters 

Start Date: June 22, 2024

At CMU , high school students explore writing, culture, and film through traditional, historical, and contemporary lenses. You will learn critical and creative thinking, which will cause you to write effectively for college and beyond. You also gain a toolkit that helps you interpret written and visual stories from different viewpoints.

Upon completion, you will produce a body of works containing short-form writing, film development and production, and preparatory materials to help you set a strong foundation in the humanities. This program adds individualized feedback and guidance, increasing your strengths and interests. 

17. Beginning Screenwriting Program at Loyola Marymount University

Location : Los Angeles, CA 

Cost : $5,800

Start Date : June 23, 2024

In the heart of the entertainment capital, the Beginning Screenwriting program stands out as one of the best summer writing programs for high school students in the U.S. The teachers are experienced screenwriters.

These instructors teach the basic elements of screenwriting and broaden their writing skills. The training explores structure, character development, dialogue, descriptive action, and formatting in a supportive workshop environment. 

18. Pre-College Summer School Program at Harvard University

Location : Cambridge, MA 

Cost : $5,550

Application Deadline : April 10, 2024

The Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program is a two-week summer program offering high school students a Speech, Writing, and Literature course. If you seek to pursue a career in writing, you should take this course. 

This course covers creative writing, English, expository writing, journalism, and speech. Students can expect to build valuable academic skills and learn to live independently on a college campus.

19. The Multicultural Journalism Program (MJP) at the University of Alabama

Location : Tuscaloosa, AL 

Start Date : TBA

Application: Deadline: April 1, 2024

While students are still in high school, the University of Alabama selects 10 to 15 students to attend an intensive workshop in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The workshop emphasizes writing, editing, graphics, multimedia reporting, and basic communication skills. 

The workshop begins from day one under the direction of the faculty and visiting professionals. At the end of the program, participants showcase their work via an MJP Journal, a newspaper, and a website. 

The tutors are journalists from around the state and are paired with each student. Many tutors contact their assigned youngsters throughout the year and into their careers. 

20. Tisch’s Future Dramatic Writers Workshop at New York University 

Eligibility : Grade 9-11 students

Start Date : July 4, 2024

Application Deadline : February 1, 2024

The Dramatic Writers Workshop gives students a glimpse of what it means to study and write drama. It is a free, highly focused academic and professional writing program for students with the talent and the will to write for theatre, film, and television. 

The schedule includes professional training in Dance, Drama, Production and design, Dramatic Writing, and Filmmaking. The Tisch Summer High School Program is tuition-based, and students earn about four to six college credits.

21. Yale Young Writers’ Workshop at Yale University 

Location : Online 

Cost : $950 

Start Date : July 7, 2024

Yale Young Writers' work is yet another one of the creative writing summer programs for high school students to look out for. A group of bookish wordsmiths come together to generate and share their work in an intimate, non-competitive, online community. 

There are three genres (fiction, nonfiction, or poetry) to choose from, each with twelve writers. Participants attend talks, open mics, and student readings and learn about careers in writing. 

Participants will read one assigned book from a visiting writer at the start of the workshop to investigate writing techniques. The faculty has gifted teachers and published writers who will challenge students to produce their best work.

22. Young Writer’s Summer Residential Workshop at Kenyon College

Location : Gambier, OH 

Start Date : July 23, 2024

At Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops , 12 to 14 passionate high school students come together to stretch their talents, discover new strengths, and challenge themselves. This program combines individual conferences with peer-led group discussions and exercises.

The aim is to help students recognize and work on their writing skills. You will also be able to participate in a genre session where one genre or element of writing will be explored in-depth. 

23. Young Writers Workshop at Bard College

Location : Great Barrington, MA 

Program Length : 3 weeks

Cost : $3,500

Instead of focusing only on the writing style, this three-week writers workshop at Bard College focuses on enhancing language and thinking skills, which are key skills for effective writing. You will engage in reading and writing activities within small groups of 12. 

In the workshop, you will read various challenging texts to examine form, content, and evolving ideas in our world. Evening revising and journal writing assignments complement the daily readings and writing activities. 

You build a portfolio in the end. But much more than that, You will learn how to find your writing voice and style. 

24. Creative Writing Studio at Auburn University

Location : Auburn, AL 

Cost : $880

Application Deadline : April 2024

Creative Writing Studio at Auburn University is dedicated to feeding the passionate muse and sharpening your writing skills in three genres – fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction. 

You will participate in workshops and writing craft classes to help you create original fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Also, you will read some established work pieces daily, with an eye toward the architecture of how they are made. 

They offer a tour of how a literary journal, the acclaimed Southern Humanities Review, works. Expect to experience campus life in Auburn's resident dormitories while you enjoy evening social and recreational activities.

25. Screenwriting Institute at Wake Forest University 

Location : Winston-Salem, NC 

Cost : $2,800

The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Screenwriting Institute is an unforgettable experience for students interested in screenwriting and storytelling. It is a week-long program designed to teach the art and craft of writing screenplays for film, television, and/or video games. You will learn how to write your screenplay and create two short original screenplays by the end of the week.

How to Choose the Right Program for You?

It can be difficult to make a choice when you’re presented with so many different programs! Here are some tips to help you decide. 

You should begin by reflecting on your own interests, curiosities, and goals. Ultimately, you need to choose the program that will engage your passions and set you up well for your future. What are your hobbies? What do you want to learn more about? What potential career paths are you considering? Ask yourself all these questions. 

For instance, “writing” is a broad hobby. Do you enjoy writing poetry? Journalistic writing? Nonfiction? Screenwriting? What other related areas are you interested in? All these factors will help you zero in on the right program. 

In our summer planning webinar , admissions expert Dan gives advice on finding a summer program: 

“List out all the things that you're passionate about, and then with that, list some other things that you're curious about and that you want to explore. Under each of those, spend five minutes at a time just brainstorming different ways you could go about doing that."

Here are some other factors you might consider when choosing a summer writing program: 

• Duration & dates of the program
• In-person vs. online
• Program content
• Faculty/workshop leaders
• Publication opportunities

If none of these programs are quite your speed, we have good news. Our extensive summer program database has hundreds of summer programs that you can look through! 

FAQs: 25 Best High School Summer Writing Programs in 2024

Summer writing programs are great investments for high school students. Here are answers to some other questions you may have. 

1. How Do Summer Writing Programs Benefit High School Students?

Summer writing programs offer numerous benefits to high school students. Firstly, they allow students to enhance their writing skills in a focused and immersive environment. These programs expose students to different styles of writing, literary works, and discussions about the craft of writing. It offers them a platform to improve their writing skills and build a supportive community of fellow writers.

2. Are There Specific Eligibility Criteria for High School Students to Join Summer Writing Programs?

Yes. Eligibility criteria for summer writing programs vary depending on the specific program. Most programs have age restrictions or grade-level requirements. It’s important to carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined by each program and ensure you meet any specified requirements before applying. 

3. How Can Participating in a Summer Writing Program Enhance a High School Student's College Applications?

Joining a summer writing program boosts college applications, showing your love for literature and creativity. It's great for English, creative writing, or journalism interests. You'll create a portfolio, proving your skills for admissions committees.

Admissions expert Dan discusses how summer programs can impact your college profile: 

“This is a chance to really demonstrate something you’re passionate about. That’s something colleges look for; they really want to see your passion shine through. And if you’re using your summer to demonstrate that, it’s going to send a strong message.”

Final Thoughts

Summer programs set you apart in college application, particularly at highly selective schools. Now that you have a list of the top summer writing programs for high school students, start preparing your application materials. 

Materials include transcripts, application essays, letters of recommendation, or sample writing materials. If you need financial aid, ensure that you apply before the application deadline. While at it, check out this list of internship opportunities for high school students.

Get A Free Consultation

You may also like.

125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

What Grades Do Colleges Look At?

• Writing Summer Institute for High School Students

English Composition 50: Introduction to College Writing for High School Students

Course description.

• English Composition 50: Introduction to College Writing for High School Students is a non-resident writing course for English-speaking high school students who seek to strengthen their writing and discussion skills. For over twenty years, UCLA Writing Programs has helped undergraduates successfully meet the challenges of a university education. Through a three week summer workshop, UCLA’s highly regarded writing specialists will help college-bound students prepare for those challenges. All activities will demystify the unstated differences between college and high school writing. The summer workshop will also attend to the college application process, including the application essay. This writer’s workshop is ideal for the ambitious high school student who wants to start a step ahead.

Course Dates/Times & Instructional Format

• Course Number and Title:  English Composition 50 – Introduction to College Writing
• Dates & Meeting Time:  Tuesdays 10AM-2PM (with a 30-min. break for lunch) & Thursdays 10am-12:30pm Tues., July 16th through Thurs., Aug. 1st
• Instructional Format: 2 In-Person sections on the UCLA campus; 1 Online Synchronous section

Registering for the Course

• Access the  Summer Courses Registration Form  starting February 15.  This form applies to non-UCLA students interested in taking Summer Courses, Summer Online, or Summer Intensives. Read all terms and conditions, then scroll to the bottom and “Continue to Registration.”
• Respond to all required questions.
• Submit the form and pay the $350 ($150 for UC students) registration fee.
• Look for the confirmation email containing your nine-digit UCLA University Identification Number (UID) and follow the directions to create a UCLA Logon with your UID number.
• Email  [email protected]  to receive department consent to enroll into an ENCOMP 50 section. Note which section – IN-PERSON or ONLINE – you wish to enroll into.
• Enroll in  ENGCOMP 50 course  on MyUCLA under the “Classes” tab and “Find a Class and Enroll”. Confirm the enrollment by checking if the course appears on your “Study List”.
• Verify and pay any and all remaining balances on MyUCLA under “Finances and Jobs” and then “BruinBill”.

Apply for a Scholarship

• We offer several scholarships that cover full program tuition. To apply, click  here . The deadline to submit this application with supplementary materials is  April 12th, 2024 .
• Please note that this scholarship does not cover housing. If you are enrolled in an in-person section of English Composition 50 and wish to live on campus, please go to the  main WSI website  and click on “Housing — Optional.”
• Archived Spotlight Posts
• Student Testimonials
• Open Positions
• Program Leadership
• Undergraduate Writing Center
• Undergraduate Writing Requirements
• Professional Writing Minor
• Undergraduate Courses
• Undergraduate Course Learning Objectives
• Undergraduate Writing Awards
• Non-UCLA International Students
• Enrollment for Spring 2024 in English Comp 3/3D for Cluster Students
• English Language Requirements & Resources for International Graduate Students
• TA Training
• Graduate Certificate in Writing Pedagogy
• Graduate Writing Center
• Academic Year ESL
• Summer ESL Program
• UCLA’s Informed Placement Process (IPP)
• English as a Second Language Placement Exam (ESLPE)
• TOP Exam Schedule & Registration
• Campus Partners
• Community-Engaged Writing Courses
• Get Involved

College Verdict

The Best Summer Writing Programs for High School Students

If you're a high school student who loves to write, there are some amazing summer programs out there that can help you develop your skills. Not only do many of these programs have students working closely with talented university faculty, but the programs often provide opportunities for students to meet and learn from some of their favourite authors.

These programs can be a great way to meet other young writers and get some constructive feedback on your work. And of course, it's always nice to spend a few weeks in a beautiful location surrounded by like-minded people!

If you're thinking about applying to any summer writing programs, be sure to check out this list of some of the best ones out there.

BYU's Young Authors Academy

Are you a middle or high school student interested in writing? If so, then you should check out BYU's Young Authors Academy! This program lasts for one week and offers students the opportunity to live on campus, get training from BYU professors, and meet guest authors. While students are not required to stay on campus, many find it enriching to do so. And because BYU has a strict code of conduct, you can be sure that the program is safe and appropriate for all ages. So if you're looking for a summer writing program that will challenge and inspire you, be sure to check out the Young Authors Academy at Brigham Young University!

Lewis and Clark Fir Acres Writing Workshop

Looking for a summer writing program for high school students? Look no further than the Lewis and Clark Fir Acres Writing Workshop! This two-week program is located in Portland, Oregon and includes writing workshops, trips to the city, and wandering the campus.

The Fir Acres Writing Workshop is a great way to improve your writing skills while also exploring a new place. The program is designed to help you find your voice as a writer, and you'll have the opportunity to meet other students from all over the country.

If you're looking for an unforgettable summer experience, the Fir Acres Writing Workshop is the perfect choice.

Beginning Screenwriting at LMU

Loyola Marymount University offers a two-week workshop on beginning screenwriting for high school students. Award-winning faculty screenwriters who have experience writing movies and tv series lead the workshop. After completing the workshop, students will be able to screenwrite collaboratively and produce a brief script of their own.

This summer writing program is perfect for any high school student interested in learning more about screenwriting. Led by experienced professionals, students will get an inside look at what it takes to write a successful screenplay. Writers will get the chance to team up with other writers and create their own short screenplay over the duration of the workshop. If you're looking for a creative and educational summer activity, this program at LMU is definitely worth checking out!

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is a two-week program for high school students that focuses on a different core genre each week. Students have the opportunity to hear from published authors and explore new areas of writing. The program is designed to help students develop their writing skills and discover new genres that they may be interested in pursuing.

Each week of the program has a different focus, allowing students to explore a variety of genres. Week one focuses on fiction, while week two focuses on creative nonfiction. Other genres that are explored during the program include poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting.

During the program, students will have the opportunity to hear from published authors who will speak about their work and offer advice to the students. In addition, the students will have the chance to explore new areas of writing through workshops and activities. By the end of the program, participants will have developed new writing skills and knowledge about various genres of writing.

The Wharton Center's Young Playwrights Festival

The Wharton Center is excited to announce its annual Young Playwrights Festival! This event is open to Michigan students only and offers a great opportunity for aspiring writers. The winner of the festival will have their play performed by the MSU theater department on the Wharton Center stage. This is an incredible opportunity to showcase your work and potentially have it seen by thousands of people.

So, how can you enter? First, you must be a high school student in Michigan. Second, you must submit a full-length play that has not been previously produced. And that's it! Once your play is submitted, it will be read and evaluated by a panel of judges. The top three plays will then be performed by the MSU theater department at the Wharton Center.

And don't forget to tell all your Michigan friends about this amazing opportunity!

Georgetown's Creative Writing Academy

Georgetown's Creative Writing Academy offers high school students the opportunity to learn about writing and publishing over the course of one week. If you attend the Academy, you'll get to work with advisers, learn about funding opportunities for writing projects, and potentially have your work published in Georgetown's literary magazine, Three Stars.

The Creative Writing Academy offers high school students interested in writing an opportunity to get insight into what it's like to work as a professionalwriter. Advisors at the Academy will help students develop their writing skills and provide guidance on how to get their work published. Funding opportunities for writing projects will also be available, so students can explore different ways to finance their writing endeavors. And finally, Three Stars will provide a platform for students to showcase their work to the Georgetown community.

If you're a high school student interested in writing, the Creative Writing Academy at Georgetown is definitely worth checking out. With experienced advisors, ample funding opportunities, and a publication outlet for your work, the Academy provides everything you need to get started on your writing career.

UF's Summer Media Institute

The different elements of storytelling are taught to students in the real world at the University of Florida's six-day Summer Media Institute workshop. The registration for the program is open to all students and it is done on basis of whoever applies first.

The program begins with an introduction to the basics of storytelling, including plot, character development, and dialogue. Then, students will have the opportunity to put what they've learned into practice by working on their own short stories. Throughout the week, instructors will provide feedback and help each student polish their work.

On the final day of the workshop, students will present their stories to the group. This is a great opportunity for them to get feedback from their peers and to see how far they've come in just a few short days.

If your child is interested in writing or if they are already passionate about it, this is a great summer program for them to attend. It's also a great way for them to meet other like-minded students from all over the country. So if you're looking for a summer writing program for high school students, be sure to check out UF's Summer Media Institute!

Sewanee Young Writers’ Conference

The University of The South, which is situated on 13,000 acres in Tennessee, hosts the Sewanee Young Writers Conference. This summer writing program for high school students attracts some of the best young writers from around the country.

Each year, a different guest author is invited to be the keynote speaker at the conference. Students who attend the conference will have read the books of the summer's guest authors prior to coming. This allows them to be familiar with the author's work and to get the most out of the conference experience.

This year's guest author is Jane Austen. Her novels are some of the most beloved works in English literature. Attendees of the Sewanee Young Writers Conference will have the opportunity to learn from her and to explore her work in depth.

If you're a young writer looking for an immersive and challenging summer writing experience, look no further than the Sewanee Young Writers Conference!

Princeton Summer Journalism Program

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program is a program that provides free resources for students who come from lower-income households. The program provides an all-expenses-paid chance to take part in their 10-day Summer Journalism Program. If students meet the necessary requirements, a Princeton counselor will be assigned to help with the college application process - regardless of which college they decide to attend.

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program is an amazing opportunity for high school students interested in journalism. Not only is the program free for qualifying students, but it also provides a full ride to attend the 10-day summer program. Additionally, a Princeton counselor will be assigned to students who meet the criteria to help with the college application process – regardless of the student's chosen school.

If you or someone you know is interested in journalism and meets the eligibility requirements, be sure to apply for this incredible program!

These are just a few of the amazing summer writing programs available to high school students. If you want to become a better writer and connect with other young writers, one of these programs may be right for you. You're sure to have an unforgettable experience that will help you develop your skills and passion for writing.

• Share this:

About the author

Related posts, how to write an effective fce writing essay, the most affordable universities in silicon valley.

Connection denied by Geolocation Setting.

Reason: Blocked country: Russia

The connection was denied because this country is blocked in the Geolocation settings.

Please contact your administrator for assistance.

Creative Writing Academy

• How to Apply

Steps to Complete Your Application

300- to 500-word personal statement.

Write a 300- to 500-word personal statement describing why you want to attend the Summer High School Programs at Georgetown University. Your completed essay should be uploaded to your online application prior to submission.

Completed School Official Reviewer Form

Provide the contact information of your current high school counselor (preferred), teacher, or principal who will be able to speak to your overall academic readiness for the program and can verify your current GPA. Upon submitting your application, your chosen point of contact will receive an automatic email request with instructions for completing the form.

International Student Requirements

International students participating in the Academies are not required to obtain a visa or submit TOEFL scores. For more information on international student requirements, including mandatory health insurance, please visit our Resources for International Students page.

This is the application for the Academies. If admitted, you will be able to register for any of our Academies (as availability allows). Please note: An offer of admission does not guarantee your seat in an Academy. Registration is conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, and to secure a seat in your chosen program, you must register and submit tuition payment.

Upon starting your application, you will receive a NetID and GUID. A NetID (username) is the login credential that will allow you to access the various electronic resources made available to you while participating in our program. Your single-use password is “gu + the last 6 digits of your GUID”, and will expire after logging in with it for the first time. 

You are REQUIRED to enroll in Georgetown’s Duo two-factor authentication service, install Duo on your mobile device (you’ll use this device to approve login push notifications from Duo), enroll in Georgetown’s online password management system, and change your single-use password using the password management system .

Additional Information

Summer applications are reviewed starting in late fall. Our Admissions Office only reviews completed applications, which include the applicant’s personal statement essay, a response from the applicant’s reference, and an application fee (if submitted after January 31). Admission decisions are released as they are made. Please allow up to three weeks after we have received your completed application for an admission decision to be emailed to your primary email address.

Note: Email is the primary form of communication throughout the application and admission process. Only the primary email address listed in the application will receive the automatic communications and application updates. Please ensure that both parent/guardian and student emails are entered correctly on the application. If there is a change in either email address, please inform our office immediately at [email protected] . We strongly recommend that you double-check your Spam folder for potential missed emails from the University.

Deadline Dates:

• Early Bird Deadline Dates : January 31* *Application fee waived for all applications submitted by this date
• Final Deadline : May 15 Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis

To apply to the Summer Programs for High School Students, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a current or rising high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior during the academic year prior to your summer program
• Show evidence of good academic standing, with at least a 2.0 GPA

For the following Non-Credit Academies, students must be at least 15 years old by the date of check-in (no exceptions):

• 1-Week Medical Academy
• 1-Week Nursing Academy
• 3-Week Medical Academy
• Biotechnology for Science & Health

If you are an eligible homeschooled student applying to the Summer High School Programs, your School Official Reviewer Form may not come from a family member or paid tutor; the form must come from a teacher or another person who can speak to your academic abilities and capacity to thrive in a college environment.

English Proficiency

TOEFL scores are not required for the Academies. To fully participate and enjoy these programs, we recommend that you be able to:

• In English, understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your field(s) of interest.
• Interact with a degree of English fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers possible.
• Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.

Visa Information

International students participating in the Academies are not required to obtain a visa.

For more information on international student requirements, including mandatory health insurance, please visit our Resources for International Students page.

Want to learn more?

Request information to find out the latest on the Summer Programs for High School Students.

All fields are required.

• Summer 2025

* indicates required field

• Young Scholars Program

Young Scholars Program  for  High School Students

June 18 - july 26, 2024, become a young scholar.

Highly-motivated students going into their junior or senior year of high school have the opportunity to explore college in an intensive summer program that includes university courses, advising, and meetings with key people on campus. In addition to college credit (upon successful completion of their classes), students leave with a hands-on experience of college life. Students are required to attend every class meeting. Travel and other summer programs must not occur during the dates of the Young Scholars Program.

We will occasionally send you updates about the Young Scholars Program.

Interest Form

Santa Clara University

Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University sits in the heart of Silicon Valley—the world’s most innovative and entrepreneurial region. The University’s stunningly landscaped 106-acre campus is home to the historic Mission Santa Clara de Asís. Ranked among the top 15 percent of national universities by U.S. News & World Report, SCU has among the best four-year graduation rates in the nation and is rated by PayScale in the top 1 percent of universities with the highest-paid graduates. SCU has produced elite levels of Fulbright Scholars as well as four Rhodes Scholars. With undergraduate programs in arts and sciences, business, and engineering, and graduate programs in six disciplines, the curriculum blends high-tech innovation with social consciousness grounded in the tradition of Jesuit, Catholic education. For more information about Santa Clara, please visit  www.scu.edu .

Summer Sessions

Celebrating 150 years of Harvard Summer School. Learn about our history.

The Writing Center

The Harvard Summer School Writing Center is open to all registered Summer School students, whether you are studying on campus or online. The Writing Center is staffed by trained tutors (Harvard undergraduates and graduate students) who provide individual conferences to students working on any writing assignment. Tutors are also available for consultations on college application essays and graduate school application essays.

How to Schedule an Appointment

You can schedule an appointment by visiting our online scheduler at  wcscheduler.fas.harvard.edu  (login required). You don’t have to have a finished paper to schedule a conference. You can come with ideas, notes, or a draft.

How to Contact Us

The best way to reach us is to email us at  [email protected] . You can also check out the  Writing Center’s website  for more information and links to useful information about writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I want to meet with a writing tutor? View More

Writing Center tutors are trained to read academic papers critically and with an eye towards strengthening an argument. They can talk to you about structure, ideas, and clarity of your paper, and suggest strategies for revision.

Will a tutor proofread my paper? View More

We cannot proofread or edit your work, but we will be happy to point out problems with grammar and syntax as we discuss your paper.

Will a tutor edit my English for me? View More

Writing tutors are not editors. We are here to help you express your ideas clearly and to help you learn the conventions of academic writing. We will talk to you about your grammar and syntax in the context of helping you write the strongest paper you can write.

Can I come to the Writing Center every day? View More

Our online scheduler will allow you to book a maximum of two appointments each week. While we are always happy to see you, visits to the Writing Center become unproductive if you don’t take time to think about and revise your own work between visits.

Will you tell my instructor I visited the Writing Center? View More

Writing Center conferences are confidential. We will not discuss your conference, or the fact that you came here for a conference, with your instructor.

Can I bring a take-home exam to the Writing Center? View More

Tutors can only discuss a take-home exam with you if you bring written permission from your instructor that explicitly states that you are allowed to come to the Writing Center. You can simply ask your instructor to email you this permission and then you can show it to us.

Can you tell me what grade I will get on my paper? View More

Writing Center tutors cannot predict what grade your instructor will give you on a particular piece of writing. Tutors can, however, respond as readers to issues of clarity, structure, and argument.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

The Fall cohort application deadline is September 8, 2024.  

Click here to apply.

Featured Posts

15 Summer Research Internships for High School Students

11 Fall Programs for High School Students

8 Summer Immersion Programs for High School Freshmen

7 Sports Internships in Chicago for High School Students

• 10 min read

15 Best Research Opportunities for High School Students in California

Finding a great summer opportunity can be difficult, particularly in a place as competitive as California. Because we're a group of research nerds, we wanted to compile opportunities for students looking for research opportunities in the state!

In this article, we list 15 of the best in-person research-oriented programs in California that provide an immersive learning experience and enrich you as a scholar. The opportunities range from highly selective to fairly welcoming, and while some have a fee associated with them, others provide a stipend. There is something here for everyone.

Not seeing something you like? You can also look at the opportunities we’ve curated in psychology research , medical research , biology research , and virtual research . You can also check out our research program – Lumiere – which had 2100 students apply this past year!

15 Best Summer Research Opportunities for High School Students in California

1. COSMOS | California State Summer School for Mathematics & Science

Subject areas: STEM

Location: At the host institution's campus (living on campus). COSMOS is available across 4 campuses: UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC San Diego, and UC Santa Cruz.

Cost / stipend: Fee - $4,550. Financial Aid is available.

Application deadline: Tentatively January for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Program dates: June - August

Program selectivity: High

Eligibility: California resident (although it allows 20 out-of-state students to participate). Demonstrated academic excellence.

This is an intensive, 4-week summer residential program for students who have demonstrated an aptitude in STEM. A typical COSMOS student has a GPA of 3.5 or above and other credentials which demonstrate academic excellence.

2. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Subject areas: Biology, chemistry, medicine

Location: Stanford University campus (Stanford, CA)

Cost / stipend: The program provides a $500 stipend.

Fee: $40 (For application. Need-based refund available)

Application deadline: Tentatively December 15, 2022 for 2023 (based on the announcement on the website).

Eligibility: 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.

During this 8-week program, students collaborate with Stanford faculty and researchers to conduct medical research. Students select one of eight study fields and are then allocated to a lab where they will be mentored one-on-one.

3. Scripps Research’s High School Student Research Education Program

Location: Scripps Research California campus (La Jolla, CA)

Cost / stipend: This program provides a $4,060 stipend.

Application deadline: Tentatively April for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Program dates: June to August

Eligibility: San Diego County resident. At least 16 years of age when the program begins. Demonstrated competency in high school level chemistry and biology (minimum 3.0 GPA).

This immersive 8-week program provides exposure to contemporary issues in biomedical research, hands-on laboratory experience and mentorship from graduate students.

4. Stanford Summer Session

Subject areas: multidisciplinary

Location: Stanford University campus (Stanford, CA) *

Cost / stipend: Fee - Commuter, taking minimum of 3 units: starts at $4,926. Living on campus, taking a minimum of 8 units: starts at $15,875.

Application deadline: Tentatively November 2022 for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Program selectivity: Moderate

Eligibility: Current sophomores, juniors, or seniors. At least 16 years of age when the program begins. Must not be matriculating into Stanford as a first year.

These 8-week programs offer an array of research opportunities ranging from behavioral sciences, animation, anthropology to computer science. All Stanford Summer Session courses carry Stanford University credit.

5. Joint BioEnergy Institute’s Summer Science Intensive: iCLEM

Subject areas: Biotechnology, microbiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, synthetic biology and biofuels.

Location: UC Berkeley Campus or other partner institutions.

Cost / stipend: The program provides a $1,800 stipend plus a $200 stipend for supplies and transportation.

Application deadline: Tentatively March for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Program dates: June - July

Eligibility: Sophomores or juniors at a high school in Alameda, Contra Costa, or San Francisco County. At least 15 years old. US citizens, permanent residents or DACA recipients. Contingent on maximum annual household income ( here ).

Hosted by the Joint BioEnergy Institute (U.S. Department of Energy) and other prestigious partner organizations, the Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) is a 5-week, paid summer science intensive for economically disadvantaged high school sophomores and juniors. Students work on a research project and get guidance on areas such as career exploration and college applications.

6. UCSD’s and SDSC’s Annual Research Experience for High School Students (REHS)

Subject areas: Computer science and related fields

Location: UC San Diego campus (San Diego, CA)

Cost / stipend: Fee - Program with research project: $1,500. Program without research project: free.

Program selectivity: Fairly welcoming

Eligibility: Open to high school students generally. May have course-specific eligibility requirements.

Hosted by UC San Diego and the San Diego Supercomputer Center, this 8-week program allows students to work closely with mentors on a research project through which students learn how to formulate and test hypotheses, conduct computational experiments, and draw conclusions from those experiments.

7. UCLA’s Applications of Nano Science Summer Camp

Subject areas: Chemistry, physics, nanoscience

Location: UCLA campus (Los Angeles, CA). Living on campus is optional.

Cost / stipend: Fee - $2,961 + $1,521 (optional housing fee). Need and merit-based scholarships are available.

Program dates: July

Eligibility: Anyone enrolled in high school (freshman to senior). Strong science foundation in chemistry, physics, and biology.

During this 2-week program, students propose and conduct their own experimental research project. Students will explore a few important applications of nanoscience while also learning the basics of reviewing existing scientific literature, design-thinking, and entrepreneurship.

8. UCSF’s Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship Program

Location: UC San Francisco campus (San Francisco, CA)

Cost / stipend: The program provides a $1500 stipend.

Program selectivity: Moderately selective

Eligibility: Juniors or Seniors. At least 16 years old when the program begins. At least one completed year in math and biology. Have a background considered under-represented in the sciences.

This 9-week research program is integrated with the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland and organized by the Rheumatology and Immunology Laboratories. Students work 40 hours per week in either basic laboratory research or clinical epidemiological/translational (patient-focused) research.

9. High School Summer Institute of Law

Subject areas: Liberal arts, law and policy

Location: UC Irvine campus (Irvine, CA)

Cost / stipend: Fee - $1,110

Application deadline: Tentative dates are not yet available for 2023.

Program dates: July - August

Eligibility: Open to all high school students.

This 1-week program hosted by UC Irvine helps students hone a variety of skills that are foundational for research, as well as any professional career: analytical reasoning, public speaking, persuasion & argumentation, writing, and negotiation.

10. Stanford’s High School and Pre-Medical Student Summer Internship

Subject areas: Medicine, surgery

Cost / stipend: Fee - $4,095 for the current program (virtual). Scholarships are available .

Program dates: Program 1: June 29 -July 9; Program 2: July 19 - July 30

Eligibility: Juniors or seniors. At least 16 years old when the program begins. No grade requirement.

This 2-week intensive course is geared towards providing high school students with knowledge of and exposure to basic and advanced cardiothoracic surgery and technical skills (e.g., knot tying, dissection, suturing, coronary artery bypass graft, and cardiac valve replacement).

11. UC Berkeley’s The Summer Youth Intensive Program

Subject areas: Chemistry, biochemical chemistry, material science, and related fields

Location: UC Berkeley campus (Berkeley, CA) for 4 weeks on site internship (living on campus). This is following a 9-month remote coaching.

Cost / stipend: Fee - $14,825 (including room and board)

Application deadline: Tentatively May for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Program dates: Remote coaching: October - June. On - site internship: July - August.

Eligibility: Rising students entering grades 9-12. Good to have taken general or AP chemistry. Successful applicants will be among the top 10% of their respective class and must demonstrate maturity, motivation, and excellent communication skills.

This one-year program exposes students to hands-on research experience through group meetings, research seminars and data analysis.

12. UCSD’s Academic Connections Program

Subject areas: Multidisciplinary (For example, music, sociology, engineering, or creative writing)

Location: UC San Diego (San Diego, CA)

Cost / stipend: Fee - $1,500 - online course tuition. $3,000 - commuter course tuition (in person). Need based scholarships are available.

Program dates: Commuter Program: July 11 - July 29. Online Program: July 5 - July 29. (tentative)

Eligibility: Anyone enrolled in high school (freshman to senior). At least 14 years old before the program starts. Cumulative GPA of 3.3 or higher. Recommendation from a teacher or counselor.

25 students are selected to each work individually with a UCSD Faculty researcher during this 6-week long program.

13. UC Irvine’s Math ExpLR Summer Research Program

Subject areas: Biology, mathematics

Cost / stipend: None.

Deadline to apply: Tentatively March for 2023 (based on previous year’s application).

Eligibility: Released with the new application.

Math ExpLR is a 6-week mathematical biology program. Students will be paired with undergraduates and collaborate on a computational biology research project with a principal investigator. There will also be weekly skill development events, such as how to deliver presentations or how to write math on the computer.

14. Asia Art Museum’s Art Speak Internship

Subject area: Art, history, sociology

Location: Asia Art Museum (San Francisco, CA) and also partly virtual.

Cost / stipend: This program provides a stipend (amount unknown).

Application deadline: Tentative dates for 2023 are not yet available. Please join the mailing list to remain updated on applications.

Program dates: August - May

This year-long internship provides unique opportunities and career training for public high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. Interns discover Asian art and cultural traditions, learn from local artists and arts organizations, engage in social justice and youth activism, conduct informational interviews with museum staff to explore careers in the arts, and develop their leadership skills by creating and facilitating hands-on art activities.

15. UCLA Summer Sessions

Subject area: Multidisciplinary

Location: UCLA Campus (Los Angeles, California). Also available online.

Cost / stipend: Fee - Per unit: $1440, further fixed fee: $461. Financial aid is available. Number of units a student opts for can vary.

Application deadline: Tentatively June - August for 2023, on a rolling basis depending on the courses selected (based on previous year’s application).

Program dates: June-August

Students can choose from over 800, 6 to 10-week courses that represent UCLA’s academic breadth. Courses range from liberal arts, foreign language to sciences.

* This program has been taking place virtually because of the COVID pandemic, but it is intended as an on-campus program and may resume from 2023.

If you're looking for a real-world internship that can help boost your resume while applying to college, we recommend Ladder Internships!

Ladder Internships  is a selective program equipping students with virtual internship experiences at startups and nonprofits around the world!  

The startups range across a variety of industries, and each student can select which field they would most love to deep dive into. This is also a great opportunity for students to explore areas they think they might be interested in, and better understand professional career opportunities in those areas. The startups are based all across the world, with the majority being in the United States, Asia and then Europe and the UK. 

The fields include technology, machine learning and AI, finance, environmental science and sustainability, business and marketing, healthcare and medicine, media and journalism and more.

You can explore all the options here on their application form . As part of their internship, each student will work on a real-world project that is of genuine need to the startup they are working with, and present their work at the end of their internship. In addition to working closely with their manager from the startup, each intern will also work with a Ladder Coach throughout their internship - the Ladder Coach serves as a second mentor and a sounding board, guiding you through the internship and helping you navigate the startup environment. 

Cost : $1490 (Financial Aid Available)

Location:   Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.

Application deadline:  April 16 and May 14

Program dates:  8 weeks, June to August

Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week, for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates and gap year students!

Additionally, you can also work on independent research in AI, through Veritas AI's Fellowship Program!

Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students who are passionate about the field of AI a suitable environment to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship.  These programs are designed and run by Harvard graduate students and alumni and you can expect a great, fulfilling educational experience. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI scholars program before pursuing the fellowship.

The   AI Fellowship  program will have students pursue their own independent AI research project. Students work on their own individual research projects over a period of 12-15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. In the past, students have worked on research papers in the field of AI & medicine, AI & finance, AI & environmental science, AI & education, and more! You can find examples of previous projects   here . 

Location : Virtual

$1,790 for the 10-week AI Scholars program

$4,900 for the 12-15 week AI Fellowship 

$4,700 for both

Need-based financial aid is available. You can apply   here . 

Application deadline : On a rolling basis. Applications for fall cohort have closed September 3, 2023. 

Program dates : Various according to the cohort

Program selectivity : Moderately selective

Eligibility : Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit past experience with AI concepts or Python.

Application Requirements: Online application form, answers to a few questions pertaining to the students background & coding experience, math courses, and areas of interest.

One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are passionate about research, you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students that I founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 2100 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the  application form   here .

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.