Program Overview

Introduction to the Summer Scholars Program

The Summer Scholars Program is a selective, week-long summer experience for academically talented high school students who will be juniors or seniors the following fall. The curriculum for this program is built for active learners, allowing students to dive deeply into a specific academic topic, participate in lively discussions and hands-on projects, and forge connections with Miami faculty and peers.

Program Details

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Summer Scholars Program, students must:

• Complete their sophomore or junior year of high school by June 30 of the year they would attend Summer Scholars and not graduate from high school before the following January.
• Demonstrate strong academic ability in a challenging curriculum. Students typically have a high school grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.

Application

To be considered for the Summer Scholars Program, students must apply online when the application is available. They will be asked to submit a 200- to 300-word statement about their interest in the program. Their high school counselor must send the following items:

• High School transcript (including the current-year schedule)
• Letter of recommendation
• Record of any college aptitude test (Pre-ACT, PSAT, ACT, SAT). Test scores are optional.
• If English is not the student's native language, they must submit their TOEFL scores or a letter from their English teacher certifying their English language skills.

Program Fees

The total cost for the Summer Scholars Program is $1,080, which includes:

• Enrollment Fee: $350 (due at the time of confirmation)
• Program Fee: $730 (all-inclusive, covering instruction fees, materials, housing, meals, and daily scheduled activities)

Financial Aid

There are a limited number of need-based financial scholarships available for students to attend this program. Students who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must submit verification of eligibility for free/reduced school lunch along with their counselor's recommendation.

Program Structure

Sessions

The 2026 program takes place over two sessions:

• Session 1: Sunday, July 5 - Friday, July 10
• Session 2: Sunday, July 12 - Friday, July 17

Daily Schedule

A typical day for Summer Scholars includes:

• Class sessions from approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Lunch break from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Special workshops designed to prepare students for the competitive college application process after dinner.
• Evening activities and optional programming hosted in the residence hall.

Attendance and Participation

Attendance at all class sessions, workshops, and formally sponsored program activities and events is mandatory. Exceptions will be made only in extenuating circumstances at the discretion of the Summer Scholars Program team.

Facilities and Services

Meal Plan

The meal plan is attached to the student's ID card, which can be used like a debit card at university dining locations. Students have a balance of $175 to use during their stay.

Recreational Facilities

For $20, students can purchase a pass to use the aquatic and fitness facilities at the Miami Recreational Sports Center. Their ID card also allows access throughout their Summer Scholars session.

Printing Services

Miami offers printing services across campus in all libraries. Charges for printing may apply.

Policies

Single Room Request

Single rooms are limited and reserved for extenuating circumstances. There is an additional charge for single room occupancy. Requests should be submitted in advance and will be evaluated based on availability.

Leaving the Program

Students are not permitted to leave and return during the program, as it is designed to be a comprehensive, week-long experience.

Next Steps

After confirming enrollment, students must complete and submit several forms, including the Youth Program Participant Information and Liability Waiver Form, Program Travel Form, Student Code of Conduct Form, and Climbing Wall Waiver (if applicable). These forms become available online after submitting the Intent to Enroll form and enrollment deposit.