Top Summer Programs with Applications Opening in January 2026

Fall may have just begun, but it is the perfect time to start planning for next summer. Many of the most exciting summer programs open applications in January, which makes now the right moment to focus on building an application that stands out. Check out these programs and see how a research project can help your application shine.

Summer Programs: A Path to Discovery and Growth

For high school students, summer is more than just a pause from the school year. It is a chance to explore subjects you enjoy, uncover new interests and build skills that will carry into the next year. Many programs also provide opportunities to step outside the classroom, connect with like-minded peers and grow both academically and personally.

What makes these experiences powerful is the way they encourage students to challenge themselves in new settings. Whether through advanced coursework, hands-on projects or creative exploration, summer programs help students expand their perspectives and gain confidence in their abilities. They often spark interests that shape future goals, while also fostering friendships and networks that last well beyond the summer.

Because these programs are selective, applications stand out when they highlight meaningful experiences and original work. Demonstrating initiative, persistence, and creativity shows that you are prepared to make the most of what a program has to offer and ready to take on new challenges.

Top Summer Programs Opening in January 2026

Whether your interests are in STEM, leadership, writing or media, there are many exciting opportunities to choose from. Here are six standout programs with January 2026 deadlines that can help you create a summer filled with growth and purpose.

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

COSMOS is a four-week residential program for high school students who are excited to explore science, technology, engineering, and math at a deeper level. Offered at six UC campuses, the program features hands-on labs, group projects and mentorship from university faculty and researchers. Students get the chance to study topics not usually covered in high school while connecting with peers who share a strong interest in STEM. It is a challenging but rewarding experience that helps students grow both academically and personally.

• Grade Level / Age: Rising 9th–12th graders (grades 8–12 at time of application)

• Application Opens: January 7, 2026

• Application Deadline: February 6, 2026

• Program Timeline: Four weeks, residential

• Location: UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego, UC Santa Cruz, UC Merced (newly added)

2. Summer at Brown

Summer at Brown gives high school students the chance to live and learn on an Ivy League campus while exploring subjects that spark their curiosity. With more than 300 courses to choose from, students can dive into areas like STEM, the humanities, social sciences or the arts. The program is flexible, allowing students to pick courses that match their interests and goals. Outside of class, participants meet peers from around the world and experience life at Brown, building independence and confidence in a supportive environment.

• Grade Level / Age: Rising 9th–12th graders (varies by program)

• Application Opens: January 15, 2026

• Application Deadline: May 2026 (priority enrollment deadlines earlier, see website)

• Program Timeline: Varies by course (1–6 weeks)

• Location: Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island

3. Global Youth Entrepreneurship & Leadership (GYEL)

The Global Youth Entrepreneurship & Leadership program is designed for students who want to develop skills in innovation, teamwork and problem-solving. Through pitch competitions, case studies, and team projects, participants get a chance to think like entrepreneurs and practice real-world leadership. The program encourages creativity, collaboration, and confidence, making it a strong fit for students who dream of starting their own ventures or leading change in their communities.

• Grade Level / Age: High school students (varies by program)

• Application Opens: January 2026

• Admissions: Rolling admissions, reviewed as applications are received. Spots can fill quickly, so applying early is strongly recommended.

• Program Timeline: Varies by session

• Location: Virtual

4. UC Irvine Future Leaders Initiative (FLI)

The UC Irvine Future Leaders Initiative (FLI) is a week-long program that introduces students to business, leadership, and financial literacy through hands-on learning. Participants take part in workshops, guest lectures, and group projects while also visiting companies and hearing from industry professionals. The experience builds communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills in a supportive setting that encourages students to see themselves as future leaders.

• Grade Level / Age: Incoming high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors, plus first- or second-year community college students (with a focus on underserved Southern California students)

• Application Opens: January 2026

• Application Deadline: Spring 2026 (typically April or May, see website for details)

• Program Timeline: Six consecutive full days in July, non-residential

• Location: UC Irvine, Irvine, California

5. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio gives high school students the chance to immerse themselves in creative writing. Participants choose a focus in fiction, poetry or playwriting and work closely with published authors and experienced instructors. The program combines writing workshops, one-on-one feedback, and peer review sessions, creating a community where young writers can grow their skills and explore their voice.

• Grade Level / Age: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors

• Application Opens: January 2026

• Application Deadline: Typically in February 2026 (see website for exact dates)

• Program Timeline: Two-week residential program in the summer

• Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa

6. Camp Cronkite (Arizona State University)

Camp Cronkite at Arizona State University is a summer program for high school students interested in journalism and media. Participants step into a newsroom setting to practice skills in reporting, broadcasting, and multimedia storytelling. Through hands-on training and mentorship from faculty at ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, students learn what it takes to cover stories, produce content, and work in a fast-paced media environment.

• Grade Level / Age: High school students (grades 9–12)

• Application Opens: January 2026

• Application Deadline: Typically in March 2026 (check website for details)

• Program Timeline: One-week residential program in the summer

• Location: Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona

Stand Out for Summer Programs with Polygence

Competitive summer programs look for more than strong grades or essays. What sets applications apart is meaningful work that demonstrates curiosity, initiative and persistence. An independent research project is one of the most effective ways to show this.

At Polygence, students work one-on-one with expert mentors to create projects that reflect their unique interests, whether in STEM, writing, business, or the arts. These projects showcase creativity and problem-solving, giving students tangible achievements that make their applications stronger and more distinctive.

With many programs opening applications in January, starting a Core Project now ensures you have impressive work to highlight and a compelling story to share. By pursuing independent research, you show initiative and a commitment to learning that helps you set yourself apart.