You might be wondering what a pre-college program actually is. It’s exactly what it sounds like—a program that happens in the summer to help prepare you for what’s ahead, both academically and socially. While it may sound exciting, you may want to know how you find the one that’s right for you. What’s it really like? How much does it cost? Not to worry-–in this guide, we’ll cover all these questions and more.
What Is a Pre-College Program?
A pre-college program usually takes place in the summer and lasts anywhere from one to seven weeks. It is your opportunity to experience a taste of college life. Whether it’s creative writing, leadership, entrepreneurship, or even engineering, there’s a program for every interest. Some allow you to live in dorm rooms alongside other students, while others are commuter-friendly if you live close by. Here are the two types of pre-college programs you’re most likely to find:
- Academic Programs: These programs allow you to take college-level coursework in various subjects. This can strengthen your college application and help you get clarity on your goals.
- Enrichment Programs: These programs are all about enhancing your personal growth. You’ll focus on a specific area of interest, while also learning by attending seminars and workshops centered around all things college.
Does the Location Matter?
For many students, the location is one of the most important considerations for choosing a pre-college program. Maybe you’ve had your eye on a dream school for as long as you can remember—this could be your chance to see if it’s really the right fit. This could be your chance to see if the school feels like the right fit for you and if it aligns with your future career goals.
But if you’re not sure which college you want to attend, or you’re more focused on exploring a subject you’re curious about, that’s okay too. A pre-college program can still help you figure things out. Want to save some money and stay close to home? Plenty of local programs could be a perfect match. Or maybe you’re seeking a summer adventure—you could check out programs offered in big cities like New York, or somewhere that’s surrounded by nature, like Colorado. At the end of the day, you’re not only there for academics, but also to see where you might thrive as a college student.
What Are the Benefits?
Sure, you get to take college-level courses and maybe even live on campus, but what does that really mean for you? Let’s look at the perks that come with attending a pre-college program.
- Test the Waters: Not sure what you want to study? These programs let you dip your toes into different subjects—no pressure, no commitment.
- Attend Social Opportunities: Outside the classroom, you’ll have the chance to join activities to help you connect with others.
- Make New Friends: Between classes and events, there’s plenty of time to build friendships that could last way beyond the program.
- Get the Best of Both Worlds: You’ll get a glimpse of college life—academics, socializing, and all—in a supportive, low-pressure environment.
- Build Your Network: Meet peers, professors, and program leaders who could become future classmates, mentors, or even career connections down the road.
- Participate in College Prep Workshops: Many programs include workshops on navigating the college search process, understanding financial aid and scholarships, and nailing your application essays.
- Get Clear on Your Goals: By the end of the program, you could have a better idea of what you want to study and where you’ll thrive as a student.
Can Anyone Participate in a Pre-College Program?
Each program has its own eligibility requirements, but most are designed for rising juniors and seniors and take place during the summer. Most programs require an application which may include essays, teacher recommendations, and sometimes even test scores. You should always check the college’s website for program details so you can know what’s expected ahead of time.
What Pre-College Programs Can I Choose in 2025?
Whether you are looking for a shorter or longer experience, a general or specific program, or looking for a specific location, there’s sure to be a program out there that fits your needs. Here are 145 schools that offer pre-college programs:
State |
College |
| Alabama | Auburn University, Tuskegee University, University of Alabama |
| Arizona | Arizona State University, University of Arizona |
| California | California College of Arts, Loyola Marymount University, California State University, Monterey Bay, Otis College of Art and Design, UC Davis, UCLA, UC San Diego, University of Southern California, University of the Pacific |
| Colorado | Colorado College, University of Colorado Boulder, UCCS, University of Colorado Denver, U.S. Air Force Academy |
| Connecticut | Connecticut College, Eastern Connecticut State University, University of Connecticut, University of New Haven, U.S. Coast Guard Academy |
| Delaware | Delaware State University, University of Delaware |
| District of Columbia | American University, The Catholic University of America, George Washington University, Georgetown University |
| Florida | Florida International University, Florida State University, University of Florida, University of Miami, University of South Florida |
| Georgia | Emory University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Savannah College of Art and Design, Spelman College, University of Georgia |
| Illinois | Illinois Institute of Technology, Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
| Indiana | Indiana University Bloomington, Purdue University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, University of Notre Dame |
| Iowa | University of Iowa |
| Kentucky | Kentucky State University, University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University |
| Louisiana | Louisiana State University, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, Xavier University of Louisiana |
| Maine | Colby College, Maine College of Art & Design, University of Maine |
| Maryland | Johns Hopkins University, Maryland Institute College of Art, St. John’s College, University of Maryland, U.S. Naval Academy |
| Massachusetts | Babson College, Bentley University, Berklee College of Music, Boston University, Brandeis University, Dean College, Emerson College, Hampshire College, Harvard University, Smith College, Springfield College, University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Worcester Polytechnic Institute |
| Michigan | Michigan State University, Michigan Tech, University of Michigan |
| Minnesota | Carleton College, Minneapolis College of Art and Design |
| Missouri | Maryville University, Saint Louis University, University of Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis |
| New Hampshire | Dartmouth College, University of New Hampshire |
| New Jersey | Centenary University, Drew University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Monmouth University, Princeton University, Rider University, Rowan University, Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of Technology |
| New Mexico | St. John’s College—Santa Fe University of New Mexico, New Mexico Tech |
| New York | Adelphi University, Alfred University, Barnard College, City College of New York, Cornell University, Hofstra University, Ithaca College, Marist College Poughkeepsie, Mercy College Dobbs, New York Institute of Technology, New York University, Parsons School of Design: The New School, Pratt Institute, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, The Rockefeller University, Sarah Lawrence College, School of Visual Arts, Skidmore College, Stony Brook University, SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology, SUNY Oneonta, Syracuse University, Union College, University at Buffalo, University of Rochester, U.S. Military Academy, Vassar College |
| North Carolina | Duke University, NC State University, UNC Asheville, UNC Charlotte, UNC Chapel Hill, UNC Greensboro, Wake Forest University |
| Ohio | Bowling Green State University, Columbus College of Art and Design |
| Oklahoma | University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University |
| Oregon | Lewis & Clark College |
| Pennsylvania | Bucknell University, Carnegie Mellon University, Drexel University, Gettysburg College, Lehigh University, Penn State Berks, Penn State New Kensington, Penn State University Park, Penn State York, Susquehanna University, University of Pittsburgh |
| Rhode Island | Brown University, Bryant University, Rhode Island School of Design |
| South Carolina | Clemson University |
| South Dakota | South Dakota School of Mines & Technology |
| Tennessee | Sewanee: The University of the South, Vanderbilt University |
| Texas | Rice University, Texas Tech University, University of Houston, University of Texas at Austin |
| Vermont | Landmark College |
| Virginia | College of William & Mary, Hollins University, University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech |
| Washington | University of Washington |
| Wisconsin | Beloit College, University of Wisconsin-Madison |
| Wyoming | University of Wyoming |
Source: ESM PrepCollege MatchPoint
How Much Do Pre-College Programs Cost?
Pre-college programs can be expensive, often costing a few thousand dollars. However, they do often include a meal plan and room and board with the program fee. For example, Harvard’s pre-college program costs $5,800, whereas Brown’s program costs $8,006. If seeing those numbers feels overwhelming, don’t stress—many programs offer financial aid for those in need.
Making the Most of Your Time in Pre-College Programs
If you’re accepted into a pre-college program—congrats! This is your chance to get a head start on your college experience, so make it count. Here’s how to make the most of your time there:
- Research Before You Go: Before you pack your bags, take some time to research the program. Understand the curriculum, the schedule, and any opportunities available. The last thing you want is to end up spending your summer at a place that isn’t going to be helpful for your future goals.
- Participate: If there is something on the itinerary—workshops, events, social gatherings—do it! The more you engage, the more you’ll get out of the experience.
- Connect with People: You will have the chance to meet with so many people—peers, mentors, and professors. Take advantage of these opportunities and connect with as many people as you can.
- Stay Open-Minded: During your time, you may discover new interests or learn something surprising about yourself. This is a reminder to be open to the experience—it’s all a part of your journey!
Should You Attend a Pre-College Program?
Pre-college programs are an incredible opportunity to prepare for college. They give you a head start by giving you a taste of college classes along with what it’s like to be immersed in life on campus. When it comes time to step foot onto your campus as a college freshman, you’ll already have the tools to hit the ground running and make the most of your college experience. If the opportunity feels right for you, it’s worth considering.
With thousands of colleges and universities in the US, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which is best for you. Maybe you’re looking to stay close to home, or maybe you’re dreaming of jet-setting across the country. Whatever your goals, College Raptor’s free College Match tool can connect you with a school that feels just right.
