Montclair State University Pre-College Summer
- Montclair, NJ
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Overview
Montclair State University’s Pre-College Summer gives motivated high school students the opportunity to explore academic and career interests, gain college experience, and live on a vibrant campus just 12 miles from New York City. Participants choose from a rich array of themed programs that immerse them in college-level learning while connecting classroom study with real-world application.
This residential experience is designed to challenge students academically and socially while helping them build confidence and clarity about future pathways. Students live in university residence halls, engage with faculty and peers, and participate in activities that extend learning beyond the classroom.
Academic Offerings
Montclair’s Pre-College Summer includes two session options with a diverse selection of programs tailored to a wide range of interests. Students may attend one or both weeks, selecting a topic that aligns with their academic goals or exploratory interests.
Session I (July 12-18, 2026):
• Abracadabra: The Magic of Creative Writing
• AI and Engineering Summer Lab
• Animation & VFX
• Business Entrepreneurship Week
• Fashion Design
• Film and Television Production
• Food for Thought: Understanding Nutrition
• Law and Order: Understanding America’s Criminal Justice System
• Makers and Movers: A Dance Intensive
• Pre-Medical Professions
• Pre-Teacher Academy
• Sports Communication
• Theatremaker: Writing and Directing Intensive
• Wall Street and the Investment Experience
Session II (July 26-August 1, 2026):
• Business Entrepreneurship Week
• Fashion Merchandising
• Film and Television Production
• Influencing, Marketing, and Creative Strategy
• Law and Order: Understanding America’s Criminal Justice System
• Leadership and Culture Across NYC
• Model United Nations
• Next Stop: Broadway! (Musical Theatre)
• Pre-Medical Professions
• Psychology: The Human Mind Unlocked
• The Craft of Acting
• The Mathematics of Musical Instruments
Each program blends hands-on activities, project work, field experiences, and opportunities to work with faculty and peers who share similar interests.
Program Experience
College Life Simulation:
Students live in residence halls on Montclair’s 250+-acre campus, managing a college lifestyle and building independence.
NYC Integration:
Many programs take advantage of Montclair’s proximity to New York City, offering field trips and experiences that extend learning into professional environments such as Wall Street, Broadway, and cultural institutions.
Creating Community & Building Skills:
Alongside academics, students build teamwork, communication, creative thinking, and leadership skills that support college success.
Admissions & Costs
How to Apply:
Applications open in late November for the upcoming summer. Students must be rising 10th-12th graders, submit a transcript, and a personal statement. Letters of recommendation are optional. Accepted students secure their spot with a non-refundable deposit.
Cost:
$1,900 – Cost per program includes tuition, housing, meals, co-curricular activities, and field trips.
Connect:
For more details and to begin your application, !