Best Business Summer Programs for High School Students 鈥 2026
January 31, 2026
Have you been running lemonade stands since before you could walk? Selling an array of sought-after stickers on the kindergarten bus? Marketing your signature plant-watering service through neighborhood door-to-door efforts? Perhaps you鈥檝e always had a propensity for entrepreneurship and are eager to develop new skills in a formal environment. Or, perhaps business is a relatively novel interest, and you鈥檇 like to test the waters before jumping head-first into a related major. Either way, you鈥檝e come to the right place: business summer programs for high school students are an excellent way to gain new competencies, grow as a leader, boost your college applications, network, and learn directly from industry experts. Both in-person and online experiences abound鈥揳ll you need to do is choose the one that sounds like the best fit. Ready to read more about our top contenders? You鈥檒l find them below.
Want to access our full searchable database of the best 2026 summer programs? Click below to sort summer programs by discipline and location, and view important data points such as tuition costs, deadlines, course listings, and more!
1)
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 1, 2, or 4 weeks (enrichment courses) / 6, 8, or 12 weeks (college credit courses)
- Cost: $1,895 (enrichment course) /$3,995 (college credit course)
- Eligibility: Students aged 13+
- Application Deadline: varies depending on course (rolling until approx. 1 week before the start date)
If you鈥檙e a high school student, the flexibility of Georgetown鈥檚 Pre-College Online Program is unmatched. Students as young as 13 can take enrichment or credit-bearing courses year-round, exploring budding curiosities and career paths or delving deeply into subject areas they are passionate about. Currently, there are nineteen enrichment courses available in many business-related subject areas, including business, marketing, investing, and entrepreneurship:
Business of Sports: A Look Behind The Game
Ever wonder what it takes to run a professional sports team? This course delves into the business of sports, exploring everything from franchise valuation and media contracts to stadium operations and marketing. You’ll analyze the decisions that drive teams to greatness, hear firsthand from team owners and sports executives, and prepare a final project with recommendations for a team of your choice. If you’re thinking of a career in sports management, this course is for you.
Becoming an Investor: An Inside Look at Finance
Did you know that global investing is a $28.5 trillion industry? Whether you鈥檙e new to investing or familiar with the field, this course will break down the basic mechanics of financial markets. Hear from industry experts, identify investment products, determine how investments yield returns, calculate an asset鈥檚 worth, and explore how the fintech revolution has enabled crypto exchanges. If you envision a future in this fast-paced business, here鈥檚 a course for you.
Becoming an Entrepreneur: An Inside Look at Innovation
Here is a course that will ignite the inner entrepreneur in you. You will learn how to identify the need for your product, discover your audience, understand the competitive landscape, and formulate a unique story that makes your brand memorable. Practice leadership skills, understand the risks involved, and develop a compelling pitch.
Discover the Power of Marketing
The world of marketing is dynamic and ever-changing 鈥 trends, technology, and tactics never stop innovating. Understanding how to engage the power of marketing is a vital life skill for anyone. This hands-on course explores the best ways to reach a target audience, both digitally and traditionally. Learn how to build a creative, data-driven, impactful marketing plan, and explore the many facets and career options of this fast-paced field.
2)听
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 1-week intensive, 2-week session, or 4-week session
- Cost: $1,795 per course
- Eligibility: Ages 13+
- Application Deadline: varies depending on course (rolling until approx. 1 week before the start date)
On the hunt for a program that you can dive into at any time during the year and complete at your own pace? Rice University鈥檚 Precollege Program, available to students aged 13 and up, is an excellent option. Given that Rice鈥檚 mission is to improve the world through unconventional thinking and doing, their current courses aim to capture that ethos with options in subject areas like economics and entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship: From Ideas to Impact in Fintech
Currently, there are 31 million entrepreneurs in the U.S., and 582 million worldwide. Within the world of finance, entrepreneurs are the creative thinkers with big ideas that result in creating the fintech market and other disruptive digital technologies. If you鈥檙e a high school student with a passion for entrepreneurship and a desire to know how it applies to the world of finance, this course is a great place to start. You鈥檒l learn what drives the development of new disruptive platforms, how they are improving financial inclusion, and review case studies of fintech technologies like Apple Pay, Venmo, PayPal and Square.
The Business of Economics
What are the factors that influence economic shifts in business? What is the role of the Federal Reserve, and what happens to the money supply? This course answers these questions and more. Get an introduction to the field, how market supply and demand drive prices, and how business competes when the economy faces inflation, supply chain disruptions, and international conflict. Want to understand the relationship between economics and business? This course is for you.
3) World Scholars Academy | Elite Summer Courses
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 2 weeks
- Cost: $2,995
- Eligibility: Ages 12-18
- Application Deadline: Rolling
World Scholars Academy offers summer courses and research internships taught live online by instructors from top research universities. Students receive individual feedback and personalized academic guidance in their exclusive small-group classes (max 6 students) as well as high-level instruction in the theory and practice of their chosen discipline.
The business program has two options: World Business Academy (ages 15-18) and Discover Business Academy (ages 12-14). The World Business Academy covers topics including game theory, microeconomic price theory, macroeconomics & investing, and competitive strategy. The Discover Business Academy introduces younger students to concepts such as finance & investing, branding & marketing, and businesses competition. Finally, the virtual business internship enables students to conduct original research on a topic of choice, guided by an expert mentor.
All programs are taught by instructors from top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard who are hand-selected for their intellectual leadership and ability to transmit high-level insights to their students. Upon successful completion, all students receive a letter of recommendation from their instructor that they can use for internship and college applications.
4)
- Instructional Method:聽Online
- Program Length: 2 or 4 weeks
- Cost: $1,595 per course
- Eligibility: Ages 13+
- Application Deadline: Rolling
W&M鈥檚 program is designed for high school students ages 13 and up, and offers a range of compelling topics, covered in-depth, thorough online coursework led by William & Mary professors. For those considering a business/entrepreneurship pathway, they offer the following course:聽
Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital: From Idea to Investment
Did you know that the business of venture capitalism is a $330 billion industry, a number that nearly doubled since last year? How do entrepreneurs鈥 tap into those funds to help support new start-ups? This course takes you inside the fast-paced world of venture capital investing. Learn how startups raise money from external sources and understand the key concepts and terms of VC investing. Take on the role of an entrepreneur, and craft a convincing pitch to potential investors. If you鈥檝e ever wanted to understand the various roles within this exciting field, this course is for you.
5)
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 2- and 4-week sessions
- Cost: $1,895
- Eligibility: Ages 13+
- Application Deadline: Rolling
While Northwestern鈥檚 Pre-College Online Program offers courses spanning disciplines like: Law, Psychology, and Medicine, it also includes engaging business-related courses for students who envision a future in the field.聽 Let鈥檚 deep dive into the business and business of sports courses offered for high school students:
Finance: Think Like an Investor
Curious about the world of finance? In this course, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the financial industry, from economic foundations to investment strategies and financial analysis. You will explore the intricacies of private equity, learn how to evaluate market trends, and analyze real-world case studies. Plus, you鈥檒l hear from industry experts with extensive experience in the field. Discover your potential in the financial world and prepare for your academic future.
Business of Sports: Beyond the Field
Step behind the scenes of professional sports and discover how winning teams are built off the field. From scouting talent to front office strategies, this course uncovers the powerful role of data, technology, and business operations in shaping success. You鈥檒l explore real-world trends, hear from industry experts, and even design your own expansion team strategy. Ready to dive into the exciting world where sports and business collide?
Business: Innovation, Strategies, and Success
The world of business is a complex series of moving pieces with a great number of specializations. This course introduces you to key foundational business concepts and roles that contribute to operating successfully, including marketing, strategy, and product development. As you work through interactive modules, case studies, and hands-on assignments, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of how to drive success and refine your ability to analyze problems and make strategic decisions.
6)
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 2 or 4 weeks
- Cost: $1,795 per course
- Eligibility: Ages 13+
- Application Deadline: Rolling
Students 13 and older have the opportunity to learn from University of Notre Dame faculty anywhere, anytime, at their own pace through this online, year-round program. If you鈥檙e interested in the world of business and want to pursue relevant majors or career opportunities, students can take that first step through the following courses through Notre Dame:
Business: From Startup to Success
What are the risks and costs of starting a business? How do you assess the health and strength of your business? And how do you grow a successful business? This course answers these questions and more. You鈥檒l consider legal, accounting, and financial risks, learn how to write a business plan, and learn the strategies that enable you to take the business public. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and aspire to launch a business, this course is for you.
Finance: Creating and Building Wealth
How can you take control of your financial future and contribute to a more equitable society? In this course, you鈥檒l learn the fundamentals of finance, and investigate the wealth gap as well as the role of financial institutions in wealth accumulation. By applying practical strategies to real-world situations, you鈥檒l develop a financial plan that guides you toward your long-term goals. If you envision a future career in finance or investing, this course is for you.
7)
- Instructional Method: Online
- Program Length: 1, 2, & 4-week sessions
- Cost: $1,895
- Eligibility: Ages 13 and older
- Application Deadline: Rolling
This course concludes with a final capstone project and students will earn a Certificate of Completion from Dartmouth. The following business courses can be taken in the summer or at any time during the school year.
Finance: Investing & Market Insights
Step into the world of finance and investing, where you鈥檒l learn how to evaluate companies, understand financial markets, and make savvy investment choices. This course breaks down essential financial concepts like risk vs. reward, valuation techniques, and market analysis, equipping you with the skills to succeed in finance. You鈥檒l hear from experts in business and finance, even value a real company and make an investment recommendation.
Entrepreneurship: Driving Change Through New Businesses
Ready to turn your ideas into a business? This online course guides you through the entrepreneurial journey, from identifying pressing real-world problems to developing compelling solutions. You’ll learn essential skills like designing a minimum viable product and understanding customer needs, while gaining insights from industry experts. Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and discover how to create real-world value.
8) Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy聽
- Instructional Method: In-person (residential)
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Program Length: 2 weeks
- Cost: $5,500
- Eligibility: Rising seniors
- Application Deadline: Mid-January (application opens in November)
At Ross, the University of Michigan鈥檚 acclaimed School of Business, students can explore business leadership in a rigorous environment. Through group workshops, field trips, and guest speakers, they鈥檒l learn more about the challenges that face high-performing businesses. Then, they鈥檒l work in teams to develop solutions to those challenges, which they鈥檒l present formally. Moreover, teams have the opportunity to meet with local companies. Along the way, they build leadership acumen, investigate potential career paths, and collaborate with other high-achieving students.
Additionally, students live in a UMichigan residence hall for the duration of the program. This program is particularly valuable for students who are considering Ross, as they鈥檒l receive exposure to Ross curriculum and faculty. To apply, students need to have a GPA of 3.0+ and submit two essays, a recommendation form, and their transcript.
9)
- Instructional Method: In-person (residential or commuter)
- Location: Rochester, NY
- Program Length: 1-2 weeks
- Cost: $2,470-4,990 (residential); $515-1,030 (commuter)
- Eligibility: Rising freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
- Application Deadline: Rolling (students are encouraged to apply early)
Rochester offers a number of half-day business courses through their Pre-College Program. Students can take up to two courses (one in the morning, one in the afternoon) and mix and match options. Five courses are currently available; almost all are taught by Simons Business School faculty. Options include Innovation Management: The Business of New Ideas, Language & Advertising, Topics in Business, and Basics of Investments and Careers in Finance.
For example, 鈥淭he Business of New Ideas鈥 is an experiential deep dive into innovation. Given that all businesses thrive off of fresh ideas, students will have the chance to immerse themselves in the generation, prioritization, and development processes required to bring concepts to life. Alternatively, students who opt for “Basics of Investments” will explore different career paths, create a hypothetical portfolio, network, and learn about essential topics in personal finance.
To apply to these business summer programs, students will need to submit letters of recommendation and transcripts.
10)
- Instructional Method: Online or in-person (residential or commuter)
- Location: Marlborough, MA (New England Innovation Academy)
- Program Length: 3 weeks
- Cost: $6,295 (online) / $9,295 (commuter) / $12,995 (residential)
- Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors aged 15+
- Application Deadline: February 13 (early deadline); March 13 (regular deadline)
Babson is all about providing their undergraduates with the skills to become entrepreneurial innovators and changemakers. Unsurprisingly, their business summer programs have an identical objective. Over the course of three weeks, students dive into Babson鈥檚 Entrepreneurial Thought and Action methodology through Introduction to the Entrepreneurial Experience, which covers topics in entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance, among others. Here, students learn how to turn ideas into action, how ideas gain traction, and how to handle difficult circumstances. Students work closely with faculty as well as academic mentors. Moreover, the online format allows students from all over the world to participate, exposing participants to diverse viewpoints. The icing on the cake is that students walk away from the program with four college credits under their belts.
Interested students should know that they鈥檒l need to dedicate a significant amount of time to this program. For example, they鈥檒l spend approximately three hours per day in live classes and five hours per day working on assignments. Furthermore, students choose cohorts based on time zone, which is important because a significant amount of collaborative teamwork is involved.
To apply, students need to submit three essays, a counselor or teacher recommendation, and their high school transcripts.
11)
- Instructional Method: Online or in-person (residential)
- Location: UC San Diego
- Program Length: 2-week and 4-week sessions (in-person) /聽 3-, 5-, and 8-week sessions (online)
- Cost: $6,495 / $11,495 (2- or 4-week in-person session); $1,995-$6,495 (3-, 5-, or 8-week online sessions)
- Eligibility: Ages 14-18 (varies by program)
- Application Deadline: November (early deadline); March (regular deadline)
No simulations or mock startups here! The ultimate goal of LaunchX is for students to use their newfound knowledge and skills to create actual businesses. It鈥檚 a tall order, but the program is highly structured and has won numerous awards for business excellence.
LaunchX鈥檚 flagship offering鈥搕he Entrepreneurship Summer Program鈥搃s held both and . Regardless of format, all participants are expected to bring a product to market by the program鈥檚 culmination. (This is defined as minimum $250 in sales.) In addition, students participate in classes, mentor meetings, and significant collaboration with their cofounder teams. While doing so, they progress through a number of stages鈥搘hich include market research, prototyping, and pitching.
Not ready to launch a company yet? You might check out , which is a three-week virtual experience. Here, students work with an established company. Through an experiential curriculum, students build the problem-solving skills they need to propose new solutions to the company鈥檚 current challenges. Want to start even smaller? Online BootCamp is LaunchX’s sole part-time option, and teaches students start-up basics, preparing them to start their own business.
Unlike other business summer programs, transcripts and recommendations are the least important part of the admissions process. Instead, the committee would like to see evidence that students have an entrepreneurial mindset and are team players. They can display these qualities through their activities list, video, and optional portfolio.
12)
- Instructional Method: In-person (residential) and online
- 尝辞肠补迟颈辞苍:听Multiple campus locations
- Program Length: 1 week
- Cost: $2,800 (in-person); $900 (online)
- Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
- Application Deadline: Feb 11 (early deadline) / March 18 (priority dealine) / April 15 (final deadline)
For those interested in economics and leadership, Economics for Leaders is a stand-out, highly competitive option. There are multiple business summer programs available: the signature Economics for Leaders program, Entrepreneurship in the Global Economy, Environment & the Economy, and Advanced Economics for Leaders. All applications involve letters of recommendation, transcripts, and a personal statement.
At , students learn about ten different topics, which include opportunity cost, labor markets, and property rights. Through simulations, discussions about current domestic and global issues, and hands-on learning opportunities, students learn how to apply economic analysis to a variety of concepts. In addition, they receive leadership training that emphasizes personal, relational, and contextual leadership skills. Moreover, students who elect to take enjoy the same curriculum. It is delivered synchronously and students can expect to spend approximately five hours per day in class. College credit is available for both programs.
Finally, it should be noted that the application gives students the opportunity to rank program sites in order of preference. Selecting multiple program sites (up to three) provides maximum chance of acceptance.
Final Thoughts 鈥 Business Summer Programs for High School Students
Both students with entrepreneurial experience and students new to the profession will benefit greatly from structured opportunities. Whether you鈥檙e looking to launch your own startup, innovate fresh solutions to existing issues, or hone your problem-solving abilities, you鈥檙e sure to find business summer programs that will not only increase your experiential knowledge but also your confidence. The result? You鈥檒l enter college with an increased sense of motivation and purpose that will benefit you immensely in the years to come.
Looking for more business summer programs for high school students in your area? Consider checking out the following:
- Best Summer Programs in Atlanta
- Best Summer Programs in the Bay Area
- Best Summer Programs in Boston
- Best Summer Programs in Chicago
- Best Summer Programs in Dallas
- Best Summer Programs in Denver
- Best Summer Programs in Houston
- Best Summer Programs in Los Angeles
- Best NYC Summer Programs
- Best Summer Programs in Philadelphia
- Best Summer Programs in Phoenix
- Best Summer Programs in Seattle
