Summer Institute Application, Tuition, and Scholarships

Application Process

Summer Institute is open to high school students (grades 10-12 and Graduating Seniors based on the grade the student is entering in the Fall 2027 school year). Students must be 15 years old by the first day of the program. All students applying to Summer Institute for the first time are required to complete an online application. Returning students do not need to reapply. Our online application can be completed in a few basic steps. As students work through their application, they may save their progress and return to the application before final submission.

• Fill out basic information
• Complete a short answer question
• Pay a $50 application fee (May be paid online via credit card. This fee is non-refundable.)
• Submit most recent school transcript or report card. Transcripts must be in English and do not need to be official.
• Provide proof of English proficiency (for non-native speakers)

* Please be aware that our programs are all taught in English. For non-native speakers, we may require a consultation regarding your English Proficiency level or submission of test scores.

*Applications will not be considered complete nor reviewed until all information has been submitted. We encourage students to submit their applications as soon as possible to increase their chances of being accepted.

Returning & Deferred Students

We are thrilled that you have decided to study with us again. Students who have been previously accepted to Summer Institute will be automatically accepted for the following year. Students must confirm their personal information, accept the enrollment agreements, and select their courses.

Application Timeline & Deadlines

Early Enrollment Deadline – January 31, 2027

Students who apply and enroll by January 31 during the Early Decision period will receive a $350 discount and are very likely to secure a spot in their first-choice course (though placements are not guaranteed due to course capacities). Families who enroll in January can also lock in a payment plan earlier to spread payments across more months.

Regular Admissions Enrollment Deadline – March 31, 2027

Students who apply and enroll by March 31 during the Regular Decision period will receive a $150 discount. Courses begin filling fast during the Regular Admissions period. Apply and enroll by March 31 and secure your summer plans before spring break! Monthly payment plans are still available at this stage. This is the final date to apply for a scholarship.

Rolling Admissions – Beginning April 1, 2027

All applications are carefully reviewed by our admissions committee. The committee strives to select talented student leaders with diverse interests and ambitions who will contribute to a well-rounded and academically engaging community of students. Each application is reviewed holistically and qualified students who have demonstrated a genuine interest in Summer Institute will be considered for admission to the program. Our goal is to accept as many qualified students as possible. We encourage students to submit their applications as soon as possible to increase their chances of being accepted.

Tuition & Fees

Residential Program

Students live in dorm-like facilities in the center of the city.

Day Program (non-residential)

Students commute to campus and do not receive room and board.

*Materials Fees cover activities, equipment, and other instructional materials. Program fees do not include health insurance. All students are required to have their own health insurance coverage.

Flexible payment plans are available to all families.

Refer a Friend

Students can refer a friend and both students will receive $250 off their tuition. To redeem this offer, both students should contact our Admissions team before completing an application. The discount will be applied to your payment plan after completing enrollment.

If you have already enrolled for Summer Institute and would like to refer a friend, a $250 discount can be refunded to you. This option is only available if the friend has not completed an application. Please contact our Admissions team before the second student submits an application for the program.

Scholarships

Summer Institute is committed to making its programs accessible to students from all backgrounds. We believe financial circumstances should not be a barrier to world-class, pre-collegiate education. Our Scholarship Program aims to improve the availability, access, and equity of learning opportunities by providing scholarships based on financial need. To be considered, students must submit a completed program application, followed by a scholarship application. Scholarships are limited and disbursed on a first-applied, first-awarded basis until all funds have been exhausted. For this reason, we encourage eligible students to apply as soon as possible.

Scholarship applications close March 31.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Summer Institute is committed to fostering a culture that embraces the values of diversity and inclusiveness. We believe that diversity — in all its forms — is a driver for new ideas, creativity, and academic excellence. Moreover, we are dedicated to creating a climate of dignity and respect as well as recruiting and retaining a diverse group of leaders, administrators, faculty, staff, and students.

Promoting a nurturing, inclusive environment means actively opposing intolerance, bigotry, bias, and discrimination. The policies and educational objectives of Summer Institute further inclusivity and cultural effectiveness. These values are recognized and supported fully by Summer Institute leadership. Additionally, we recognize that the responsibility for maintaining a culture of diversity and inclusion lies with all of us.

Support a Student

Summer Institute regularly works with schools, foundations, education institutions and community-based organizations that work with student populations. If you are interested in sponsoring a student scholarship or partnering with Summer Institute, please contact us at precollege@sia.edu.