Harvard Summer School
Cambridge, United States
About Harvard Summer School
Founded in 1871, Harvard Summer School is part of Harvard University's Division of Continuing Education. It offers intensive summer study for high school students, college students, and adult learners, with opportunities for college credit, professional development, and personal enrichment. Offerings include non-credit pre-college study, college-credit secondary school programs, adult and college courses, and faculty-led study abroad. Students can choose online or on-campus formats, with residential and commuting options available for eligible offerings.
Teaching style
Teaching centers on intensive, academically rigorous summer courses led by Harvard faculty and visiting instructors. Formats include campus classes, live online instruction, asynchronous online study, and flexible attendance options, depending on the course. High school students can choose a structured non-credit introduction to college academics or a more independent college-credit experience.
Reputation & Succeed take
Harvard Summer School describes itself as the oldest academic summer program in the United States, with a history dating to 1871. Its academic offering draws on Harvard faculty, visiting faculty, and university resources. The faculty page reports an average instructor rating of 4.7 out of 5 across all courses.
Our take
Harvard Summer School is a strong fit for learners who want concentrated academic study, access to Harvard instructors and resources, and an international peer community. The main decision is which experience fits your goals: structured non-credit exploration, college-credit coursework, professional development, or study abroad. For high school families, budget planning matters because scholarships generally cover only part of the cost.
The provider spans several stages of learning, from high school exploration to college credit and adult professional development. Within its high school offerings, Pre-College provides a structured two-week, non-credit residential experience, while the Secondary School Program offers four- or seven-week college-credit study with greater independence. Adult and college courses add open enrollment and a range of online and campus formats.
Who this provider suits
Who should choose them
Academically motivated high school students seeking college-level exploration or credit; college students working toward degree requirements or exploring new subjects; and adults pursuing career development or personal enrichment. Learners who value an international community and can commit to intensive summer coursework may find the range of formats useful.
Who it may not suit
Learners seeking a lightly academic summer experience may find the intensive coursework a poor fit. High school families who need guaranteed full funding should consider the documented limits on scholarships. Residential students who require a guaranteed room or roommate choice should also review the housing rules before applying.