Program Overview

ACADEMY Program Overview

The ACADEMY program is a week-long summer camp designed for academically gifted and highly motivated students with a passion for learning. The program includes a variety of classes, cultural events, and recreational activities, providing a platform for intellectually curious students to connect with peers and nurture their love for learning.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ACADEMY program, applicants must:

• Have completed 5th 10th grade
• Maintain a GPA of 3.4 or higher
• Display above-average intelligence, leadership skills, special talents, exceptional abilities in visual and performing arts, and/or unique, creative, or critical thinking skills

Camp Schedule and Sessions

The ACADEMY program is held on the Southern Oregon University campus. The 2026 camp will be held from Sunday, June 21st Saturday, June 27th. There are three sessions:

• Session 1: 5th and 6th graders
• Session 2: 7th and 8th graders
• Session 3: 9th and 10th graders
• All sessions run simultaneously and last for one week.
• 11th and 12th graders can apply to become Junior Counselors, assisting college-aged Senior Counselors with Session 1 and 2 campers.

Tuition and Cancellation Policy

• The weekly camper tuition for 2026 is set at $900, with a discount of $60 from previous years.
• The Junior Counselor tuition is $675.
• There is a $25 discount for returning students and a $25 sibling discount.
• All students can apply for ACADEMY tuition assistance based on their demonstrated financial need.
• The cancellation policy applies to all cancellations, regardless of reason:
  • Cancellation of camp attendance a week or more before camp begins: full refund, minus the $50 cancellation fee.
  • Cancellations less than one week before camp begins: 50% refund, minus the $50 cancellation fee.
  • Cancellation after the start date: no refund or account credit.

Community Groups and Counselors

• Students are placed in co-gender community groups consisting of 10-12 students.
• The Community Group Counselor assigned to each student plays a significant role in their experience.
• Counselors are college students with a background in youth programs and counseling, chosen for their leadership abilities and passion for engaging with young individuals.

Roommate Requests

• While roommate requests are accommodated, students are encouraged to branch out and meet new peers.
• To request a specific roommate, students can do so through a designated section in the post-acceptance forms.
• Both students must indicate their roommate preference on their applications for the request to be considered.

Residential Halls

• ACADEMY students reside on the Southern Oregon University campus.
• Students are accommodated in rooms on the same floor as a Senior Counselor.
• Students are housed in single-gender halls.
• Alternative living arrangements can be made for students with special needs.

Meals and Dietary Accommodations

• All meals are provided at The Hawk, located within the residential Raider Village on the SOU campus.
• Students can choose from a diverse selection of nutritious and balanced meals.
• Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are regularly offered.
• Special arrangements can be made for students with food allergies or sensitivities.
• Dietary restrictions and allergies should be documented as part of the student paperwork upon acceptance.

Letter of Recommendation

The camp letter of recommendation can be accessed via the provided PDFs for each session.

Session 3 for 9th and 10th Graders

ACADEMY Session 3 is a week-long overnight experience designed specifically for students in 9th and 10th grade. The program combines leadership development and personal visioning with practical college and career readiness, providing an immersive camp experience that fuels future planning in a high-energy, fun environment.

Counselors, Head Residents, and Course Instructors

ACADEMY would not be possible without the support of its counselors and program staff. The program encourages individuals to apply to open positions, including Junior Counselors, Senior Counselors, Head Residents, and Instructors.