When you’re in high school, summers often feel like a pause button. You finally step away from classes, exams, and deadlines, but summers can be much more than just a break from routine. They give you the space to build skills you rarely get to focus on during the school year, discover new interests, and push yourself beyond what a classroom usually allows. One of the most meaningful ways to do this is by participating in English summer programs for high school students.

If you enjoy reading, writing, debating, or storytelling, these programs can be especially rewarding. You might find yourself analysing literature with university professors, experimenting with creative writing, strengthening your public speaking skills, or learning how language shapes culture and power. These programs help you sharpen how you think, express ideas clearly, and engage with the world around you, skills that matter no matter what you choose to study later.

Even if English feels familiar because you already studied it in school, a summer program can help you see the subject in a completely new way. You will interact with motivated peers, experience college-style learning, and gain confidence in your ability to communicate your thoughts.

What kinds of English summer programs for high school students are there?

Finding the right English summer program can be tricky. Some programs are too broad and lack academic depth, while others feel overly rigid and leave little room for creativity. That is why it helps if you understand the different kinds of opportunities available, since not all programs offer the same experience.

Many universities and educational organisations offer English-focused summer programs that centre on literature, creative writing, journalism, debate, linguistics, or academic writing. You could spend time closely reading classic and contemporary texts, developing short stories or poems, or learning how to write persuasive essays and research papers. 

No matter which type you choose, you will be challenged to think more deeply and communicate more effectively. To help you navigate your options, we have put together a list of 15 English Summer Programs for High School Students. These programs were selected for their academic rigour, learning environment, and the opportunities they offer for growth beyond the classroom.

In addition to english, you can have a look at summer writing programs or essay contests for high school students.

15 English Summer Programs for High School Students

1. Immerse Education English Literature Summer School

Location: Oxford, Cambridge, and Online
Cost/Stipend: Varies; summer school scholarship available through their bursary programme
Acceptance rate/cohort size: An average of 7 participants per class
Dates: 2 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: Multiple summer cohorts; rolling admissions
Eligibility: Open to motivated high school students aged roughly 16-18 with a passion for literature and critical writing; international applicants are welcome

In the English Literature Summer School by Immerse Education, one of the most academically rigorous English summer programs for high school students, you’ll spend two weeks diving into literary study with expert tutors who guide you through critical analysis of poetry, prose, and drama from a wide range of periods and genres. Through structured classes, workshops, and personal research projects, you’ll learn how to unpack complex texts, sharpen your essay-writing skills, and articulate your own interpretations with confidence.

Given the small class sizes, you’ll get plenty of one-on-one feedback and tailored support as you explore everything from Shakespearean plays to modern narratives. Completing this course also earns you a recognised certificate of achievement, and you can even opt for UCAS points. If you want a focused literary experience that simulates the intellectual atmosphere of university study while living in one of the world’s most historic academic cities, this programme helps you build deeper analytical and creative skills. By the end of the program, you’ll complete a personal project, receive written feedback, and receive a certificate of completion. You can find more details about the application here.

Why it stands out: You get an academically rigorous, university-style exploration of literature in the heart of Oxford or Cambridge with personalised mentor support.

2. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio

Location: Iowa City, IA
Cost/Stipend: $2,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Two sessions in June and July
Application Deadline: February 1st
Eligibility: You must be currently in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade at the time of the program to apply; applications are open to students from the United States and international students worldwide

You’ll spend two immersive weeks on the University of Iowa campus, sharpening your creative writing craft alongside peers who are equally passionate about storytelling and expression. Each day centres on a core course in areas like fiction, poetry, creative writing, TV writing, or playwriting, all led by accomplished instructors from the university’s prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop lineage.

In workshops and seminars, you’ll share work, receive feedback, and build your confidence in developing voice, structure, and technique. Beyond classes, there are readings by published authors, discussions on literary topics, and a range of social activities that help you connect with other young writers. The residential setting is designed to blend artistic growth with community, so you live and learn together in a vibrant, creative environment. 

Why it stands out: You’ll learn directly from mentors connected to the Iowa Writers’ Workshop in a setting built for creative exploration and peer collaboration.

3. Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops

Location: Kenyon College, Gambier, OH; virtual options available
Cost/Stipend: $2575
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small cohort sizes to keep workshops intimate
Dates: June 21st – July 4th and July 12th – July 25th
Application Deadline: March 1st
Eligibility: High school students around the world

At the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshops, you’ll dive into creative writing with peers who are as passionate about story and craft as you are. The structure centres on small-group generative workshops where you write, share, and revise across genres such as poetry, fiction, and personal essay. Instructors are experienced writers and teachers who guide discussions on craft elements, help you discover your voice, and offer thoughtful feedback on your work.

Outside of classes, you’ll connect with other young writers, attend readings, and build confidence in your ability to explore ideas through language. The residential format also gives you a taste of college life while sharpening your creative instincts in a supportive community. If you’re eager to grow as a writer and surround yourself with others who love words, this workshop provides space for both creative risk-taking and meaningful improvement.

Why it stands out: You must be a high school student aged 16–18 (typically in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade) at the time of the program to apply; applications are open to students worldwide

4. Alpha Young Writers Workshop

Location: University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg campus, PA
Cost/Stipend: Tuition $1,800
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Very small (20 student participants)
Dates: July 15th – July 26th
Application Deadline: Applications open February 1st and close March 1st
Eligibility: You must be between 14 and 19 years old on the first day of the workshop to apply; open to students from the United States and international students

If you’re passionate about genre writing, the Alpha Young Writers Workshop gives you an intense 12-day dive into crafting science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories with peers who share your interest. During the workshop, you’re expected to write an original short story while developing skills like idea generation, narrative structure, character creation, and revision strategies.

Beyond formal sessions, you’ll get feedback from both staff and fellow participants, attend readings, and learn practical insights into submitting your work for publication. Because the cohort is small and immersive, you’ll have space to experiment and build confidence in your skills while forming creative friendships. If you want a concentrated, genre-focused writing experience with talented peers, Alpha offers a uniquely close-knit and creative community.

Why it stands out: You’ll join a focused residential workshop where every student gets hands-on time writing, critiquing, and growing with expert guidance in speculative fiction.

5. Between the Lines

Location: University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Cost/Stipend: ~ $2,500
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Limited spots
Dates: Typically a 2-week session in mid-July
Application Deadline: Around mid-March
Eligibility: Students aged 15-18; accepts both U.S.-based students and international students from a set list of participating countries

Between the Lines brings together a small, international group of young writers for two weeks of creative writing workshops, literary seminars, and cultural exchange on the University of Iowa campus. You’ll live with peers on campus and engage in daily writing workshops guided by experienced instructors who help you explore voice, style, and creative expression.

In addition to craft sessions, you’ll attend world literature discussions, author talks, and group conversations that broaden your perspective on the power of stories across cultures. The program emphasises empathy and connection, encouraging participants to share their own backgrounds while learning from others through literature and dialogue. 

Why it stands out: You’ll join a highly selective, cross-cultural creative community focused on writing, empathy, and shared storytelling.

6. The Writers Studio

Location: In-person in New York City, San Francisco, Rome, and more; virtual options available
Cost/Stipend: Varies by course
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Multiple sessions throughout the year, including summer workshops and private tutorials
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary by class
Eligibility: Open to high school students and other emerging writers; available for students from the United States and international students worldwide

At The Writers Studio, you step into a long-standing creative writing community that offers a range of workshops and courses designed to strengthen your voice, expand your narrative skills, and deepen your understanding of craft. Rather than a single summer program, this is a flexible platform where you can choose classes that fit your schedule, whether you want a short summer intensive, a weekly evening workshop, or a multi-week online course.

Instructors use a method focused on persona writing, helping you experiment with narrative approaches, refine your style, and grapple with emotional content in your work. These classes emphasise consistent practice and thoughtful feedback, making them ideal if you’re committed to improving your writing over time.

Why it stands out: You’ll find a highly adaptable writing pathway with workshops that meet your pace and interests, blending craft instruction with a supportive creative community.

7. 92NY Young Writers Workshop

Location: New York City, NY
Cost/Stipend: $2250
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 13-24
Application Deadline: Varies
Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18; students from the United States and international students worldwide are welcome to apply

At the Young Writers Workshop, you’ll spend three weeks in New York City growing as a writer alongside other creative teens. Each day combines writing sessions, small group discussions, and feedback rounds on poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, led by experienced workshop leaders who help you explore craft, voice, and revision techniques. You’ll read contemporary work, experiment with prompts, and learn how to strengthen your ideas through peer critique and instructor guidance.

Beyond structured classes, there are opportunities to share your work publicly and connect with other young creatives in this vibrant urban setting. If you’re ready to immerse yourself in a dynamic writing community and push your craft forward in a culturally rich environment, this workshop gives you a space to do just that.

Why it stands out: You’ll develop your writing in a structured, collaborative workshop right in the heart of New York City with peers who share your creative drive. 

8. Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP)

Location: Hybrid; online + Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Approx. ~35-40 students selected annually
Dates: Multi-week hybrid summer intensive typically from late June through early August
Application Deadline: Typically around the end of January
Eligibility: You must be a current high school junior at the time of application, from a low-income background with strong academic credentials, must reside in the United States or Puerto Rico, and intend to attend college in the U.S.

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program gives you a rare and intensive introduction to journalism in one of the most prestigious university settings in the U.S. Over the summer, you’ll begin with online workshops and lectures led by professional journalists and Princeton faculty. During your time there, you’ll visit major media outlets, learn reporting and writing techniques, produce digital content and investigations, and collaboratively publish your own newspaper called the Princeton Summer Journal.

Beyond skill building in reporting and media, the program also includes seminars on college admissions and pairs you with a college counselor to support your application process during your senior year. You can focus on learning and connect with peers who share your passion for storytelling and social issues. 

Why it stands out: You’ll learn journalism hands-on with professionals and receive year-long college prep support, all without paying tuition or fees.

9. Los Angeles Times HS Insider Summer Internship

Location: Los Angeles Times office, El Segundo, CA
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective
Dates: Typically mid-June to early August
Application Deadline: Usually around late February; applications open in late January
Eligibility: Students in Southern California who can work on-site in El Segundo (must be eligible to work in the U.S. under applicable laws)

In the Los Angeles Times HS Insider Summer Internship, you’ll step into a real newsroom environment and work as a young journalist bringing stories to life. You’ll cover breaking news, explore enterprise features, and develop multimedia content, from written articles to videos and podcasts, with mentorship from seasoned reporters.

The hybrid schedule blends in-office collaboration in El Segundo with some days working remotely, teaching you how to balance deadlines, teamwork, and independent reporting. Training sessions and workshops help build practical skills like interviewing, multimedia storytelling, and editorial thinking, while regular editorial feedback strengthens your craft. It’s a strong chance to see what journalism looks like beyond the classroom and build your portfolio of published work. 

Why it stands out: You’ll learn to produce and publish quality content and gain authentic newsroom experience guided by award-winning journalists.

10. Fordham University Summer English Courses

Location: Fordham University, New York City, NY
Cost/Stipend: Tuition varies depending on credits
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Varies
Dates: Multiple 5-week sessions during the summer
Application Deadline: Registration typically opens in January
Eligibility: You must be a rising high school junior or senior; students from the United States and international students worldwide may apply

During Fordham’s Summer Session, you can take college-level English courses that deepen your writing, analytical reading, and critical thinking skills alongside undergraduate and visiting students. These courses run in intensive formats over five weeks, giving you structured opportunities to practice writing, engage with classic and contemporary texts, and receive feedback from experienced professors.

Here, you’ll be challenged to refine your communication skills in an academic environment. Taking a summer course here also lets you earn real college credits that can strengthen your transcript and prepare you for future academic work. If you’re ready to experience college-level study in English while spending your summer in NYC, this program offers flexibility and rigor in equal measure.

Why it stands out: You can earn real college credit in rigorous English courses while studying alongside undergraduates and visiting students at a major urban university. 

11. The School of The New York Times Summer Academy 

Location: New York City, NY
Cost/Stipend: Varies for the residential (7695) and commuter (6195) options
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: Multiple two-week terms across June to August
Application Deadline: February 27th
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10-12 or graduating seniors during the fall; open to students from the United States and international students worldwide

In The School of The New York Times Summer Academy, you’ll spend two weeks in New York City studying topics tied to writing, journalism, media, culture, technology, and more under the guidance of editors, reporters, and industry professionals. You’ll gain practical skills in storytelling, reporting, and media analysis while participating in hands-on activities like conducting interviews, crafting articles, and exploring the city’s cultural landscape.

Beyond classes, the program offers immersive experiences that connect what you’re learning with New York as a dynamic media hub. Small class sizes help ensure you receive meaningful feedback and build strong connections with both instructors and peers. If you’re curious about how media operates at the highest level and want a summer that challenges your thinking and writing, this program immerses you in that world.

Why it stands out: You’ll study journalism and storytelling directly through courses shaped by professionals tied to a leading news institution while living in the heart of NYC.

12. California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA): Writing Program

Location: Valencia, CA
Cost/Stipend: Tuition varies for California residents and out-of-state residents; check here
Acceptance rate/cohort size:
Dates: July 4th – August 1st
Application Deadline: February 28th
Eligibility: Students entering grades 9-12 in the fall; open to students from the United States and also accepts a limited number of out-of-state and international students

At the CSSSA Writing program, you’ll spend a full month in a deeply creative environment focused on fiction, poetry, memoir, and dramatic writing. Faculty comprised of published writers and experienced educators guide you through core classes that introduce genre fundamentals and focus classes where you dive more deeply into a style of your choice.

Outside of structured instruction, guest artists, editors, and agents visit for discussions and talks, exposing you to professional perspectives and practical insights into the broader literary world. You’ll also participate in weekly readings and contribute to a printed anthology showcasing the work of your cohort, giving you the chance to see your writing in a collective publication. Living and learning with peers who bring diverse stories and voices adds to the intensity and fun of the experience.

Why it stands out: You’ll spend four weeks intensively writing across genres with guidance from professional authors and peers, all culminating in a real anthology of your work.

13. Juniper Institute for Young Writers – Summer @ UMass

Location: Amherst, MA
Cost/Stipend: TBA; historically residential tuition ~ $5,100
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Competitive
Dates: Session 1: July 12-25; Session 2: July 26th – August 8th
Application Deadline: March 9th
Eligibility: Rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders, and the high school class of the program year; the program is open to students from the United States and international students worldwide

The Juniper Institute for Young Writers at UMass Amherst invites you to spend two weeks fully immersed in a residential creative writing experience that blends workshops, craft sessions, readings, and community building with peers who love words as much as you do. Days are filled with writing labs, reflective craft discussions, and opportunities to share work and receive thoughtful feedback, while field trips and social activities round out the experience in the scenic Connecticut River Valley.

The residential setup not only builds your skills but also gives you a taste of pre-college life, letting you connect with fellow writers from diverse backgrounds. If you want a summer that pushes your writing forward while connecting you to a vibrant community of young literary makers, this program offers a rich, supportive space to grow.

Why it stands out: You’ll live and write in community with deeply passionate peers and instructors, gaining focused craft development and creative inspiration over two intensive weeks.

14. Advanced Writing Seminar: Overnight Program (Writopia Lab)

Location: Pratt Institute campus, Brooklyn, NY
Cost/Stipend: Tuition $4,200
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small, selective group
Dates: July 12th – July 25th
Application Deadline: April 20th
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors;  open to students from the United States and international students worldwide

In the Advanced Writing Seminar Overnight Program by Writopia Lab, you’ll spend two weeks in Brooklyn expanding your creative voice through workshops, excursions, and focused craft instruction. You’ll join a small group of dedicated teen writers to work in one of three tracks: Writing the City (where you write inspired by New York City itself), Novel Writing, or Playwriting, each guided by published authors and theatre professionals.

Living on campus at Pratt Institute, you get a real pre-college residential experience where writing is both your craft and community focus. If you want a summer that blends hands-on mentorship, creative exploration, and a chance to build work you’ll be proud of, this seminar offers a uniquely immersive setting. 

Why it stands out: You’ll dedicate two weeks to creative exploration with expert guidance and community support. 

15. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program

Location: Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA.
Cost: Residential – $9,636; Commuter – $7,284; Application Fee: $50; Enrollment Deposit: $800
Dates: June 20th – July 18th
Application Deadline: Early (for scholarships and international applications): February 1st; Final: March 1st
Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors worldwide (minimum age: 16 years)

The Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program offers a four-week immersive experience in exploring writing, film, and culture, making it one of the most interdisciplinary English summer programs for high school students. You’ll engage in digital poetics, short-form writing, film development, and production. You’ll experience learning from traditional, contemporary, and historical perspectives.

The program is a great opportunity to learn different story formats from renowned faculty members. You’ll gain the skills of critical thinking, interpretation of visuals and writings, and receive individual feedback. If you’re a high school student interested in improving your writing skills through enrichment activities, then this program can be a good option to consider. 

Why it stands out: You’ll learn from renowned Carnegie Mellon faculty as they provide expert feedback on digital poetics, film production, and diverse storytelling formats.

A Summer Built for Better Sentences

Summer is your chance to strengthen writing without school pressure. Daily practice, feedback, and bold reading choices quickly turn good sentences into great ones today.

English summer programs for high school students bring structure to that growth, pairing workshops with discussion. You learn to analyze, persuade, and revise with confidence.

Beyond grades, you gain a sharper voice and wider perspective. Literature teaches nuance, while writing teaches precision, so your ideas land clearly and powerfully everywhere.

Want the fastest way to keep improving after the program ends? Open our English Literature Top Books Guide and choose your next transformative read now.