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Boston University: Summer Challenge Program
Overview
A 2-week summer program for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Students choose two seminars from an extensive list and participate in college life immersion with daily social activities, lectures, discussions, and field trips.
At a glance
Deadline
May 15186 days
Sessions
Jun–Jul2 wk sessions
Formats
Residential / Commuter
Location
Boston, MA
Entering grades
9th, 10th, 11th, 12th
Acceptance
Rolling admissions; decisions made on rolling basis as applications are received and verified.
Application requirements
High school transcript
Full transcript beginning in 9th grade including fall 2025 grades (minimum quarter 1, trimester 1, or semester 1 progress report). Students currently in 9th grade must also submit 8th grade transcript. Screenshots of academic portal acceptable; official transcripts not required.
Personal statement
500–750 words describing why student wants to attend
Application fee
$75 nonrefundable, paid by credit card at submission
International requirements
Current valid passport required. English language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) required if English is not native language.
Cost & sessions
2026 Session Dates Session 1: June 14–June 26, 2026 Session 2: July 5–July 17, 2026 Session 3: July 19–July 31, 2026 Tuition and Fees In summer 2025, the total charge for a residential student enrolled in the Summer Challenge program was $4,860. The total charge for Summer Challenge includes tuition, housing, and all meals in the dining hall. It also includes textbooks and all sponsored activities during the two-week program. Please note: a non-refundable deposit (applied to tuition) is required once a student commits to attending Summer Challenge in order to hold a place in the selected seminars. The application fee is not included in the tuition.
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