Top 10 Math Programs for High School Students

Are you aiming to get into a math-intensive major and career, like engineering or mathematics? Or maybe you’re just really passionate about math and want to see where it can take you? There are math programs for high school students that will broaden and improve your understanding and skills in math. We’ll list 10 of them in this article and discuss why they’re worth a shot.

• 1. Ross Mathematics Program
• 2. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)
• 3. Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)
• 4. Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP)
• 5. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
• 6. AwesomeMath
• 7. MIT PRIMES (Program for Research in Mathematics, Engineering, and Science)
• 8. Mathnasium
• 9. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
• 10. Canada/USA Mathcamp
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

1. Ross Mathematics Program

Location: Otterbein University (Columbus, Ohio) and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology (Terre Haute, Indiana)

Fee: $7,000

Eligibility: 15-18 years old for first-year students, though exceptions are made for younger or older students in rare cases

2025 Program dates: June 15 to July 25

The Ross Program is a six-week residential summer session with the motto “Think deeply about simple things.” This hints at its unique approach to learning, which makes it one of the best math summer programs for high school students.

Unlike traditional school curricula or other math programs that typically cover several topics, Ross revolves around number theory. You’ll spend the entire summer going into the properties of integers, starting with basic concepts like prime numbers and modular arithmetic, and progressively moving towards more complex ideas.

Another unique aspect of the Ross Program is its emphasis on independent thinking and collaborative learning. Yes, there are daily number theory lectures and small “family group” discussions led by counselors, but a large portion of the students’ time is actually unstructured. This gives you time to face challenging problems at your own pace while still collaborating with peers and counselors to deepen your understanding.

To learn more about the program, check out our comprehensive guide to the Ross Mathematics Program.

2. Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

Location: Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts

Fee: $7,000

Eligibility: At least 14 years old, completed 9th grade (or its equivalent)

2025 Program dates: June 29 to August 9

The Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS) is an intensive six-week residential summer program. Similar to the Ross Program, PROMYS emphasizes a “discovery-based” approach to learning mathematics. Its central philosophy is that students learn best by grappling with challenging problems, making their own conjectures, and constructing rigorous proofs.

The program’s core revolves around daily problem sets, mostly in number theory for first-year students. These problems are challenging to lead you through a process of exploration, observation, hypothesis formation, and proof.

An important skill developed at this math program for high school students is the ability to write clear, logical, and rigorous mathematical proofs. You’ll get regular feedback from your counselors on your proofs to help you refine your mathematical communication and reasoning.

For a deeper look into the program, explore our detailed guide to PROMYS.

3. Hampshire College Summer Studies in Mathematics (HCSSiM)

Location: Hampshire College (Amherst, Massachusetts)

Fee: $6,511

Eligibility: Anyone, typically those who have completed their sophomore or junior year. Younger students who have completed 9th grade and taken advanced math courses may also be considered.

2025 Program dates: June 29 to August 9

HCSSiM’s application process is quite unique, requiring you to answer a challenging “Interesting Test.” The program values thoughtful attempts and explanations over simply getting the right answer. Because of that, the test is more of an assessment of a student’s problem-solving abilities, creativity, and mathematical thinking process rather than testing knowledge.

The daily schedule includes dedicated “Prime Time Theorem” sessions, where new mathematical ideas or proofs are presented, and “math movies” on Wednesdays, which offer a different perspective on mathematical concepts or history.

This math program for high school students aims to develop your mathematical maturity, helping you think deeply, engage with complex ideas, articulate your reasoning clearly through proofs, and appreciate the elegance and joy of math.

Beyond the rigorous academics, HCSSiM also encourages a balanced summer. On afternoons, you can expect rest, recreation, and student-led activities, creating a strong social environment and allowing for personal well-being alongside intellectual growth.

4. Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP)

Location: Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora, Illinois)

Fee: Free

Eligibility: By invitation only (students who had an outstanding performance in the USAMO or USAJMO)

2025 Program dates: June 29 to July 19

The Mathematical Olympiad Program (MOP), formerly known as the Mathematical Olympiad Summer Program (MOSP), is a highly selective and intensive summer training math program for high school students sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA).

Its primary purpose is to identify and train the most promising high school mathematicians in the United States to represent the country at the prestigious International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). However, MOP also aims to broaden your perspectives on math, which can ignite your enthusiasm for further study and equip you with advanced problem-solving skills that are great for any STEM field.

The program focuses on olympiad-style problem-solving, which requires you to have deep mathematical knowledge, creative thinking, logical rigor, and the ability to construct concise proofs.

This math program for high school students is known for its demanding schedule. Days are filled with classes, practice tests, and problem-solving sessions. Timed, graded olympiad-style tests are administered frequently, giving you realistic competition experience and immediate feedback.

Want to understand MOP better? Check out our in-depth guide to the program.

5. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)

Location: Stanford University (Stanford, California) or online

Fee: $8,575 (residential), $3,580 (online)

Eligibility: Grades 10-11

2025 Program dates: June 22 to July 18 (residential), June 16 to July 4 (online), July 7 to July 25 (online)

The Stanford University Mathematics Camp is one of the online math programs for high school students that you definitely check out if you don’t think you can attend on-site programs.

SUMaC is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and its focus on proof-based mathematics. The program offers two tracks: Abstract Algebra and Number Theory, and Algebraic Topology.

Regardless of your track, the program days are typically structured with lectures from Stanford faculty and experienced instructors, followed by dedicated problem-solving sessions. These sessions are usually facilitated by teaching assistants (TAs), many of whom are Stanford undergraduates or graduate students, providing personalized guidance and feedback.

SUMaC is an excellent preparation if you’re aspiring to pursue mathematics or other STEM fields at highly competitive universities. It exposes you to the style and rigor of college-level coursework, helping them develop the foundational skills and intellectual habits needed for advanced study.

Learn all about SUMaC in our comprehensive program guide.

6. AwesomeMath

Location: Online

Fee: $1,275 to $1,575

Eligibility: Middle and high school students

2025 Program dates: June 9 to June 27, June 30 to July 18, July 21 to August 8

The AwesomeMath program is one of the best fully online math programs for high school students that introduces you to diverse areas of mathematics that are important for success in STEM careers and mathematical competitions.

You’ll be consistently challenged with a wide range of non-routine, competition-style problems within a classroom environment that’s designed to be collaborative and supportive.

However, the ultimate goal for many participants is to improve their performance in national and international math contests. Because of that, the curriculum is still designed to cover the core areas of competitive mathematics. In fact, the topics are taught at various levels, from beginner to advanced, usually aligned with AMC 8, AMC 10, AMC 12, AIME, and USA(J)MO difficulty levels.

AwesomeMath is actually open year-round, but for its summer program, classes typically meet five days a week, usually with a 90-minute lecture followed by a 60-minute problem-solving session. Daily assignments provide opportunities for practice and feedback. Office hours are also available if you need additional help.

Explore the AwesomeMath program through our complete breakdown and insights.

7. MIT PRIMES (Program for Research in Mathematics, Engineering, and Science)

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, Massachusetts)

Fee: Free

Eligibility: High school students living in the Greater Boston area

Program dates: Year-long

MIT PRIMES is another of the best math programs for high school students. It’s a year-long research program that’s designed to give you a taste of what it’s really like to be a research mathematician or scientist.

If you’re accepted as a participant, work on a single, open-ended research project divided into four phases:

• Phase I (January – March). Advanced reading period. Students receive recommended readings from their mentors to build foundational knowledge for their project.
• Phase II (March – May). Active research period. Students begin working on their core research project under close mentorship.
• Phase III (June – August). Independent study period. Students continue their work with more flexibility, allowing for participation in summer programs if they want.
• Phase IV (September – December). Write-up and presentation period. Students finalize their research, prepare a paper, and present their findings at the annual PRIMES conference in mid-October.

But don’t worry, you won’t go into this blind. Each student or pair of students is matched with a mentor, who provides individualized guidance, introduces students to relevant literature, helps them formulate research questions, and oversees their progress.

Read our comprehensive guide to MIT PRIMES to learn more about the program.

8. Mathnasium

Location: Online and various locations in the US

Fee: $160 to $400+ per month

Eligibility: Elementary to high school students

Program dates: Ongoing year-round

Mathnasium is a widely recognized learning center franchise dedicated exclusively to teaching mathematics to students of all ages. Its programs follow the “Mathnasium Method,” which basically addresses individual learning styles and paces so students grasp mathematical concepts and internalize them for long-term retention and application.

This is possible since at the start of your Mathnasium journey, you’ll get a comprehensive diagnostic assessment. The test pinpoints your exact strengths and weaknesses and identifies any foundational gaps in your understanding.

Your progress is also continuously tracked. You undergo “mastery checks” as you complete topics on your learning path to see how well you can show your proficiency.

Parents receive regular progress reports, and the center director is available to discuss a student’s progress and learning plan. “Post-assessments” are also conducted when a learning plan is completed or deemed appropriate to compare pre- and post-program proficiency.

9. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

Location: UC Davis, Irvine, Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Cruz (California)

Fee: $5,256

Eligibility: Grades 8 to 12, primarily California residents

2025 Program dates: July 6 to August 1

The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a four-week residential summer program offering immersive, hands-on research experience.

COSMOS is one of the best math programs for high school students since it introduces you to mathematical concepts and methodologies far beyond the scope of a standard high school curriculum. This includes discrete mathematics, advanced geometry and topology, and mathematical modeling.

Many math-focused clusters are interdisciplinary, showing you how math is applied to solve complex problems in science, engineering, and technology. In fact, while traditional math can be abstract, COSMOS often incorporates hands-on activities, lab work, and computational projects to reinforce theoretical concepts.

You can expect to engage in data analysis, simulations, or programming to explore mathematical ideas. You’ll cultivate logical thinking, precision, and a deep understanding of why mathematical statements are true. All this can give you a broader perspective on the use and power of math.

Want to learn more about COSMOS? Check out our full guide.

10. Canada/USA Mathcamp

Location: Lewis & Clark College (Portland, Oregon)

Fee: $6,600

Eligibility: Ages 13 to 18

2025 Program dates: June 29 to August 3

Mathcamp offers an incredibly diverse range of courses, from introductory proof techniques for those new to advanced math to highly specialized topics you’ll usually see at the graduate level.

This is a unique math program for high school students where everything is optional. You’ll have the freedom to choose from a wide array of classes offered each week.

There are generally four class periods each day, with multiple classes running simultaneously at different difficulty levels. This allows you to tailor your learning experience to your specific interests and mathematical maturity, whether you want to dive deep into one area or explore many different subjects.

Admission to Mathcamp is really selective, requiring you to answer a challenging “Qualifying Quiz.” This quiz assesses your mathematical creativity, problem-solving skills, persistence, and ability to present mathematical arguments. You don’t need to complete all the questions since your approach to problems and the clarity of proofs are more important.

Interested in Mathcamp? Our in-depth overview covers everything you need to know.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best math to take in high school?

If you’re planning to take a math-intensive college program and career path, the best math classes to take in high school are Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalculus, and ideally Calculus (AP Calculus AB or BC).

2. Which school has the best math program?

Some of the best math schools in the US are MIT, Harvard, and Stanford. For colleges outside the country, the University of Oxford and Cambridge University have great math programs too.

3. What’s the hardest math course in high school?

Perhaps the hardest math course in high school is calculus. However, difficulty is subjective, depending on factors like a student’s strengths and previous experience with a topic.

Takeaways

• Many schools and organizations offer math programs for high school students. Some programs include the Ross Mathematics Program, PROMYS, HCSSiM, MOP, and Mathcamp.
• Most math programs for high school students are on-site. However, several are also online, such as SUMaC, AwesomeMath, and Mathnasium.
• Many excellent math programs can help you improve your skills in the subject, which is especially great if you’re aiming for a math-intensive college major. Talk to a private admissions consultant to help you pinpoint which math programs will be best for your academic and professional goals.