15 Summer Classes for Middle Schoolers
Participating in summer classes for middle schoolers can give you an early advantage if you are interested in business, entrepreneurship, or leadership.
What do summer classes for middle schoolers look like?
Many summer classes for middle schoolers include hands-on projects, case studies, and collaborative activities that mirror real business environments. You may work on building simple business ideas, analyzing markets, or presenting solutions, which helps develop communication and critical thinking skills.
Why participate in summer classes as a middle schooler?
These programs also allow you to build practical skills you can apply to your own ventures, whether that involves starting a small project or managing resources effectively. Additionally, participating in such programs can strengthen your academic profile by demonstrating initiative and curiosity. You also gain access to mentorship and peer networks, which can provide guidance and broaden your perspective.
For related opportunities, consider academic camps for middle schoolers and career development programs for middle schoolers.
Below is a list of 15 summer classes for middle schoolers.
15 Summer Classes for Middle Schoolers
1. UC San Diego – Middle School: Entrepreneurship for Young Innovators
Location: San Diego, CA (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: $495
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: July 13 – July 17
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Middle school students
The Entrepreneurship for Young Innovators course by UC San Diego Extended Studies introduces you to the fundamentals of starting and developing a business idea. Over five intensive days, you work through each stage of the entrepreneurial process, from ideation to building a structured business plan. The program emphasizes applied learning, where you explore concepts such as marketing, customer research, budgeting, and financial planning in a practical context. You participate in guided activities and collaborative discussions that simulate real business decision-making. The course also encourages teamwork, allowing you to exchange ideas and refine your approach through peer feedback. By the end of the program, you present your business concept, demonstrating your understanding of core entrepreneurial principles.
2. Junior Innovator Program
Location: 100% virtual, with one-on-one mentorship and interactive events
Cost/Stipend: Varies by program; need-based financial aid is available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: Flexible start dates; vary by cohort
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Open to middle school students
The Junior Innovator Program is a virtual entrepreneurship incubator in which you build a project to address a real-world problem. You begin by identifying an idea and refining it through structured modules on ideation, market research, and business fundamentals. One-on-one mentorship sessions guide you through each stage, helping you evaluate demand, design solutions, and think strategically. The program also includes interactive elements such as fireside chats, group discussions, and networking with a global cohort. You gain exposure to professionals from organizations like Google and McKinsey, which helps contextualize how startups operate in practice. Throughout the program, you develop communication and leadership skills by pitching your project and incorporating feedback.
3. UC Berkeley Academic Talent Development Program (ATDP) – Secondary Division
Location: UC Berkeley (in-person) + online options
Cost/Stipend: Tuition-based; financial aid available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; ~20–24 students per class
Program Dates: June 22 – July 31 (some 4-week options available)
Application Deadline: Early: February 25 | Standard: March 23 | Extended: May 29
Eligibility: Grades 7–11 (some courses open to advanced 6th graders)
The UC Berkeley Academic Talent Development Program (ATDP) offers rigorous academic courses designed to help you explore subjects in depth or transition into more advanced coursework. You choose a single course and engage in intensive study, often covering semester- or year-long material in a condensed format. Classes are highly interactive, combining live instruction with independent work to build critical thinking and subject mastery. The program emphasizes both academic challenge and collaboration, allowing you to work closely with peers who share similar interests. You can select from a wide range of topics, including STEM, writing, and interdisciplinary subjects. Coursework requires a significant time commitment, helping you develop discipline and time management skills.
4. Veritas AI – AI Trailblazers
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; small groups (approx. 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio)
Program Dates: 25 hours (10 weeks in spring or 2 weeks in summer)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Grades 6–8
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI introduces you to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning in a structured, beginner-friendly format. You start by learning the basics of Python programming and gradually move on to topics such as data analysis, regression models, and image classification. The curriculum also includes exposure to neural networks and discussions on AI ethics, helping you understand both technical and societal aspects of AI. You participate in live sessions and collaborative group work, allowing you to apply concepts in guided settings. With a low student-to-mentor ratio, you receive personalized support as you work on projects. Past participants have built machine learning models such as music classifiers and recommendation systems.
5. NYU College and Career Lab (CCL)
Location: New York University, NYC (in-person, commuter)
Cost/Stipend: Free (meals and transportation provided)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: July 6 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: NYC students in grades 7–8
The NYU College and Career Lab (CCL) is a multi-year enrichment program that introduces you to college-level academics and career pathways through structured summer and year-round experiences. During the four-week summer session, you attend lectures and workshops led by NYU faculty across fields like business, law, neuroscience, and public service. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to explore different career options through hands-on activities and field trips. You also connect with professionals, gaining insight into real-world roles such as lawyers, therapists, and entrepreneurs. Beyond the summer, monthly sessions provide continued mentorship, skill-building, and college preparation support. The program is designed to help you develop long-term academic and career goals through consistent engagement.
6. Girls Crushing It – Entrepreneurship Program & Spring Pop-Up Shop
Location: Orinda, CA (workshops) + Walnut Creek, CA (pop-up shop)
Cost/Stipend: $250; participants keep 100% of profits
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: March 8 (workshops); May 2 (pop-up shop)
Application Deadline: Not specified (refund deadline March 2)
Eligibility: Ages 8–18
The Girls Crushing It – Entrepreneurship Program is a practical, hands-on experience where you build and run your own small business from start to finish. You begin with an Entrepreneurship 101 workshop, where you learn how to generate ideas, identify target customers, and set pricing based on costs and margins. The program then moves into interactive sessions like Start-up Game Day, where you refine your business model, tackle challenges, and practice pitching your product. A key component is preparing inventory and planning how to present your brand effectively. The experience culminates in a live pop-up shop, where you sell directly to customers in a real retail environment. This allows you to apply concepts like marketing, sales, and customer engagement in real time. Managing your own revenue and expenses provides direct insight into how businesses operate.
7. Girls With Impact – Mentorship & Entrepreneurship Programs
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: Sliding scale up to $995; financial aid available (U.S. students)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts; ~10 weeks (academy program)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: Girls and those who identify as girls, ages 14–24
The Girls With Impact program offers structured mentorship and entrepreneurship training designed to help you build practical skills and long-term goals. You can participate in shorter sessions, like Empower Hour, for targeted guidance, or enroll in longer programs, such as ImpactPathways, for in-depth mentorship. The core academy includes live classes where you learn business fundamentals, develop venture ideas, and refine them with mentor feedback. You are paired with professionals from leading organizations who guide you through decision-making, planning, and execution. The program emphasizes applying concepts to real projects, helping you turn ideas into actionable plans. You also strengthen communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through regular interaction and presentations.
8. ProjectEcho – Start-Up! Summer Program
Location: School-based (in-person; supported with virtual resources and events)
Cost/Stipend: Not specified (varies by school/program implementation)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Summer (multi-week; flexible scheduling)
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Middle and high school students
The ProjectEcho – Start-Up! Summer Program is a hands-on entrepreneurship experience where you work in teams to build and develop a startup idea from the ground up. You begin by identifying real-world problems and brainstorming solutions, then move into developing your concept using tools from marketing, finance, and product design. The program emphasizes collaborative learning, with discussions and group activities that help you refine your ideas. You also participate in structured challenges such as elevator pitches, logo design competitions, and presentations, which strengthen communication and creativity. Throughout the program, you gain experience in business writing and strategic thinking. The final showcase allows you to present your startup to a panel, simulating a real investor pitch environment.
9. Youth Summer Programs – Middle School Summer Academy
Location: In-person (main campus; specific location varies)
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment (varies by class)
Program Dates: June 22 – July 31 (weekly sessions)
Application Deadline: Rolling (until sessions fill)
Eligibility: Incoming grades 6–8
The Middle School Summer Academy offers a wide range of short, week-long courses that allow you to explore different academic and creative interests. You can choose from subjects like stock market basics, entrepreneurship, coding, AI, debate, and game design, depending on the session. Each course runs in a structured format with morning or afternoon options, making it flexible to combine multiple topics. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, where you actively build projects, participate in discussions, and apply concepts in real time. Courses like financial literacy and entrepreneurship introduce foundational business concepts, while STEM and creative classes build technical and analytical skills. The variety of options allows you to experiment with different fields before committing to a specific interest.
10. Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp
Location: Dallas College Pleasant Grove Center, TX (hybrid: in-person + activities)
Cost/Stipend: Not specified
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: June 9 – July 18
Application Deadline: May 23
Eligibility: Grades 7–10
The Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp is a structured, multi-week program that guides you through the full process of building a business idea. You begin by learning foundational concepts such as entrepreneurial mindset and problem identification, then move into financial literacy, including budgeting and managing business finances. The program includes field trips and interactions with entrepreneurs, giving you insight into real-world business operations. As the weeks progress, you work on product development, marketing strategies, and content creation, applying these concepts to your own venture. You also practice pitching your idea through role-playing exercises, which helps strengthen communication and public speaking skills. The program culminates in a Business Fair, where you present your venture to an audience.
11. NSLC – Middle School Business Program
Location: American University (Washington, DC) + UC Berkeley (San Francisco, CA)
Cost/Stipend: $2,695 (commuter) / $3,095 (residential); scholarships available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Program Dates: Multiple sessions (June–July)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Middle school students
The NSLC Middle School Business Program introduces you to core business concepts through hands-on simulations and collaborative activities. You explore how ideas are developed into products, learning about entrepreneurship, branding, and pricing strategies in a structured format. The program emphasizes teamwork, where you work with peers to design and present your own business concept. Leadership development is integrated through workshops on communication, goal-setting, and interpersonal skills. In addition to classroom sessions, you participate in campus experiences, including visits to museums and local landmarks. The residential format allows you to experience college life while building independence and responsibility.
12. Fusion Academy – Summer School Programs
Location: Multiple campuses (in-person) + virtual and hybrid options
Cost/Stipend: Not specified (varies by course and format)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment; 1-to-1 or small-group format
Program Dates: Flexible summer scheduling (courses can be completed in ~4 weeks)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Middle and high school students
The Fusion Academy Summer School Programs offer highly personalized learning through one-on-one or small-group instruction. You can choose from core academic subjects, electives, or enrichment courses depending on your goals. The program allows you to either catch up on coursework, get ahead in a subject, or explore new areas of interest. Teachers tailor lessons to your pace and learning style, making the experience more focused and adaptable. You can also enroll in remediation programs for subjects like math and reading, helping you strengthen foundational skills. Additional offerings include college readiness support, such as essay writing and application guidance.
13. Ulysses S. Grant Foundation Summer Program
Location: Yale University, New Haven, CT (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: $75; full scholarships available
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: June 29 – July 30
Application Deadline: Typically opens early in the year
Eligibility: Middle school students from New Haven public and parochial schools
The Ulysses S. Grant Foundation Summer Program is an academic enrichment program led by Yale undergraduate instructors. You take courses in humanities and inquiry-based subjects, designed to strengthen critical thinking, writing, and discussion skills. The program emphasizes interactive learning, where you engage actively with material through discussions and group activities. In addition to core classes, you participate in electives and collaborative sessions that build confidence and academic readiness. The structured daily schedule helps you develop discipline and consistency in learning. The program also focuses on preparing you for future academic success, including readiness for high school and college pathways.
14. dynaMIT Summer Program
Location: MIT campus, Cambridge, MA (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective
Program Dates: August 17–21 (rising 6th–7th) | August 24–28 (rising 8th–9th)
Application Deadline: Typically spring (2026 cycle closed)
Eligibility: Rising grades 6–9 (Massachusetts students)
The dynaMIT Summer Program is a hands-on STEM enrichment experience designed to help you explore science and engineering through interactive projects. You participate in activities led by MIT undergraduate mentors, who guide you through experiments, problem-solving challenges, and collaborative learning. The program emphasizes exploration, allowing you to try different STEM topics and discover your interests. Small-group settings encourage discussion, teamwork, and personalized support. You also gain exposure to how scientific concepts are applied in real-world contexts. The mentorship component helps you build confidence and curiosity while learning directly from college students
15. Harvard Ed Portal – Summer Explorations
Location: Harvard University & partner sites, Allston-Brighton, MA (in-person)
Cost/Stipend: Free (for Ed Portal members)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Limited seats
Program Dates: June–July (varies by course)
Application Deadline: Applications open May 7 (placements announced in June)
Eligibility: Students entering grades 1–8 (must be Ed Portal members; free for eligible families)
The Harvard Ed Portal Summer Explorations program offers a variety of short, hands-on courses that allow you to explore different academic and creative interests. You can choose from topics like science, sports, and applied learning, with options such as geology, museum-based science, and athletics programs. Classes are conducted in small groups, encouraging interaction, discussion, and individualized attention. Many courses take place in unique environments, such as Harvard museums and labs, giving you exposure to real-world tools and techniques. You engage in activities such as experiments, model building, and skill-based training, depending on the course you select. The program emphasizes exploration and curiosity, helping you discover new interests in a low-pressure setting.