A Taste of College Before College
If you’re a high school student wondering what college is really like, or a parent looking for ways to help your teen prepare, summer precollege programs are a great option to explore. These short-term (usually one to six weeks) academic experiences, hosted by colleges and universities, allow students to live on campus, take classes, and explore a range of interests long before freshman year begins. Precollege summer programs let teens preview college academics, explore potential majors, and experience independence in a structured, supportive environment. Students come away with clearer goals, new friendships, and a better sense of what college life is all about.
At Sarah Lawrence College, our summer precollege programs invite motivated high school students to study with our distinguished faculty, engage in seminar-style classes, and experience the spirit of independent, creative inquiry that defines a Sarah Lawrence education.
Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Precollege Programs
General Questions
Who can attend a precollege program?
Most precollege programs are open to rising high school juniors and seniors (grades 11–12). Some programs may also include students about to enter grades 9 or 10, and other programs also accept recent graduates or international students.
- Rising Sophomores (Grade 10): Great for exploring new subjects and building curiosity.
- Rising Juniors (Grade 11): Ideal for resume-building and testing out possible majors.
- Rising Seniors (Grade 12): Perfect for earning credits, writing college essays, and adjusting to college expectations.
Precollege programs are ideal for students who:
- Want to explore academic or career interests
- Hope to stand out in college applications
- Need to build confidence and independence
- Want to meet motivated peers from around the country (or the world!)
What is the difference between a precollege program and a summer camp?
A precollege program focuses on academics and college preparation, while traditional summer camps are usually recreational. Precollege students attend classes and work with college faculty. In residential programs, they typically live in college dorms.
Why should I take a precollege program?
Some of the benefits of precollege programs are:
College Preparation
Precollege programs simulate the real academic pace of college life. Students attend lectures, participate in small seminars, complete projects, and learn to manage deadlines. These are skills that make your first year in college far less intimidating.
Admissions Edge
Admissions officers appreciate students who show initiative and intellectual curiosity. Completing a precollege program demonstrates academic drive, maturity, and engagement, which are all qualities that strengthen college applications.
Some colleges, like Sarah Lawrence, allow you to apply for a special Early Decision outside the regular Early Decision process.
College Credit and/or Portfolio
Some programs, especially at colleges like Sarah Lawrence, grant college credit. Others, such as art or writing intensives, produce portfolios, performances, or publications that can be used in college applications.
Confidence & Independence
Being on campus helps teens gain independence and personal responsibility. Students often form lasting friendships with peers who share their passions.
Take a closer look at the benefits of precollege summer programs
Academics & College Prep
Do students earn college credit in precollege programs?
Some precollege programs offer college credit that may transfer to a future degree, while others are non-credit enrichment courses. Check each program’s description for details.
What subjects can I study in a precollege program?
There’s a precollege program for nearly every interest! The key is finding one that fits your goals.
Arts & Humanities Programs
For creative students interested in visual arts, music, theater, or dance.
Programs such as Sarah Lawrence's Precollege Visual Arts program give students a chance to work in a college-level art studio, learn from working artists, and produce a portfolio they can use for college applications.
Writing Programs
For aspiring authors, poets, or journalists.
Programs like the Sarah Lawrence's Writers' Week help teens refine their voice and learn from working writers.
STEM Programs
For future scientists, engineers, and tech innovators.
Examples: The Sarah Lawrence College Hudson River Ecology program, robotics, computer coding, and biomedical research.
General Liberal Arts Programs
These mirror the experience of a liberal arts college. Students explore literature, psychology, history, or philosophy in small, discussion-based classes.
Specialized & Career-Focused Programs
For students exploring fields like law, business, medicine, or sustainability. Some focus on global leadership, community engagement, or social impact.
How can a precollege program help with college admissions?
Completing a precollege program shows initiative, curiosity, and a commitment to learning, all qualities that strengthen a student’s college application and personal essay. Some programs allow you to produce a portfolio of college-level work for use with a college application.
Some colleges, like Sarah Lawrence, allow precollege participants to apply for a special Early Decision outside the regular Early Decision process.
Timing & Applications
When should I apply for a summer precollege program?
Applications typically open around October or November and close between March and May. Highly competitive programs may fill earlier.
Application Tips
- Apply early. Financial aid funds and program spots at prestigious colleges tend to fill quickly, often by March or April.
- Show genuine interest. Write essays about what you want to learn, not what sounds impressive.
- Stay organized. Track application requirements and deadlines.
What do I need for my application?
Many applications require a short essay, a transcript, and sometimes a teacher recommendation. Some arts programs ask for a creative portfolio or audition video.
At Sarah Lawrence, no additional documentation is need for the Writers' Week and Hudson River Ecology programs. However, responses to question prompts and submission of works are required for the Visual Arts program.
Can international students apply to U.S. precollege programs?
Yes. Many colleges welcome international students, though visa or English language requirements may apply.
Costs & Financial Aid
How much do summer precollege programs cost?
Most programs at prestigious colleges cost between $4,000 and $7,000 for three to four weeks for a commuter-based program. Residential programs, which include housing and meals, typically cost an additional $1,000 per week.
Some programs charge additional fees and do not include supplies for arts programs. Commuter programs may not include lunch.
Other programs, like those at Sarah Lawrence College, include supplies, lunch (for full-day programs), and have no additional fees.
Is financial aid available for precollege programs?
Some colleges offer scholarships, need-based aid, or payment plans for qualified students. Some also partner with nonprofits to make programs more accessible.
At Sarah Lawrence College, scholarships are available for Writers Week.