Starting your college journey early while still in high school can open doors to unique opportunities and set students on a successful path. UVM Summer Academy has recently evolved to offer an even more immersive college campus experience program, perfect for motivated high school students to earn college credits through pre-college Summer U classes and to explore campus life. To help you navigate your options, we spoke with Aimee Adrian, UVM Pre-College Advisor, to answer the most common questions about UVM Summer Academy, the University of Vermont’s flagship pre-college summer program designed for high school students.
Continue reading to gain insights and answers to some of the most common questions about UVM Summer Academy, and how this college experience program can give high school students a head start on their future.
What exactly is the UVM Summer Academy and University of Vermont Pre-College Summer Program?
Aimee Adrian: UVM Summer Academy is a 5-week, for-credit college experience for high school students. Students live one week on campus with a cohort of other high school students, followed by a four-week Summer U college course. The program serves as an excellent bridge between high school and college, offering a glimpse into living on campus at UVM and a taking a real college class that counts for credits.
This isn’t a summer camp — students participate in a packed week of fun and immersive college experiences while on campus, followed by a serious academic commitment to a real college class taught by UVM’s expert instructors. Students will leave the program with transferable credits and a sense of confidence that truly prepares them for college.
How is the 5-week summer college campus program structured?
Aimee: The UVM Summer Academy is designed to maximize both in-person and academic learning. The program begins with one intensive residential week on UVM’s campus. During this phase, students enjoy a summer college campus program, living in dorms, forging friendships, and beginning their college journey together.
After this immersive introduction, students transition into four weeks of a summer class of their choice through UVM Summer U, available online from early July to early August. This arrangement lets students build peer relationships and gain independence learning how to navigate a college campus and schedule, and then focus on the academic aspect through Summer U classes.
What happens during the on-campus week of the UVM Summer Academy?
Aimee: The on-campus portion is at the heart of our Summer Academy experience. During the week on campus, students will participate in an array of activities, including:
- Taking part in immersive campus activities and tours
- Attending college major workshops and exploring careers
- Joining student-led panels and presentations
- Exploring hands-on classroom and lab experiences
- Building connections to campus clubs and organizations
Beyond academics, they also have full access to residential amenities including the student center, dining hall, and fitness centers. This week is structured to provide an authentic feel for life at UVM, setting the stage for a supportive and engaging summer college campus program.
Can students really earn college credit through pre-college summer classes?
Aimee: Absolutely! A major goal for this pre-college summer program is for students to earn undergraduate credits through Summer U at Vermont’s only R1 research institution. If you’re looking for a summer pre-college program that makes an academic impact, Summer U is an ideal opportunity.
The credits students earn become a permanent part of their academic record at UVM and are generally transferable to other institutions. Gaining college credits through a pre-college program like Summer Academy can reduce first-year pressures and help students explore potential majors—benefits that can shape your entire collegiate experience.
Additionally, pre-college courses are offered at a 50% discount from normal tuition, making them an affordable way to jump-start your college education.
Are credits earned through Summer Academy transferrable to other schools or institutions?
Aimee: Yes, definitely! The college credits you earn through UVM Summer Academy are generally transferable to other colleges and universities.
I always recommend that students who plan to attend a different institution check directly with that school’s registrar or admissions office to confirm how your UVM credits will transfer. UVM offers a convenient transfer credit equivalency table right on our website to help you see how credits might apply elsewhere—it’s easy to use and a great first step.
Some schools may accept your credits exactly as they are, while others might count them as electives. Either way, most students find their credits count toward graduation requirements, even if they transfer as general credit.
If your future school doesn’t have an equivalency tool, their registrar’s office can usually help guide you. It’s always a smart idea to check, but you can feel confident your UVM Summer Academy credits will support your academic progress wherever you go.
What kind of support is available in UVM Summer Academy?
Aimee: Support is central to our mission. As UVM’s Pre-College Advisor, I help students select the right pre-college summer classes and navigate the application process. During the on-campus week, dedicated staff are present to support and supervise students, ensuring their well-being.
Once Summer U classes begin, Summer Academy participants, whether attending on-campus or taking courses online, can access academic resources like the library, tutoring, and student services—just like regular undergraduate students. We offer the support system and guidance needed to help you succeed, whether you’re experiencing a college environment for the first time in person or remotely.
Who is eligible to join this summer college experience program?
Aimee: Summer Academy is open to ambitious high school juniors and seniors. If you’re a student who’s ready to challenge yourself and want a true university experience beyond the typical high school curriculum, this summer college program is designed for you.
There is no GPA requirement, and we do not require transcripts unless a student wants to enroll in a course that has prerequisites. I am happy to have a conversation with you to ensure you are prepared for the rigor of University of Vermont pre-college summer classes.
How does the transition to the 4-week Summer U academic component work?
Aimee: The transition is seamless. The first week allows students to get comfortable with UVM’s resources, faculty, and learning systems. Then once the on-campus portion is complete, the 4-week Summer U session delivers a dynamic, fast-paced academic experience typical of summer high school classes at the college level.
Students use skills and relationships formed during the residential week to help them succeed academically. The flexibility to complete courses from home during the 4-week timeline can benefit families with summer travel or other personal commitments.
What is the biggest takeaway from participating in the UVM Summer Academy?
Aimee: Confidence and independence are the cornerstones of UVM Summer Academy. Students often arrive uncertain or a little nervous, but then they “graduate” so to speak, knowing they can navigate a campus, work through a syllabus, manage their time, and succeed in college-level work. Plus, having pre-college classes on your transcript and college credits in hand gives you a tangible head start for college applications.
Ready to experience the University of Vermont Pre-College Summer Program?
Applications are open now for UVM Summer Academy, one of the region’s most respected pre-college summer programs and college experiences for high school students. Don’t miss the chance to gain credits, explore majors, and enjoy vibrant campus life at UVM this summer!
