Summer Springboard
ON THE CAMPUS OF
UCLA
PICK A 2-WEEK PRE-COLLEGE COURSE OF YOUR CHOICE; OR PICK TWO COURSES FOR A 4-WEEK EXPERIENCE.
Program Highlights
- Engage in hands-on courses like Aerospace Engineering, Filmmaking, and Emergency Medicine, taught by industry professionals.
- Participate in college readiness workshops covering topics such as leadership, finance, and college admissions.
- Experience immersive excursions such as visits to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Warner Brothers Studios.
- Explore Los Angeles landmarks including Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, and Ovation Hollywood.
- Stay in UCLA dormitories with 24-hour security, dining facilities, and recreational amenities.
- Connect with peers globally through mentor-led clubs and evening social activities.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Campus Overview
Los Angeles offers some of the best weather in Southern California year-round and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks, museums, leading industries, and notable universities.
For the seventh consecutive year, UCLA has ranked #1 in top public universities in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report. Its premiere location and elite academic status complement the Summer Springboard experience well to create one of the best summer educational opportunities for college-bound teens.
RESOURCES
Apply Now
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Download Infosheet
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Request a Catalog
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Schedule a Call
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View Campus Brochure
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Watch Campus Video
Click here to navigate to YouTube and watch our short video detailing our summer program on this campus for teens.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Dates & Tuition
| 2026 Dates |
|---|
| Session 1: June 21 – July 3, 2026 |
| Session 2: July 5 – July 17, 2026 |
| Session 3: July 19 – July 31, 2026 |
Click here to enroll in this program using our online enrollment form.
| Tuition |
|---|
| Residential Tuition: $5,998 |
| Commuter Tuition: $3,298 |
| Application Fee: $99+ |
Apply by November 30 to lock in the lowest prices of the year. Tuition increases on December 1.
Tuition Protection Plan: Allows for cancellation for any reason up until the day of the program.
| Location |
|---|
| City: Los Angeles |
| State: California |
| Campus: UCLA |
*Learn more about our campus partners and their relationship to our programs.
Two-Week Summer Program
Residential Students
- Includes: all meals, lodging, excursions, academic course, weekend excursions
- Excludes: optional airport pickup and drop-off service (available for an additional fee)
Commuter Students
- Includes: lunch, academic course, excursions, programming from 9am to
5pm, Monday-Friday - Excludes: lodging, breakfast, dinner, weekend excursions (can be added on for $125 per day)
Supplements
- $250 tuition extra (mandatory) for Emergency Medicine course
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Academic Courses
Aerospace Engineering
With leading aerospace companies like Boeing, SpaceX, and NASA nearby, Summer Springboard in LA offers an in-depth exploration of flight history, mechanics, systems engineering, design, propulsion, and orbital mechanics. Students will also learn the differences between aeronautical and astronautical engineering.
Through hands-on projects, students will design and test gliders or rockets to apply flight concepts practically. Prior knowledge in algebra and geometry is recommended, while trigonometry, calculus, and physics are strongly recommended but not required.
Business & Entrepreneurship
Summer Springboard’s Business & Entrepreneurship course at UCLA guides students through the essentials of starting and growing a business. Topics include idea generation, customer relationships, revenue streams, human resource management, product design, cost accounting, financial analysis, and marketing.
Throughout the course, students collaborate in groups to create a business idea and develop it through the entrepreneurial process. The program culminates in a Shark Tank–style pitch, where students present their ideas to a panel of business experts.
Criminal & Forensic Science
“It’s a match!” — a familiar phrase from crime shows, but how accurate is it? Summer Springboard’s Criminal & Forensic Science course at UCLA reveals the true role of crime scene investigators, teaching how evidence is collected, preserved, and presented. Students will also explore career paths in forensic science.
Participants apply their learning by processing a mock crime scene and presenting findings in a moot court. Whether interested in policing, forensic identification, or lab work, this course sharpens investigative and scientific skills.
Emergency Medicine
The vital role of emergency care professionals has never been clearer. Summer Springboard’s Emergency Medicine course at UCLA prepares students for careers as EMTs, paramedics, ER doctors, or ICU nurses by teaching foundational skills and exposing them to diverse healthcare paths.
Students learn first aid, triage, wound care, and life-saving techniques through hands-on activities and simulations. They will research patient histories, diagnose, create treatment plans, and apply their knowledge in realistic emergency response scenarios.
Music Production & Management
Summer Springboard’s Music Production and Management program offers high school students hands-on experience in the creative and business sides of the music industry, all set in Los Angeles, a global entertainment hub. This location provides unmatched industry exposure and networking opportunities.
Students engage in songwriting, production, recording, and learn key business topics like copyright, royalties, and artist management. Through studio visits and expert guest lectures, they develop creative and business skills, culminating in a final project to prepare for a music career.
Filmmaking
Los Angeles, home to the Oscars and Emmys, is the perfect place to fuel your passion for filmmaking. Summer Springboard’s UCLA Filmmaking course covers scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, sound design, and editing, helping students discover their favorite areas.
Students spend the first week learning key filmmaking skills, then work in groups during the second week to create a short film. Each student focuses on the part of the process that matches their passion and strengths.
Psychology & Neuroscience
The adult human brain, though only about 3 pounds and 2% of body weight, defines our individuality and controls language, thought, memory, and behavior. Its inner workings shape why people act differently, making it one of science’s greatest mysteries.
Summer Springboard’s Psychology & Neuroscience course at UCLA explores brain anatomy, function, and its influence on behavior, emotions, personality, and mental health. Students will design experiments, test their own psychology theories, and present their findings.
Sports Management
Successful management is essential across all areas of the sports industry, from professional to amateur levels. Key elements include personnel management, program development, marketing, facilities, information, and legal responsibilities.
Depending on your interests, a sports management career could involve working directly with athletes and coaches or behind the scenes as a promoter, marketing manager, or sports economist. This course explores the business side of sports and the many career paths available.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Activities & Trips
We’ll step off-campus to explore what the lively city of Los Angeles has to offer!
Home to some of the most iconic landmarks, tourist attractions, museums, and beaches, L.A. has no shortage of fun.
Below are just some examples of what our students will get to see and explore:
Griffith Park/Observatory
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of L.A. and the iconic Hollywood sign from the Griffith Observatory. Hike portions of the Mt. Hollywood Trail to explore the local vegetation and see even more unique angles of the city.
Ovation Hollywood
Formerly known as Hollywood and Highland (being the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue), explore the iconic shopping center and entertainment complex in the Hollywood district of L.A. Don’t forget to get a picture of your favorite celebrity star on the Walk of Fame before we leave!
The Grove & Farmers Market
Explore a mix of retail, restaurants, and entertainment in an open-air environment, known to be frequented by celebrities. The Farmers Market – located on the same grounds – is home to more than 100 shops, grocers, and eateries in an al-fresco setting.
Santa Monica Pier & Sunset
Nothing beats a California sunset, and what better place to take that in than at the Santa Monica Pier. Students will have the opportunity to explore the Santa Monica Pier – which offers a full-service amusement park and a variety of souvenir shops, street vendors, and more. Before we leave, we’ll stay to experience a quintessential west coast sunset.
Amusement Park
Students will visit Pacific Park in Santa Monica where they will have unlimited ride wrist bands.
Course-Specific Excursions
Each academic program may also take subject matter specific excursions to help round out the student experience.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Student Life
Get a head start on college life by immersing yourself in the vibrant student experience at UCLA during your Summer Springboard program. From enjoying meals in the dining halls to settling into your university dormitory, you’ll get an authentic taste of campus living. Explore UCLA’s beautiful campus, meet fellow students, and soak up the energy of a diverse, dynamic community.
Whether you’re a residential student enjoying evening social events or a commuter participating in daily campus activities, your Summer Springboard experience will be full of fun and meaningful moments. Both options provide unique chances to connect, grow, and build lasting friendships. Get ready to start your unforgettable UCLA college journey!
TYPICAL DAY IN THE LIFE
8:00am Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast with your fellow students as you get ready to start your day on-program. Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall.
9:00am Academic Course
Take part in your selected academic course. This college-style learning experience is designed to give high school students hands-on exposure to a specific field of study.
12:00pm Lunch
Enjoy lunch on-campus at one of the many restaurant options. The freedom to choose during lunch helps accommodate all kinds of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and common food allergies—ensuring every student can find something satisfying and safe to eat while connecting with friends over a great meal.
1:30pm Recreational Activity or Academic Excursion
At Summer Springboard at UCLA, academic excursions are off-campus field trips that connect directly to each course, giving students real-world insight into their chosen field. Recreational activities offer fun and social ways to unwind, explore the area, and build friendships through beach outings, campus games, local attractions, and more. Together, these experiences enrich both learning and student life in a vibrant, hands-on way.
3:00pm College Readiness Workshop or True You
At Summer Springboard at UCLA, College Readiness Workshops help students prepare for life after high school with practical tools for navigating the college admissions process—covering topics like essay writing, interview skills, and application strategy. The True You curriculum focuses on self-discovery and personal growth, encouraging students to explore their strengths, values, and goals. Together, these sessions empower students to make confident, informed decisions about their future—academically, professionally, and personally.
5:00pm Commuter Students Depart
For those students that have selected the commuter option, they will depart campus for the day while residential students prepare for dinner and evening activities.
6:00pm Dinner
It’s been a long, eventful day! It’s time to head to the dining hall or other dining location and eat well to restore your energy reserves before taking part in clubs or other nighttime activities.
7:00pm Clubs for Residential Students
Residential students will participate in clubs or other evening activities based on the specific itinerary for the day. It’s a great way to cap off another exciting day with Summer Springboard at UCLA!
10:30pm Dorm Checks for Residential Students
Residential students will turn in for the night to rest in their dorm rooms and get ready for the big day ahead tomorrow.
Housing
At UCLA, Summer Springboard students are housed in either double or triple rooms. Students being housed in triple rooms is more common. There is a shared bathroom within the room. Students are housed by gender, and genders are separated by room. Dorm rooms contain Twin XL-sized beds, desks, drawers, mirror, and a closet. A basic linen package is included in the cost of the Residential tuition, and is provided by UCLA, in the form of a fitted sheet, flat sheet, blanket, pillow, pillowcase, and bath towel.
Summer Springboard staff live on each floor to create a community, provide support, plan activities, and help students get the most out of their program. Other members of the Summer Springboard staff, including the Campus Director, Assistant Campus Director, and other staff also reside within the dorms during the course of the program and are available to support students and address emergencies, 24 hours a day.
Security
All dormitories have 24-hour security and require electronic keys to enter each building and dorm room. UCLA Police is available 24/7 and makes regular patrols of the campus and residence halls. Students are also required to be in their rooms past 10PM for safety and accountability purposes.
Facilities
Snack and drink vending is available in each dormitory, as well as an ice machine and water filtration station. Students are highly encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and fill their bottles with ice water regularly. Laundry machines are also available in each dormitory, with washers and dryers. Past rates have been $1/wash and $0.75/dry. WiFi is available throughout the dormitory.
The university is committed to providing a healthy, smoke-free environment for students, faculty and staff. Accordingly, no smoking or vaping is permitted in student rooms or inside buildings, including lounges and balconies.
Dining
Most meals will be in the on-campus dining hall. The dining hall offers a wide selection of food, accommodating a variety of diets – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and specific food allergies.
Summer Springboard on the campus of
UCLA
Video & Testimonials
Please note that activities, courses and other items on the itinerary for this program are subject to change. This video may reflect an older version of this program. Please refer to the program infosheet and this website page for the most up-to-date information on this campus-based program.
“Summer spring board allowed me to have a better insight on what it means to be an aerospace engineer, and what physics goes into it. It allowed me to have a better understanding of what college will be like, and makes me more excited to experience college.”
– Divyanshu S. | Alumni Student
“First time to the US. Student from Taiwan really enjoyed this whole program and this strengthen my will to attend college in the US. Thanks for all the RA and friends throughout this amazing adventure!”
– Chia-Hao L. | Alumni Student
“Summer Springboard was truly the best way to experience a college lifestyle without actually being in college. The mentors were extremely kind and the courses themselves were beyond interesting. I met great people, and would do it all over again if I could!”
– Amanda M. | Alumni Student
*Summer Springboard programs are not run by our campus partners (with the exception of Cal Poly, NYSID and UW Foster which are run in partnership with SSB). Universities and their affiliated departments and partners do not control and are not responsible or liable in any manner for any part of the Summer Springboard program.