Cornell Summer College Program 2026
Are you in high school or in the first year of a Bachelor’s degree, and would you like to explore the pre-college experience at Cornell, choosing from 60+ introductory academic courses in science, engineering, business, hospitality and the humanities at a major university over the summer? These enrichment programs in Ithaca, New York offer an immersive 3- to 6-week experience that lets you explore a subject in depth, spend time on a prestigious campus and strengthen your application for an international Bachelor’s degree.
Cornell Summer College Program: Official Booking
Registration, on-campus accommodation and YDS support, coordinated through our partner La Route des Langues.
The program at a glance
The Cornell Summer College programs in Ithaca, New York are run by Cornell University (Cornell Summer College: Pre-College Studies). Typical format: residential, with on-campus student accommodation, meals included, and supervision by faculty or doctoral students. Admission is selective and based on an application (transcripts, a personal statement, and sometimes a recommendation letter and an interview).
For further reading, see also: Dartmouth College Admission 2026: Cost, Application.
Who is this program for?
Students in the last two years of high school and first-year university students planning to apply abroad.
- English level: TOEFL iBT 90+ or IELTS 6.5+ (sometimes B2, assessed at interview)
- Academic profile: 15/20 average or GPA 3.5+, with a strong record
- Soft skills: independence and genuine curiosity about the subject
Program and skills developed
Lectures, hands-on workshops, small-group projects and field visits.
Key skills developed:
- A choice of study topic from more than 60 subjects
- Ivy League academic methods
- Academic writing
- Public speaking
- Research in a university library
At the end of the program, you leave with a completed project, an official certificate from the university and, often, a recommendation letter written by your supervising instructor.
A typical day
The exact schedule varies depending on the program you choose. Excursions and visits on weekends.
Cost and accommodation
2026 budget: $6,500 to $14,500, including tuition, accommodation and meals. Flights, travel health insurance and spending money are extra.
Booking through La Route des Langues, a YDS partner
Registration is handled by our partner La Route des Langues, which coordinates program selection, application 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 this program in your Bachelor’s application.
See prices & book →Frequently asked questions
How long does the program usually last?
3 to 6 weeks, depending on the format. Shorter programs offer an introduction; longer ones let you go deeper.
What level of English do I need?
TOEFL iBT 90+ or IELTS 6.5+ (B2-C1).
How do I register?
Through our partner La Route des Langues. See the booking page →
How can YDS help me make the most of this program in my application?
Program selection, personal statement coaching, interview preparation and timeline planning. See our coaching service.
🎓 Ready to sign up?
Prices, dates and availability for 2026 are available directly from our partner La Route des Langues.
Book the program →