Are Expensive Pre-College Programs Worth It?

It depends on what you're hoping to get from them.

University-based pre-college programs can cost several thousand dollars, particularly when housing and meals are included. The experience may be valuable, but the university name alone doesn't necessarily make a program worth the price.

Consider what you're actually buying

A strong program might provide:

• Access to a subject that isn't available at your high school
• Substantial instruction from knowledgeable faculty or instructors
• Hands-on projects or research
• Exposure to college-level work
• The experience of living independently on a college campus
• A community of students with similar interests

Be more cautious if most of the value proposition is simply spending several weeks on a prestigious campus.

It is also important to distinguish between admission to a university's summer program and admission to the university itself. Many pre-college programs are considerably less selective than undergraduate admission. And don't assume that attending a university's pre-college program provides an advantage in undergraduate admissions. If that's your primary reason for attending, you may be disappointed.

Before spending several thousand dollars, ask:

Would I still think this was a great program if a less famous university offered it?

If the answer is yes because of the curriculum, instructors, experience, or students you'll meet, it may be worth considering.