UCLA Pre-University Program 2026
Are you in high school or in the first year of a bachelor’s degree, and would you like to spend the summer at a major university exploring the broad pre-university experience: the main academic disciplines, campus life and American university study methods? Enrichment programs in Los Angeles, California offer an immersive experience of 3 to 9 weeks. You explore a subject in depth, spend time on a prestigious campus and strengthen your application for an international bachelor’s degree.
Pre-university program: official booking
Enrollment, campus accommodation and YDS support are coordinated through our partner La Route des Langues, an agency specializing in programs on American and British campuses.
The program at a glance
The pre-university programs in Los Angeles, California are run by UCLA (Summer Sessions, College & Career Discovery Series, Precollege Online Program). The typical format is residential, with on-campus student accommodation, meals included and supervision by faculty or doctoral students. Admission is selective and based on your application (transcripts, a personal statement, and sometimes a letter of recommendation and an interview).
Who is this program for?
Students in the last two years of high school and first-year undergraduates planning to apply to universities abroad.
- English level: TOEFL iBT 90+ or IELTS 6.5+ (sometimes B2, assessed at interview)
- Academic profile: an average of 15/20 or a GPA of 3.5+, and a strong record
- Soft skills: independence and genuine curiosity about the subject
Curriculum and skills developed
Lectures, hands-on workshops, small-group projects and field visits (labs, companies or institutions, depending on the subject).
Key skills developed:
- Academic writing
- University research methods
- Independent time management
- Adapting to the American credit system
At the end of the program, you leave with a completed project, an official certificate from the university and often a letter of recommendation from your supervising instructor: a real asset for bachelor’s applications.
A typical day
The exact schedule depends on the program you choose. Excursions and visits take place on weekends.
Cost and accommodation
2026 budget: $4,000 to $13,000 depending on the format, including tuition, accommodation and meals. Flights (€1,200–1,500 round trip from Paris), travel health insurance and spending money are extra. Partial scholarships are sometimes available based on financial need or merit.
Booking through La Route des Langues, a YDS partner
You enroll in the pre-university program in Los Angeles, California through our partner La Route des Langues, which handles program selection, your enrollment paperwork, on-campus student accommodation, airport transfers, adult supervision and 24/7 on-site assistance. YDS adds admissions coaching so you can make the most of the program in your bachelor’s application.
2026 prices and availability are on our partner’s page:
See prices & book →Frequently asked questions
How long does a pre-university program in Los Angeles, California usually last?
3 to 9 weeks, depending on the format. Shorter programs offer a taster; longer ones allow deeper study and a completed project.
What level of English do I need?
TOEFL iBT 90+ or IELTS 6.5+ (B2–C1). Some programs accept B2 if assessed at interview.
How do I enroll?
Through our partner La Route des Langues: program selection, application, campus accommodation and on-site assistance. Go to the booking page →
How can YDS help me make the most of this program in my application?
We help you choose a program that fits your long-term admissions strategy, coach you on your personal statement, prepare you for interviews and coordinate your admissions timeline. See our coaching service.
🎓 Ready to enroll in the pre-university program in Los Angeles, California?
2026 prices, dates and availability are available directly from our partner La Route des Langues, on its page co-branded with Your Dream School.
Book the pre-university program →