Students earn college credit and an official Harvard transcript, demonstrating their ability to succeed at rigorous university-level study.
The Harvard Summer School Secondary School Program (SSP) offers motivated high school students a rigorous, credit-bearing college-level experience. Students can choose between a 4-week residential program or a 7-week program with residential, online, or commuting options. Participants enroll in one or two college courses taught by Harvard faculty and distinguished visiting faculty, covering over 50 subject areas including STEM, humanities, and social sciences. The program emphasizes academic rigor, with an expected 8 to 12 hours of independent study per week for each 4-credit course. Beyond academics, students engage in a variety of social and college-readiness activities, such as college counseling Q&As, workshops on college essay writing and financial aid, and campus tours to other universities. Living on campus provides an immersive university experience, with access to Harvard's libraries, athletic facilities, and student centers. The program aims to expand academic skills, build confidence for college, and help students explore potential majors and career paths.
A typical day for a residential student involves waking up around 7:30 AM for breakfast and socializing with friends, followed by studying in a library before attending classes. After classes, students might go to the gym, take a walk, or participate in extracurricular activities before dinner and evening social events in the dorms.
This program is best for ambitious high school students aged 16-18 who are ready for a genuine university-level academic experience and want to earn college credit while exploring potential majors and career paths.
Harvard University, Cambridge, MA
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