Summer programs at universities.

What it is: Faculty-led, five-day camps introduce students to filmmaking fundamentals from script to screen at ASU's MIX Center in Mesa (and the ASU California Center in LA).

Cost: $800 total registration (includes $100 non-refundable deposit); no financial aid noted on page.

Selectivity: Open enrollment for qualifying ages; no stated selection criteria.

When: Five-day camps in June 2026 (Arizona/MIX Center camp June 22-26; an LA camp June 15-19)

Applying: Register online via the film school summer camps page; confirm deadline (registration is per-session until full).

Official program page →

What it is: Five-day musical-dance-theatre day camp with high-energy training in dance, voice, and stage presence from the BYU Young Ambassadors, culminating in performances.

Cost: Paid tuition (per-camp fee on registration page); day-camp format.

Selectivity: Open enrollment; no audition required, all skill levels welcome.

When: July 6-11, 2026 (YASE-1) and July 13-18, 2026 (YASE-2)

Applying: Register online via the YASE site; phone 801-422-8925 or 877-221-6716.

Official program page →

What it is: A pre-professional residential arts intensive in Animation, Dance, Film, Music, Theater, Visual Arts, Writing (and architecture/environment); completers earn the Governor's Medallion.

Cost: State-subsidized tuition with extensive financial aid; full scholarships available for low-income students - a strong affordability/access option.

Selectivity: Talent-based selection (~500 students/year) judged on creative assignments and teacher recommendations; not GPA-driven.

When: ~1 month residential, July 4 - July 31, 2026.

Applying: Apply at csssa.ca.gov; selection in spring via portfolio/assignment-based application and teacher recs. Note: host site moving to Cal Poly Pomona for 2026.

Official program page →

What it is: Students take college-level courses from Columbia faculty in fields like Cinema & Television Production, Game Development, Illustration, and Photography, earning transferable college credit.

Cost: Tuition ~$3,698 (includes courses, weekday lunch, facilities access); scholarships covering up to 50% of program cost available.

Selectivity: Open to motivated high schoolers; application-based, not highly competitive

When: Four-week intensive program in summer

Applying: Apply via the Summer at Columbia admissions page; financial-aid/scholarship application available alongside enrollment.

Official program page →

What it is: One-week pre-college programs led by Drexel faculty using university labs and studios in disciplines like fashion design, architecture, and other media arts.

Cost: Paid: e.g., Fashion Design ~$2,400 covering accommodations, meals, materials, and field trips.

Selectivity: Application-based (some require teacher recommendation), moderately selective.

When: One-week sessions across the summer (2026)

Applying: Apply via westphal.drexel.edu/summer-programs.

Official program page →

What it is: Weeklong studio day camps in Eskenazi Hall; the Pre-College session is an advanced intensive (drawing, painting, printmaking, animation, 3D) designed to prepare teens for college-level studio art.

Cost: $350 per weeklong session (commuter day camp); maximum 20 participants per session

Selectivity: Open enrollment (first-come); capped at 20 per session

When: Weeklong day sessions June-July 2026 (e.g., High School Drawing & Illustration June 8-12; Herron Pre-College July 20-24)

Applying: Register online at herron.indianapolis.iu.edu; registration deadlines about one week before each session (e.g., July 1, 2026 for Pre-College)

Official program page →

What it is: Premier residential arts camp where students train intensively with professional faculty across music, theatre, dance, film, creative writing, and visual arts. Note: Interlochen is an arts institution/academy, not a university.

Cost: Tuition is substantial (e.g., ~$7,265 for a high school musical theatre session); need-based financial aid and scholarships are available.

Selectivity: Selective/audition-based for many programs (e.g., Musical Theatre Production); varies by discipline.

When: Multi-week residential sessions late June through early August (e.g., Session 1 June 28-July 18; Session 2 July 19-Aug 9, 2026)

Applying: Apply with required audition/portfolio materials via interlochen.org; rolling until programs fill.

Official program page →

What it is: A hands-on creative-careers boot camp where students pick areas of focus across film, graphic/motion design, photography, game design, theater, songwriting, broadcast journalism, and creative writing.

Cost: $600/week ($700 after April 16, 2026), or $1,000 for both weeks. Twenty need-based scholarships available (scholarship deadline March 31, 2026).

Selectivity: Open enrollment / non-selective

When: Two one-week sessions: June 15-19 and June 22-26, 2026, 9am-4pm

Applying: Register online; scholarship application due March 31, 2026; questions to scdexperience@loyno.edu. No refunds after May 15, 2026.

Official program page →

What it is: Students live on MECA&D's Portland campus, choose two studio majors from nine options plus figure drawing, work with practicing-artist faculty mentors, earn 3 transferable credits, and exhibit work.

Cost: $4,800 (shared room) / $5,300 (single) for 2026, including housing, meals, instruction, and most supplies; plus $40 application fee and $500 deposit. A limited number of need-based scholarships available.

Selectivity: Rolling admission until capacity; no portfolio required (moderately selective)

When: Three weeks, July 12 - August 1, 2026

Applying: Apply online with a 250-300 word essay, teacher recommendation, and unofficial transcript; paperwork and full payment due June 1, 2026.

Official program page →

What it is: College-level studio classes, workshops, and artist talks build technical/conceptual skills and a stronger portfolio while students earn college credit immersed in MICA's studio culture.

Cost: Residential 2-week $3,850 / 4-week $7,700; commuter 2-week $2,725 / 4-week $5,450; $25 application fee + $250 deposit. Scholarship opportunities available.

Selectivity: Selective; requires submission of 4 pieces of art/design via SlideRoom.

When: Session 1 July 13-24, Session 2 July 27-August 7, or full 4-week July 13-August 7, 2026

Applying: Application deadline May 15, 2026 (extended); apply online with portfolio at mica.edu/precollege. Contact precollege@mica.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: Students take three core courses (2D Fundamentals, 3D Fundamentals, Issues & Images) plus an elective, modeled on MassArt's Studio Foundation year, building a portfolio and earning 3 optional college credits.

Cost: $4,020 (non-credit); +$630 credit fee for the 3-credit option; financial aid not published on the page — inquire

Selectivity: Open for non-credit (registration + statement of purpose); portfolio + recommendation required for the credit option

When: Four weeks; July 20-August 14, 2026 (Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm)

Applying: Register online via MassArt Youth & Teen Programs; registration opens Jan 12, closes May 31; for-credit applications due May 1

Official program page →

What it is: A three-week residential arts intensive at MTSU offering individual and group instruction in dance, filmmaking, instrumental music, vocal music, theatre, and visual art for gifted Tennessee high schoolers.

Cost: Free / state-funded (room, board, and instruction covered; optional donations accepted)

Selectivity: Highly selective; admission by competitive audition held January-February

When: June 6-28, 2026 (three-week residency)

Applying: Apply via gsfta.com; competitive auditions held January or February; each discipline has its own audition coordinator

Official program page →

What it is: Studio courses in animation, comic art, graphic design, illustration, painting, filmmaking, photography, and game design on MCAD's campus, with some for-credit options.

Cost: Course fees approximately $192-$580 depending on length; scholarships available

Selectivity: Open enrollment / registration

When: Mid-June through late July 2026, multiple start dates

Applying: Register online via MCAD Continuing Education 'Apply Now'; contact 612.874.3700 for deadlines

Official program page →

What it is: Students choose a track and collaborate to write, design, rehearse and stage an original three-act musical, culminating in a world-premiere performance.

Cost: Paid tuition (supported by tuition, grants and donations); limited need-based financial assistance available for qualifying students

Selectivity: Application-based; track selection (writing / performance / technical)

When: Three-week residential program, June 7-27, 2026, in Starkville

Applying: Apply via the official program site (summerscholarsonstage.msstate.edu)

Official program page →

What it is: A free two-week residential fine-arts Governor's school where selected high schoolers study intensively across visual art, theatre, dance, creative writing, and music.

Cost: Free tuition, funded by the State of Missouri and private donations

Selectivity: Selective statewide application in visual arts/mixed media, theatre, dance, creative writing, and music

When: Two weeks, May 31 - June 13, 2026

Applying: Applications accepted Oct-Jan (2026 student deadline was Mar 14); apply via missouristate.edu/MFAA/apply.htm

Official program page →

What it is: Four-week credit-bearing immersion in art, design, architecture, and writing taught by Pratt faculty; students build portfolio-ready work and earn four college credits while living/learning on Pratt's Brooklyn campus.

Cost: Credit-bearing tuition (4 college credits in the Summer Intensive) plus housing for residential; confirm cost/aid on Pratt's PreCollege page.

Selectivity: Open to motivated students; no prior experience required (curiosity/commitment emphasized)

When: 4-week Summer Intensive (Brooklyn, NYC)

Applying: Apply via pratt.edu Continuing & Professional Studies PreCollege page; submit application and materials. Spring/early-summer deadlines.

Official program page →

What it is: Six-week intensive in visual art and design (foundation drawing plus a major in areas like film, illustration, architecture, graphic design) simulating a first-year art-school studio experience.

Cost: Residential $12,495; commuter $9,595; online $4,635. NOT eligible for FAFSA/federal aid; limited need-based scholarships (partial), more available for online.

Selectivity: Open enrollment via application; not test/portfolio-gated for general admission but capacity-limited.

When: On-campus June 27 - August 1, 2026; online June 22 - July 30, 2026 (6 weeks)

Applying: Applications open Nov 5, 2025; $1,100 non-refundable deposit due within 2 business days of acceptance; balance due March 11, 2026. Apply at precollege.risd.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: A four-week residential studio experience where students take core design classes plus two self-selected immersions (e.g., film directing, entertainment/themed environments, fine arts) taught by college faculty, building a portfolio.

Cost: Paid: residential total ~$7,480; commuter ~$5,345 (tuition $4,650 + fees). Need-based tuition grants available (apply by March 18, 2026); room/board not covered.

Selectivity: Open/accessible: very few applicants are denied; admission hinges on completing requirements. Immersion seats first-come, first-served.

When: 4 weeks (2026: June 21 to July 18)

Applying: Applications open November 1 of the prior year (2026 cycle already closed). Apply on ringling.edu; submit portfolio-style materials per immersion.

Official program page →

What it is: Four-week credit-bearing studio program (ARCH 100) with seminars, fieldwork, and extracurriculars introducing architecture as a college major and career.

Cost: $6,000 comprehensive (tuition, room, board, materials); $150 non-refundable deposit by June 15, 2026. Earns 3 college credits (ARCH 100).

Selectivity: Application-based (transcript + 1 reference); capacity-limited, not highly competitive.

When: July 5 - August 1, 2026 (4 weeks)

Applying: Apply at connect.rwu.edu/register/arch_summer_academy; transcript + letter of reference; deposit/deadline June 15, 2026.

Official program page →

What it is: Hands-on art and design workshops (demos, lectures, studio work, field trips) taught by SCAD professors, alumni, and grad students, with full access to SCAD facilities.

Cost: Tuition about $1,450-$1,750 per session plus $100 registration fee; a limited number of merit scholarships available (materials due ~April 13, 2026).

Selectivity: Open enrollment; small workshops (~20 or fewer students each).

When: Weeklong sessions: June 21-26, July 5-10, July 12-17, July 19-24 (2026; Savannah has 4, Atlanta 3)

Applying: Register at scad.edu pre-college programs; registration closes ~2 weeks before each session; scholarship materials due mid-April. Balance due by May 29, 2026.

Official program page →

What it is: Immersive overnight pre-professional arts intensives at SC's public arts Governor's School in creative writing, dance, drama, film, music, and visual arts, taught by working artists.

Cost: Tuition charged but financial assistance available for all programs; many low-cost given state funding. Music program example: $800 includes room, board, materials.

Selectivity: Selective by audition/portfolio review; hundreds admitted each summer across arts areas.

When: Overnight programs ranging 1-5 weeks depending on art area and grade, across summer 2026 (June-July).

Applying: Apply via scgsah.org/summer-programs with portfolio/audition materials; contact Admissions at 864-282-3713. SC residency required (except Summer Dance).

Official program page →

What it is: High schoolers take intensive studio courses across media to build portfolio-quality work and earn transferable college credit, with optional downtown campus housing.

Cost: Tuition-based, college-credit program (one college credit per week attended); tuition and financial-assistance details via Continuing Studies (cs@saic.edu).

Selectivity: Application/portfolio-oriented but broadly accessible to motivated art students

When: 1-, 2-, and 4-week sessions in summer (e.g., mid-June through late July)

Applying: Apply via SAIC Continuing Studies / high-school programs; contact 312.629.6170 or cs@saic.edu for deadlines.

Official program page →

What it is: Five weeks of credit-bearing, college-level study in the liberal and studio arts with Skidmore faculty, including authentic residential life; all courses carry transferable Skidmore credit.

Cost: Credit-bearing tuition plus room/board for residential students; confirm cost and any aid on the Skidmore Pre-College page.

Selectivity: Application-based; broadly accessible to motivated students

When: 5-week program in summer (Saratoga Springs, NY)

Applying: Apply via skidmore.edu/precollege; submit application materials. Rolling/early deadlines.

Official program page →

What it is: State-funded pre-professional residential arts training where selected students study visual arts, media arts, or theatre for many hours daily with professional artist-faculty, living in college dorms at SUNY Fredonia.

Cost: State-subsidized and need-aware: funded by the NYS Education Department plus tuition; financial aid available to make it accessible regardless of background (a strong affordable/equity option).

Selectivity: Highly competitive statewide audition-based admission

When: Summer residency (relaunched as ~3-week sessions for visual arts, media arts, and theatre)

Applying: Apply/audition via the NYS Education Department (oce.nysed.gov/summerarts or nysed.gov NYSSSA page). Winter/spring audition deadlines.

Official program page →

What it is: Week-long creative academies in TCNJ's School of the Arts and Communication where students build a project in animation, game/graphic design, video, or music with faculty.

Cost: Paid tuition that varies by format (residential vs commuter); see individual program pages for pricing

Selectivity: Open enrollment / minimally selective (registration-based)

When: One-week academies in summer 2026 (e.g., late June)

Applying: Register via precollege.tcnj.edu; see individual academy pages for dates and deadlines

Official program page →

What it is: A two-week day academy where students take beginning and advanced classes from professional Alaskan artists in cartooning, ceramics, digital design, drawing, metalsmithing, painting/mixed media, photography, and printmaking.

Cost: Full day $650 + $100 materials; half day $375 + $75 materials. Limited scholarships available (deadline May 1, 2026).

Selectivity: Open registration for general enrollment; scholarship applicants submit portfolio, essay, and two recommendations.

When: Two-week intensive (June 1-12, 2026)

Applying: Register online at app.campdoc.com; scholarship application deadline May 1, 2026. Contact uaf-vaa@alaska.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: A free week-long overnight workshop where rising high schoolers take studio courses with School of Art faculty, visit Crystal Bridges and The Momentary, get college-prep guidance, and exhibit their work publicly.

Cost: Free — housing, meals, and materials all included at no cost

Selectivity: Competitive; portfolio (3+ original works) + recommendation letter reviewed; waitlist used

When: June 14-19, 2026 (one week)

Applying: Apply via SlideRoom with digital portfolio and a visual-arts teacher recommendation; deadline March 22, 2026 (11:59 p.m. CT).

Official program page →

What it is: Week-long arts camps at UCO in theatre (e.g., Disney musicals), music, and dance, with daily classes culminating in a final performance for family and friends.

Cost: ~$400-$450 registration; $620-$745 with housing (early-bird discounts before May 1)

Selectivity: Open enrollment (popular sessions waitlist quickly)

When: June-July 2026 (e.g., theatre weeks Jun 8-12 and Jul 6-10), 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Applying: Register via UCO College of Fine Arts & Design / OCAE camps page; contact ocae@uco.edu

Official program page →

What it is: Day camps run by UC's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning introducing teens to creative careers (animation, fashion business, city design, drawing, makers/3D) via projects, guest speakers, and field trips.

Cost: ~$550 per camper (all supplies included; bring own lunch).

Selectivity: Open enrollment (fills quickly; 2026 sessions filled)

When: One week in June (e.g., June 8-12, 2026, 9am-5pm)

Applying: Register via daap.uc.edu/community/DAAPcamps; join the early-notification list for the next cycle. Contact daapcommunications@uc.edu / 513-556-4933.

Official program page →

What it is: Residential or commuter immersion camps in filmmaking, animation, music industry, audio production, photography, illustration and comic design run by CU Denver's College of Arts & Media.

Cost: One-week tracks $650; two-week residential $2,600, Commuter Plus $1,800, Commuter $1,300. Over $50,000 in need-based scholarships awarded each summer.

Selectivity: Open enrollment but several tracks fill and close; competitive for popular programs

When: One-week tracks June 8-12; Music Industry June 14-26; Animation/Filmmaking/Visual Immersive Art July 12-24, 2026

Applying: Apply via the LYNX application portal. Priority deadline March 15, 2026; final deadline May 15; late applications through June 1.

Official program page →

What it is: A commuter musical-theatre camp where students put on a full production (acting, singing, sets, costumes, live orchestra) in onstage, backstage/tech, or pit-orchestra roles.

Cost: On Stage $965; Backstage $865; Pit Orchestra tuition-free (+$15 shirt). $200 non-refundable deposit; needs-based financial aid available.

Selectivity: Open enrollment for On Stage/Backstage (no audition); Pit Orchestra by invitation/interest form

When: Three July weeks (Jul 13-17, 20-24, 27-31, 2026), 9am-4pm; performances Jul 31-Aug 2

Applying: Register online via UD Community Music School registration portal; spots fill by completed registration + casting needs.

Official program page →

What it is: A four-day immersion in art and design disciplines - architecture, apparel, printmaking, landscape architecture, interior design, virtual technology - through hands-on, faculty-led workshops while living on the Moscow campus.

Cost: $450 ($425 returning campers) including workshops, supplies, room and board; adjusted price for local non-overnight students. No published aid on page.

Selectivity: Open enrollment (registration-based)

When: Four days, June 24-27, 2026

Applying: Register online; 2026 registration is now closed (deadline was June 10, 2026). Check page for 2027 dates.

Official program page →

What it is: Pre-college camp in the KU School of Architecture & Design where students do faculty-led workshops (VR design, animation, brand identity, footwear design) and build portfolio-ready projects.

Cost: Lawrence residential $1,000; Kansas City day camp $50; fee waivers available for demonstrated need and select KC/St. Louis districts

Selectivity: Open enrollment; all interested students accepted

When: Lawrence residential late May/early June (2026: May 31-June 6); KC day camp late June (2026: June 22-26)

Applying: No hard deadline; register online; fee-waiver applicants answer two short-answer questions

Official program page →

What it is: A one-week intensive offering advanced classes in ballet, contemporary/modern, jazz, African dance, yoga, improvisation, and repertory, ending in a showcase performance.

Cost: $600 tuition; optional housing $250 (with linens) / $200 (without). No scholarship info confirmed on page.

Selectivity: Open enrollment — no audition required.

When: One week; 2026 dates June 15–19, 2026.

Applying: Register online; 2026 registration deadline May 1, 2026. Emergency contact forms, waivers, and consent documents also required.

Official program page →

What it is: Residential studio program where students build art and design skills and develop a portfolio while living and working on the Ann Arbor campus.

Cost: Approximately $6,000 per 2-week session; financial aid/scholarship support referenced on the Stamps pre-college pages.

Selectivity: Accessible application (portfolio-building focus; no portfolio required to enter).

When: Two 2-week sessions in July-August (e.g., July 12-25 and July 26-Aug 8, 2026)

Applying: Application deadline around March 1, 2026; apply via the Stamps pre-college portal.

Official program page →

What it is: A residential digital-art camp where students learn frame-by-frame animation and motion control, producing their own animated work.

Cost: ~$750-$850 tuition; scholarships available

Selectivity: Open enrollment up to capacity (~15 students); fills quickly

When: Six days in June (e.g., June 7-12)

Applying: Register via Cvent on the Nebraska 4-H Big Red Camps page; contact BigRedCamps@unl.edu

Official program page →

What it is: A residential studio camp where students work in client/designer scenarios and create their own projects to explore architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture careers.

Cost: Paid tuition (see program page); high school camp scholarship available via separate form

Selectivity: Application-based; notified of status the week after deadline

When: About one week in June (e.g., June 7-12)

Applying: Submit application materials to the College of Architecture by ~April 11; scholarship form due ~April 19 (architecture.unl.edu/application-summer-camp)

Official program page →

What it is: Run by UNM's School of Architecture + Planning at the Predock Center, it introduces students to architecture and design through hands-on studio activities, lectures, Albuquerque field trips, and a final professional review.

Cost: $300 per session ($150 fully refundable deposit); a limited number of full scholarships available first-come, first-served via emailing a completed Scholarship Form to adsa@unm.edu

Selectivity: Open enrollment (register online); scholarship application optional

When: July 6-24, 2026, weekdays 9am-3pm

Applying: No hard deposit deadline stated; register online and email adsa@unm.edu for scholarship. Reserve early as scholarships are first-come.

Official program page →

What it is: Students train in acting and musical theater tracks, focusing on the fundamentals of acting, dance, and voice for stage, film, and television.

Cost: Paid tuition (varies); residential housing available. See program page for current fee.

Selectivity: Audition-based; trains with faculty from the School of Drama (ranked among the top drama schools globally).

When: Summer 2026 (multi-week intensive in June/July).

Applying: Apply and submit audition materials via uncsa.edu/summer/drama-summer-programs; applications after May 8, 2026 waitlisted.

Official program page →

What it is: Conservatory-rigor training taught by UNCSA faculty and guest artists across the performing, visual, and media arts, with performances and access to professional facilities and equipment.

Cost: Paid tuition (varies by discipline); housing available for residential students. Check individual program pages for fees and any aid.

Selectivity: Audition/portfolio required for conservatory-level intensives; competitive.

When: June-July 2026 (varies by discipline). New North Carolina Piano Festival runs June 25-July 10, 2026.

Applying: Apply per discipline via uncsa.edu/summer; applications received after May 8, 2026 are waitlisted pending space.

Official program page →

What it is: A free two-week residential studio institute in drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, art history, and Northern Plains/Native American cultural studies, culminating in a gallery exhibition.

Cost: Completely free to accepted students, including meals, housing, instruction, and art supplies

Selectivity: Highly selective; limited to 20 students; selection by application, reference letter, and 10-image portfolio

When: June 7-19, 2026 (two weeks)

Applying: Apply online or by mail with student form, parent/guardian permission, instructor reference, and portfolio images; deadline April 1.

Official program page →

What it is: A week-long camp where students explore foundational design principles (color, form, space, composition) through analog and digital projects with faculty and upper-class mentors, available as commuter or residential.

Cost: Commuter $1,150 / residential $1,450; scholarships available (scholarship application deadline May 1, 2026)

Selectivity: Open enrollment (first-come; no design experience required), though spots fill quickly

When: July 12-18, 2026 (one week)

Applying: Registration open now via archdesign.utk.edu; scholarship deadline May 1, 2026; contact archdesign@utk.edu

Official program page →

What it is: Week-long arts intensive in dance, visual art, design, and theatre/drama with UW Division of the Arts, culminating in final performances and exhibitions.

Cost: Residential tuition $1,275; daily commuter $875; $75 nonrefundable application fee. Scholarships available via Badger Precollege.

Selectivity: Open enrollment (all experience levels welcome); space limited.

When: July 12-18, 2026 (one week)

Applying: Register online via Badger Precollege (window Jan 12-May 15, 2026; contact program for late inquiries).

Official program page →

What it is: A three-week intensive where students take one non-credit studio course with VCUarts faculty to build portfolio-ready art/design work or audition skills.

Cost: Residential $4,300; commuter $2,900 (non-credit course). A limited number of partial scholarships available via the application portal.

Selectivity: Rolling admissions; accepted until spots fill. Priority deadline Feb 1.

When: Three weeks (Summer 2026: July 12-31), Mon-Fri, six hours/day.

Applying: Apply online at apps.art.vcu.edu/precollege; priority deadline Feb 1, then rolling. Email summerarts@vcu.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: Students work in real WashU art and design studios producing a portfolio, mentored by current students and alumni, culminating in a final exhibition.

Cost: Tuition-based pre-college program (3 college credits); fees set per year on the Sam Fox pre-college page; financial aid handled through WashU pre-college

Selectivity: Application-based admission

When: Three weeks, July 12 - August 1, 2026

Applying: 2026 applications closed at time of check; email samfoxschoolprecollege@wustl.edu for the cycle. Apply via the Sam Fox pre-college page

Official program page →

What it is: An immersive studio program where students develop fundamental architecture and design skills, work on real studio projects, and experience the school's studio culture with student/alumni mentors.

Cost: Tuition-based (2 college credits); fees on Sam Fox pre-college page; financial aid via WashU pre-college

Selectivity: Application-based admission

When: Two weeks, July 12 - 25, 2026

Applying: 2026 applications closed at check; contact samfoxschoolprecollege@wustl.edu. Apply via Sam Fox pre-college page

Official program page →

What it is: Residential intensive in acting, vocal music, instrumental music, dance, visual/studio art, creative writing, and digital media; students train with WVWC faculty and visiting professional artists and take arts field trips.

Cost: Free of charge (state-funded).

Selectivity: Competitive; admittance via audition and/or portfolio review in the chosen discipline.

When: Three weeks, June 21 - July 11, 2026, on the WVWC campus in Buckhannon

Applying: Deadline March 6, 2026. Apply via the WV Department of Education Governor's Schools portal through your school; audition/portfolio required.

Official program page →

What it is: Local high schoolers take arts and humanities workshops using Yale's resources — the Beinecke Library, Yale University Art Gallery, photography, graphic design, comics, and ancient languages.

Cost: FREE — two-week program offered at no cost

Selectivity: Access-focused; nomination + application for eligible local public-school students

When: Two-week arts/humanities program in summer (July)

Applying: Nomination by teacher/counselor in spring, then apply in June via onha.yale.edu; decisions in late August

Official program page →

What it is: An immersive summer dance training program for young artists offering technique and performance classes through NKU's School of the Arts.

Cost: Paid program; check the NKU SOTA page for current tuition and any scholarship options.

Selectivity: Open enrollment intensive for committed dancers.

When: Summer dance intensive (typically one to two weeks; dates announced annually).

Applying: Register via NKU School of the Arts at nku.edu/sdi.

Official program page →

What it is: A long-running weeklong theater day camp at UM where young performers build acting and performance skills and stage work; verify whether high schoolers are included before relying on it.

Cost: Paid registration; pricing via UM (not published in sources reviewed)

Selectivity: Open enrollment (grown from 45 to ~120 participants)

When: One week in summer

Applying: Register through the UM School of Theatre & Dance / Conference & Event Services summer camps; confirm current dates and eligibility directly with UM.

Official program page →

What it is: Day camps from Alabama's state arts-and-sciences specialty school in strings/music, creative writing, algebra/math and visual art. Note: a state public magnet school, not a university, but a notable Alabama option.

Cost: Paid day camps $195-$650; need-based financial assistance available by family income. (ASFA's regular year-round school is tuition-free, but summer camps are paid.)

Selectivity: Open enrollment / registration-based

When: June 2026 (varies by camp; multi-day to multi-week)

Applying: Register via the ASFA summer-camps online portal; placement confirmation required.

Official program page →

What it is: Residential pre-college academies in filmmaking/media production (writing, editing, directing) and 3-D animation, giving students hands-on studio experience and portfolio pieces.

Cost: Pre-college program fee (per registration system). Visit Scholarship $1,000/year ($4,000 total) if attendee later enrolls at Champlain. No need-based aid noted.

Selectivity: Open enrollment, space-limited.

When: Summer 2026 (see program page for session dates).

Applying: Register online; 2026 registration closes June 12 (or when full). Contact precollege@champlain.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: A two-week college-prep intensive in classical and contemporary dance covering repertory, theory and composition through CSU's dance program.

Cost: Tuition not published on the academic-programs page; check K-12 Summer Programs site

Selectivity: By level (intermediate through preprofessional); college-preparatory

When: Two-week in-person intensive, summer 2026

Applying: Register via CSU K-12 Summer Programs (k12summer.colostate.edu); confirm dates and deadline.

Official program page →

What it is: Weeklong residential camp combining intensive vocal and acting training with a culminating staged musical performance in a professional theatre.

Cost: $600 all-inclusive (meals, room, activities)

Selectivity: Non-audition; open to all

When: One week in July (2025 ran July 6-12; 2026 dates TBD)

Applying: Enroll online via ideal-logic; deadline around June 1; contact arosine@ksu.edu

Official program page →

What it is: Immersive visual-art program where teen artists develop skills across studio disciplines and prepare for a future in the arts using Kean's design-college facilities.

Cost: Paid tuition (see program page for current rate); part of Kean's broader pre-college youth offerings

Selectivity: Open enrollment / minimally selective (registration-based)

When: Summer 2026 (June–August youth program window)

Applying: Register via galleries.kean.edu / kean.edu pre-college youth programs; see page for dates

Official program page →

What it is: A tuition-free, three-week residential arts intensive offering training in nine+ disciplines (visual art, drama, dance, creative writing, film/photography, instrumental and vocal music, musical theatre, architecture/design, graphic design).

Cost: Tuition-free — all students receive full tuition, room, and board (state/Kentucky Center funded). Completion can lead to college scholarship opportunities.

Selectivity: Competitive — admission based on creative potential and passion (auditions/portfolios), not GPA or test scores.

When: Three weeks; 2026 program June 7–27, 2026, hosted at Northern Kentucky University.

Applying: Apply at kentuckygsa.org; 2026 application deadline was Sunday, January 18, 2026, 11:59 p.m. ET.

Official program page →

What it is: A two-week residential academy at Quartz Mountain giving artistically advanced Oklahoma students collegiate-level training in acting, chorus, creative writing, dance, drawing/painting, film/video, orchestra, or photography.

Cost: $35 application fee per discipline (need-based fee assistance); ALL selected students receive a FULL scholarship — program is free to attend

Selectivity: Highly competitive; audition-based selection across 8 disciplines

When: June 13-28, 2026 (two-week residential intensive)

Applying: Online application + uploaded audition materials due Feb 9, 2026, 11:59 p.m.

Official program page →

What it is: Two-week workshops across performance, stage combat, costume/makeup design, and lighting/projection technology, taught in the Silver Center's theatres, studios, and shops.

Cost: Paid workshop fees (per-workshop pricing on the registration site); not free.

Selectivity: Open enrollment

When: Early July (two-week workshops; e.g., sessions July 3-8 and July 10-15, five 3-hour sessions each)

Applying: Register online via the PSU Summer Theatre Institute registration page.

Official program page →

What it is: A mini-college arts experience where students create and perform new work across a foundation course plus electives in multiple disciplines.

Cost: Tuition-based; housing available for full-time students; scholarship opportunities exist

Selectivity: Open enrollment (program placement by interest)

When: Four-week summer intensive

Applying: Apply via Seattle U / Cornish pre-college pages (Summer@Cornish)

Official program page →

What it is: An immersive multi-day experience exploring theatre, dance, acting, and theatrical design with SDSU performing-arts faculty.

Cost: Not posted on the landing page; contact the School of Performing Arts for fees and any assistance

Selectivity: Open enrollment

When: Summer 2026 (three-day exploration days; specific dates on the camp page)

Applying: Register via the School of Performing Arts summer camps page or contact 605-688-5187 / sdsu.sopa@sdstate.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: High schoolers choose a creative focus — printmaking, ceramics, sculpture, digital animation, graphic design or architecture — and produce work over the week.

Cost: Paid camp fee; amount not listed on news page — verify on Department of Art site.

Selectivity: Open enrollment / registration-based

When: One week in June (June 22-26, 2026)

Applying: Register through UA Department of Art and Art History.

Official program page →

What it is: Hands-on filmmaking, screenwriting, and animation taught by UT faculty and graduate students, including a 'Make a Movie in a Week' workshop.

Cost: Paid camp tuition (varies by session); some virtual options. Check program page for current fees.

Selectivity: Open enrollment / register to attend

When: Summer; multi-day to two-week sessions (9am-3pm weekdays for in-person)

Applying: Register via the RTF camps page; rolling enrollment until sessions fill.

Official program page →

What it is: An eight-day residential ensemble program where students work with professional playwrights, directors, and actors to devise an original script and perform it in an end-of-session showcase.

Cost: Free — funded through the state AEGIS (Academic Enrichment for the Gifted and Talented in Summer) program

Selectivity: Selective via application; gifted/talented designation NOT required

When: June 13-20, 2026 (8-day immersion)

Applying: Apply online (arsummerstage.org); funded as a state AEGIS program. Check site for current deadline.

Official program page →

What it is: A free week introducing students to design thinking about cities, buildings, and spaces through studio-style projects with architecture faculty.

Cost: Free. Hosted by the College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture.

Selectivity: Accessible; register to reserve a spot (capacity-limited).

When: June 22-26, 2026 on the Tucson campus

Applying: Register by June 1, 2026 through the U of A summer camps / CAPLA listings.

Official program page →

What it is: An intensive week-plus of acting training where grades 9-12 expand their theatre skills with UGA theatre faculty.

Cost: Tuition per the program/registration page (paid camp); confirm on UGA Theatre & Film site.

Selectivity: Open enrollment (intensive acting training, no audition advertised).

When: July 10-17

Applying: Register via UGA Department of Theatre and Film Studies; see news.uga.edu announcement and the department site.

Official program page →

What it is: A multi-week day intensive where high schoolers build foundational graphic design skills and software fluency with UNLV art faculty.

Cost: Cost not posted on the listing; confirm with program. Many UNLV Young Rebels camps are low-cost or free.

Selectivity: Open enrollment via registration form; capacity-limited.

When: 12-day intensive in June-July (approx. June 15 - July 2).

Applying: Register via the Young Rebels Google form; contact ashley.doughty@unlv.edu.

Official program page →

What it is: A six-day residential theater camp on USM's Gorham campus that introduces students to voice, improvisation, dance, scene study, and character development to build a stage production.

Cost: Tuition charged (residential camp); pricing via the Osher School of Music summer camps page

Selectivity: Open enrollment (registration-based)

When: Six-day resident camp in summer 2026 (typically July)

Applying: Register via the USM Osher summer camps page / UltraCamp; contact Noah Hall, usm.music.youth@maine.edu / 207-780-5003.

Official program page →

What it is: Pre-college residential academy introducing high schoolers to fashion design and merchandising through hands-on studio work, culminating in design projects.

Cost: Approximately $1,250 per person (2025 rate; confirm 2026 pricing). Residence camp.

Selectivity: Open enrollment.

When: One week in mid-to-late June (2025 ran June 15-21); 2026 dates on the program page

Applying: Register through the WVU College of Creative Arts and Media; see the Fashion Design Summer Academy page for the 2026 dates and registration link.

Official program page →