15 Boston University Pre-College Programs

If BU is on your college list, joining one of Boston University’s pre-college programs is a great way to explore the campus, meet faculty, and see what college life at BU feels like. These programs also allow you to explore your interests and improve your academic abilities, which can strengthen your college applications.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all 15 of Boston University’s pre-college programs that offer unique academic challenges, hands-on learning, and a supportive community so you can find the one that fits your goals and helps you stand out.

• What Are Boston University’s Pre-College Programs?
• Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)
• Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
• Academic Immersion (AIM)
• Center for English Language and Orientation Programs (CELOP)
• CityLab Biotechnology SummerLab
• High School Honors
• Summer Challenge
• Summer Preview
• U-Design
• Upward Bound
• Upward Bound Math Science
• Boston University Summer Theatre Institute (BUSTi)
• Boston University Tanglewood Institute
• Visual Arts Summer Institute
• Camp Terrier
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Are Boston University’s Pre-College Programs?

Boston University’s pre-college programs are designed for middle and high school students who want to explore academic passions, deepen their skills, and experience college-level expectations. Successfully completing these programs shows colleges that you’re dedicated to your passion and willing to spend time and effort outside the classroom to explore it. These programs range from rigorous STEM research like RISE to world-class arts training at BUTI.

Here’s a quick overview of the 15 BU offerings:

We’ll explore each of these Boston University’s high school summer programs in more detail below.

1. Research in Science & Engineering (RISE)

• Dates: Residential: June 28–August 7; Commuter: June 29–August 7
• Eligibility: Rising seniors; U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Program cost: 2025 commuter cost: $6,185; 2025 estimated residential cost: ~$10,289 (2026 rates pending) + $75 application fee and $1,000 deposit; limited need-based financial aid available

RISE is one of the most competitive Boston University pre-college programs, giving students six weeks of university-level STEM research.

You can apply to the Internship track, where you’ll work 40 hours a week in a BU laboratory under the guidance of faculty and graduate mentors across various fields, including biology, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, psychology, and public health.

If you prefer a more structured environment, the Practicum track offers daily lectures and guided group research in Computational Neurobiology or Data Science. You also get the chance to visit local companies—past cohorts have gone to Alnylam Pharmaceuticals and Broad Discovery Center.

Both tracks lead to a final Poster Symposium, where you present your findings.

Applicants must submit transcripts, three essays, one recommendation, and optional test scores. Internship applicants also list faculty of interest. The application deadline is February 4, 2026, with decisions released 6–8 weeks later.

If you’d like a more detailed breakdown of the BU RISE program, visit our full guide.

2. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

• Dates: June 28–August 8, 2026
• Eligibility: Students ages 14–18 who have completed at least 9th grade; not yet enrolled full-time in college
• Program cost: Up to $7,000 for the six-week residential program; FREE for domestic students with family income under $80,000; generous need-based aid available for all students

PROMYS is one of the most rigorous Boston University pre-college programs for students who want deep, proof-based mathematical exploration.

Over six weeks, you’ll investigate number theory from first principles, develop proofs, and work through challenging problem sets designed to build mathematical independence and creativity by pushing you to experiment, find patterns, and justify your reasoning. The program is residential and highly collaborative, bringing together about 80 students and 25 undergraduate counselors who share a strong passion for mathematics.

To apply for PROMYS, you’ll submit solutions to a challenging problem set (which is the most important part of the application), short-answer responses, a transcript, and one recommendation. The deadline is early March 2026, with decisions released in late April.

Planning to apply to PROMYS and want to maximize your chances? Explore our in-depth guide about the PROMYS program to see if it’s the right fit for you.

3. Academic Immersion (AIM)

• Dates: Session 1 (Psychology & Business): June 28–July 17 (Residential), June 29–July 17 (Commuter) · Session 2 (Medicine, Business & Creative Writing): July 19–August 7 (Residential), July 20–August 7 (Commuter)
• Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
• Program cost: 2025 commuter cost: $5,708; 2025 residential cost: ~$7,497 (2026 rates pending) + $75 application fee and $1,000 deposit; no financial aid available

AIM is a three-week academic immersion experience where you spend your time learning one subject in depth through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on activities, field trips, and guided projects. You can choose one from four:

• Introduction to Experimental Psychology
• Introduction to Medicine
• Creative Writing
• Business

The program also includes structured social events and campus activities, giving you a realistic preview of academic and student life at BU.

To apply, you must submit a transcript, a 500–750-word personal statement, one teacher recommendation, and—for Creative Writing—an additional writing sample. International students must also provide a passport copy and English proficiency scores. AIM has no fixed deadline; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until each course fills, with decisions typically released within one month of application.

If you want to understand what AIM is really like and how to make the most of it, check out our detailed guide.

4. Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP)

• Dates: Offered in Fall 2025, Spring 2026, and Summer 2025 (varies by term)
• Eligibility: Ages 17+; high school seniors, graduates, or professionals; high-beginner English level or above
• Program cost: Intensive English ranges from $3,894–$22,029+ (depends on program length and housing); application fee required; no financial aid available

CELOP is one of Boston University’s most established academic English programs, giving you structured language training while you experience U.S. university life.

If you choose the Intensive English track, you’ll study in 4-, 6-, or 12-week formats, with mornings focused on reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and afternoons spent in electives like business English, STEM English, American culture, or test prep. All instructors hold master’s degrees in TESOL, and you’ll use English daily in academic and social settings.

You can also explore other programs: Part-Time English, Professional English, English Plus Credit, Gateway to the American University, or custom programs. As a CELOP student, you’ll have access to BU facilities, optional on-campus housing, student activities, and advising. Many Boston-area universities waive the TOEFL/IELTS requirement for CELOP graduates, and the program’s alumni have gone on to attend 36 of the top 50 U.S. universities.

To apply, you’ll submit an online application, financial documents, and—if required—proof of English proficiency. CELOP is a strong fit if you want intensive language development and a direct pathway into U.S. university study.

5. CityLab Biotechnology’s SummerLab

• Dates: July 6–August 14, 2026 (session dates vary)
• Eligibility: You must be 15+ by June 30, 2026
• Program cost: Registration fee announced January 2026; scholarships available for students who qualify for free/reduced lunch; no housing provided

SummerLab gives you a hands-on introduction to biomedical research through five commuter-only sessions offered throughout the summer. Each session runs Monday–Friday and welcomes students with no transcripts, recommendations, or test scores required, making it one of BU’s most accessible STEM programs.

The 2026 theme, Gene Editing in Human Disease, allows you to use CRISPR and perform core biotechnology techniques—like bacterial transformation, plasmid minipreps, cell culture, DNA quantitation, nanoencapsulation, and more. You’ll follow the workflow scientists use in modern labs, gaining practical experience rather than just watching demonstrations.

Because sessions fill on a first-come, first-served basis, you’ll want to register early.

6. High School Honors

• Dates: June 28–August 7, 2026 (online courses may follow a different schedule)
• Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
• Program cost: 2025 commuter cost: $7,005; 2025 residential cost: ~$11,109 (2026 rates pending) + $75 application fee and $1,000 deposit; limited need-based aid available for eligible students

High School Honors lets you step directly into college-level academics by taking one or two of Boston University’s undergraduate courses alongside BU students and visiting undergrads. Over six weeks, you can earn up to 8 transferable college credits, explore subjects you may want to major in, and build confidence navigating a university environment.

You’ll choose from 80+ undergraduate courses across fields like biology, computer science, psychology, economics, writing, hospitality, international relations, and more. As a residential student, you’ll live on BU’s campus and get a full college-life experience.

If you prefer not to travel, High School Honors Online lets you earn BU credit remotely while still engaging with BU faculty and classmates around the world.

Applications require a transcript, personal statement, and one teacher recommendation. Financial aid—based on both need and merit—is limited and only available for students taking two courses in the on-campus program.

7. Summer Challenge

• Dates: Session 1: June 14–26 (Residential), June 15–26 (Commuter) · Session 2: July 5–17 (Residential), July 6–17 (Commuter) · Session 3: July 19–31 (Residential), July 20–31 (Commuter)
• Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors
• Program cost: 2025 commuter estimate: $3,660; 2025 residential estimate: ~$5,028 (2026 rates pending) + $75 application fee and $1,000 deposit; no financial aid available

Summer Challenge is a two-week BU pre-college program where you build your own academic experience by choosing two noncredit seminars—one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Seminar options can be grouped into five broad topic areas:

• Health and life sciences
• Business, law, and politics
• Technology and engineering
• Communication and media
• Humanities

Regardless of the seminars you choose, you can expect a mix of lectures, discussions, hands-on projects, and occasional field trips, ending with a final presentation.

Outside the classroom, you’ll be living in BU’s residence halls (if you’re residential) and participating in daily activities. The program also includes an admissions workshop to help you understand the college application process.

To apply, you must submit a transcript and a 500–750-word personal statement; international students must also provide proof of English proficiency. Admissions are rolling, and seminars fill fast, so applying early gives you the best chance of getting your preferred session and seminar choices.

If you’d like a deeper look at the Boston University Summer Challenge—including seminar options and application strategy—check out our full guide.

8. Summer Preview

• Dates: One-week sessions (program on hiatus for 2026)
• Eligibility: Rising 8th, 9th, and 10th graders; students must be 14+ to live on campus
• Program cost: Varies by commuter/residential option

Summer Preview is a one-week introductory pre-college experience where you explore a single academic seminar—such as biology, business, or creative writing—while getting an early taste of college life at Boston University. You’ll learn in small groups, attend lectures led by BU instructors, and engage in hands-on activities according to the subject you chose.

Beyond academics, you participate in planned social events, explore campus and the city of Boston, and meet peers from around the world. You’ll also attend a college admissions workshop that helps you understand how to make the most of your high school years and prepare for future applications. The program is open to both commuters and residential students, though housing is only available if you’re at least 14 by the start date.

Note: Summer Preview will be on hiatus for 2026, but BU encourages students to explore its other pre-college programs.

9. U-Design

• Dates: Session I: July 7–11, 2025 · Session II: July 14–18, 2025
• Eligibility: Rising 6th–9th graders
• Program cost: $650 per workshop; refundable until June 1, 2025

U-Design is a hands-on STEM program where you explore engineering by building, testing, and experimenting with systems.

You can choose one workshop per session:

• Electrifying Discoveries. Learn the fundamentals of electricity and electromagnetism through circuits, motors, security systems, and a personalized take-home toolbox.
• Introduction to Robotics. Build and code LEGO Spike Prime robots, complete design challenges, and compete in a final showcase. No prior experience needed.
• Introduction to Electrical Engineering. Use Arduino microcontrollers and Tinkercad simulations to design and program electronic projects.

Workshops are taught by experienced engineering educators and supported by BU undergraduate mentors. A limited number of scholarships are available for students who qualify for state or federal assistance.

10. Upward Bound

• Dates: School-year academic support + 6-week residential summer program
• Eligibility: Low-income or first-generation students who have started 9th grade and attend a UB target high school (CASH, Brighton, English, Margarita Muñiz, Snowden) or live in a target neighborhood (Dorchester, East Boston, Mattapan, Roxbury)
• Program cost: Completely free; students also receive a small stipend

Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program at Boston University that supports low-income and first-generation students through year-round academic enrichment and a six-week summer residential experience. You’ll take after-school classes during the school year—such as MCAS prep, SAT prep, writing, literature, science, and math—plus structured study hall on BU’s campus.

In the summer, you’ll live in BU’s residence halls from Sunday to Friday while completing six academic courses designed to build your high-school readiness and prepare you for college. The program also includes weekly enrichment activities (such as sports, arts, field trips, and performances), college visits, and an annual College & Career Day. Rising seniors also get the chance to complete a paid internship.

To apply, you must meet TRIO income or first-generation eligibility, attend a target school or live in a target neighborhood, and submit the Upward Bound application for 2025–2026.

11. Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS)

• Dates: School-year tutoring + 6-week residential summer STEM academy
• Eligibility: Low-income or first-generation students at Boston Green Academy, Josiah Quincy Upper School, Chelsea High, Charlestown High, or students living in Chelsea, Dorchester, East Boston, Mattapan, or Roxbury
• Program cost: Free; students also receive a stipend

UBMS is a TRIO program designed to help you strengthen your math and science skills and prepare for STEM majors in college. The program serves 50 students and connects you with BU researchers through hands-on classes, labs, and academic support.

During the school year, you’ll attend after-school classes and study halls on BU’s campus—such as MCAS prep, SAT prep, and Senior Workshop—and take part in STEM-focused vacation week programs like robotics, astronomy, engineering, and green chemistry.

The six-week summer program is residential from Sunday to Friday. You’ll have a weekly full-day lab taught by BU faculty or graduate students and take six academic courses:

• Math (Algebra I–Calculus)
• Science (biology, chemistry, physics, A&P)
• Writing
• Literature
• Test prep or Latin
• Computer science

Enrichment activities include sports, arts, yoga, mock trial, and field trips. Past summers have featured Shakespeare performances, college visits, kayaking, and end-of-summer trips to Washington, DC or New York City.

All UBMS programming is free, and you earn a stipend for participation.

12. Boston University Summer Theatre Institute (BUSTi)

• Dates: Four-week program (on hiatus for 2025; expected to return in 2026)
• Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors (typically ages 15–18)
• Program cost: $3,800 tuition + $300 activity fee + $500 nonrefundable deposit; need-based financial aid available

BUSTi is BU’s four-week, conservatory-style pre-college theatre program for students who want serious, college-level artistic training. You spend the month working with faculty from BU’s College of Fine Arts and Boston’s professional theatre community in classes of usually 8-18 students.

The curriculum is designed to push you as a multi-disciplinary theatre artist: you’ll rehearse daily, collaborate with peers, engage in studio classes, and develop your ability to analyze text, build characters, and take creative risks. While musical theater skills are part of the training, the program centers on acting and storytelling for the stage.

BUSTi awards 4 college credits, which may be transferable depending on the institution. Financial aid is available based on need, and all applicants for aid are automatically considered for the Daniel J. Rabone Memorial Scholarship, which is reserved for students in Greater Boston.

The program is currently on hiatus. However, in previous cycles, applicants have had to submit an online application, headshot, résumé, a personal essay or video statement, one recommendation, and the application fee.

13. Boston University Tanglewood Institute (BUTI)

• Dates: Two-Week Workshops: June 21–July 4, 2026 · Young Artists Programs: July 5–August 15, 2026
• Eligibility: Musicians ages 14–20 (Young Artists Programs: ages 14–19, not yet enrolled full-time in college)
• Program cost: Varies by program; generous merit- and need-based scholarships available

BUTI is one of the top summer training programs for young classical musicians, offering conservatory-level instruction in partnership with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. You’ll train in Lenox, MA—just steps from the Tanglewood Music Center—studying with BU faculty, BSO musicians, and guest artists.

Whether you join a two-week workshop or a six-week Young Artists Program, you’ll spend your days in lessons, ensemble rehearsals, masterclasses, academic classes, and studio work designed to accelerate your technique and musicianship. Students also receive access to most BSO and TMC concerts, making the learning environment uniquely immersive.

BUTI offers programs in strings, winds, brass, percussion, voice, piano, guitar, composition, chamber music, electroacoustic composition, and more. Small program sizes ensure focused, individualized training and a close-knit artistic community.

Admission is highly competitive and based primarily on an audition (live or recorded), plus a personal statement, recommendation, and application fee. The application deadline is January 21, 2026, with decisions released by March 15.

Substantial scholarships are available, and applying for aid does not affect admission.

14. Visual Arts Summer Institute (VASI)

• Dates: June 29–July 24, 2026 (Day program only; no residential housing offered)
• Eligibility: High school students ages 15–18
• Program cost: $3,800 tuition + ~$300 estimated supplies; $80 application fee; limited scholarships available

VASI is a four-week immersive visual arts program designed to help you build a college-ready portfolio and experience an art-school studio environment.

You’ll earn three college credits and work daily in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, and rotating special workshops such as photography or graphic design. However, drawing is the core of the curriculum, so expect extensive observational work, including sessions with nude models, which you must be comfortable with to enroll.

Your schedule runs Monday through Friday with morning and afternoon classes and open studio hours in the evenings. Every student receives a dedicated studio space for the full month, giving you the chance to produce a substantial body of work. The program culminates in a public exhibition in BU’s Gallery 5, where faculty and guest critics review your portfolio.

Application requires submitting a form online, a short essay, $80 fee, and one recommendation. Scholarship applicants are also required to provide a portfolio and a statement of need. It will be reviewed on a rolling basis until spaces are filled.

VASI will run as a commuter-only program for 2026.

15. Camp Terrier

• Dates: Weekly sessions from June 15–August 14, 2026 (9 total sessions; Week 1 is a 4-day week)
• Eligibility: Children ages 5–13 (varies by camp type)
• Program cost: Arts & Recreation / Sports & Recreation: $600/week (member), $720/week (non-member) · Sailing Focus: $700/week (member), $820/week (non-member) · Aerial & Dance Arts: $700–$1,400 (member), $820–$1,640 (non-member) · Extended Day: $130–$160/week

Camp Terrier is BU FitRec’s flagship summer day camp, built to give you an active, memorable, and skill-building summer. The core camp day runs 9:00 a.m.–3:45 p.m., with Extended Day available until 6:00 p.m. All campers rotate through activities such as gym games, climbing, arts & crafts, and recreational swim. Formal swim lessons and progress reports return for Summer 2026.

Camp Terrier offers four tracks:

• Arts & Recreation (Ages 5–8). A mix of creative projects, movement, climbing, games, and swimming.
• Sports & Recreation (Ages 9–12). A multi-sport environment emphasizing teamwork, skills, and healthy competition.
• Sports & Recreation: Sailing Focus (Ages 10–13). Full sailing instruction—rigging, knot-tying, terminology, capsize safety, and independent sailing.
• Aerial & Dance Arts (Ages 8–12). Technique, choreography, aerial work, and a final informal showcase.

To register, you’ll submit all required forms by April 1, 2026, pay in full at registration, and hold an active dependent FitRec membership if you want the member rate. Refunds (minus the $150 deposit) are available until April 1, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do Boston University’s pre-college programs help with college admissions?

Yes—BU’s pre-college programs can strengthen your application, especially if you highlight your academic focus, independence, and campus experience in essays. At AdmissionSight, we’ve worked with many students who used their AIM, RISE, or High School Honors experience to stand out in supplemental essays and teacher recommendations.

2. Which BU summer program is best if I want to apply to Boston University later?

There’s no single “best” program, but RISE, AIM, High School Honors, and PROMYS carry the strongest academic weight. These options show BU—and other top colleges—that you can excel in a rigorous, college-level environment. We often guide students toward programs that align with their future major to maximize admissions impact.

3. Will participating in a BU pre-college program increase my chance of getting into BU?

Completion of a BU summer program does not guarantee admission, but it can make your application more compelling. You’ll build stronger essays, earn potential recommendation letters, and demonstrate genuine interest in BU. Colleges—including BU—value evidence of academic initiative, which these programs clearly provide.

4. Should I choose a program based on my intended major?

Ideally, yes. Admissions officers look for clarity of academic direction, and BU’s programs let you build experience early. For example, RISE is great for STEM applicants, AIM Psychology fits future social science majors, and VASI or BUTI is ideal for arts applicants. At AdmissionSight, we advise students to choose a program that supports the narrative they want to build in applications.

5. What if I’m not sure which BU pre-college program fits my goals?

Start by asking what you want to explore—STEM research, arts training, college credit, or hands-on design. BU offers 15 distinct programs, so there’s an option for every type of learner. If you want help selecting the one that aligns best with your future applications.

Takeaways

• Boston University’s pre-college programs offer academically rich pathways in STEM, research, the arts, humanities, leadership, and recreation—giving you multiple ways to explore your interests in depth. These programs help you clarify potential majors, build academic confidence, and experience what college life at BU is really like.
• Many of Boston University’s high school summer programs feature hands-on research, lab work, studio practice, and even real BU coursework, allowing you to develop meaningful skills you can showcase in applications.
• Selectivity varies widely across BU’s offerings, with programs like RISE, PROMYS, and BUTI among the most competitive and most impactful for future college admissions.
• If you’re not sure which Boston University’s summer program best aligns with your goals, our Private Consulting Program can help you choose strategically and position your experience to strengthen your college application.