Summer Schools: Ivy League Pre-College Programs — Worth It?

Many parents think sending their child to an "Ivy League Summer School" helps them get an admission.

The Hard Truth: Most of these programs are cash cows. They are "Pay to Play." Admissions officers know this.

What IS Worth It?

Selective Programs: Programs that have an admissions test (e.g., RSI, SSP, PROMYS, TASP). If it's hard to get into, it's valuable.

Merit-Based: Programs that are free or offer scholarships.

Productive Summers: Instead of a generic course, spend the summer doing an internship or research. That is free and shows more initiative.