Student Life

Joining the Precollege Program at Sarah Lawrence College means becoming part of a creative, close-knit community that values independence, collaboration, and self-expression. Students experience the excitement of college-level study within a supportive environment designed for balance, safety, and growth.

Our Precollege Programs are prestigious summer programs for high school students that bring high school students together to explore their interests, learn from experienced faculty, and discover what it is like to study on a college campus.

Whether students live on campus or commute each day, they are welcomed into an engaging community of peers who are curious, motivated, and ready to learn.

Choose the Experience That Works for You

Students may participate as residential students or commuters. Both options provide full access to their program's classes, workshops, faculty, facilities, and scheduled activities.

Program dates, daily schedules, and included services vary, so students and families should review the details for the specific program they are considering.

Residential students live on campus for the duration of their program, giving them the opportunity to experience college life more fully. Outside the classroom, they can build friendships, take part in scheduled activities, and develop greater independence within a structured and supportive environment.

Commuter students travel to campus each day and return home after their program activities conclude. This option allows local students to take part in an immersive college-level learning experience while maintaining their usual home routines and family commitments.

Balancing Independence, Community, and Study

Precollege study can be exciting and demanding. Program schedules are designed to combine focused academic or creative work with breaks, meals, and opportunities to connect with other students. Residential students also have structured time outside class, while commuter students can balance their studies with life at home.

Throughout the experience, students practice the time-management, communication, and self-advocacy skills that will serve them well in college. Faculty and program staff are available to provide guidance and help students navigate this new level of independence.

Housing pricing and application forms will be available soon.

Getting to Campus

Sarah Lawrence College is located in Bronxville, New York, just 30 minutes north of Manhattan by train.

By Train:
Students can take the Metro North Railroad (Harlem Line) to the Bronxville Station, where a free campus shuttle runs between the station and the College.

By Car:
Limited parking is available on campus for commuting students. Directions and parking permits are provided after enrollment.

Residential Arrival and Departure

Residential students and their families will receive detailed check-in, check-out, housing, and arrival information before the start of the program.

Meals

Students share meals in the College's dining facilities, with a variety of options available. The meals included depend on whether a student is enrolled as a residential student or commuter and on the schedule of the specific program.

Commuter-based programs include lunch and snacks. Residential programs include three meals each full day of the program.

We take dietary needs seriously. Participants will complete dietary and allergy information before the program begins so that the College can plan appropriate accommodations. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Safety and Well-Being

Sarah Lawrence College is deeply committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for every Precollege student..

Campus Safety officers are on duty 24 hours a day, and program spaces are reserved for enrolled students, faculty, and staff. Faculty and program staff supervise classes and scheduled group activities, while residential students receive additional support and supervision outside program hours.

In an emergency, the College has established communication protocols to provide immediate assistance and keep students and families informed.

We prioritize the well-being of every student so that participants and their families can feel confident throughout the program.

A Supportive and Inspiring Summer

At Sarah Lawrence, we know that artistic and intellectual growth happen best when students feel safe, supported, and inspired. That’s why our Precollege Programs emphasize not just creative challenge, but also community, connection, and care.

Students will learn to balance responsibility and freedom, collaborate with peers who share their passions, and discover what it’s like to be part of a creative college campus campus. Whether they choose the residential or commuter experience, they leave with new skills, greater confidence, and a clearer sense of what college can be.