12 Summer Programs for Middle School Students in Chicago
As a middle school student, summer is a good time for you to explore new interests, work on projects, and develop skills outside the classroom. These programs let you spend focused time on subjects such as science, technology, art, writing, or mathematics while working through structured activities and projects. Many opportunities come from prestigious organizations, giving you access to expert guidance, advanced tools, and experiences that go beyond what school alone can offer.
Why choose summer programs in Chicago?
Chicago offers a wide range of summer programs hosted by universities, cultural institutions, and education-focused organizations across the city. Depending on the program, you might work on coding projects, math challenges, art or film creations, research assignments, or speaking and debate activities with guidance from instructors. These programs are great for students who live nearby and want a summer full of learning and discovery, as well as for out-of-town students curious about the city’s educational opportunities.
From all the options available, we’ve highlighted 12 programs for middle school students in Chicago.
If you are looking for online programs, check out our blog here.
1. UChicago Laboratory Schools Summer Lab
Location: University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Chicago, IL
Cost: Varies by program (financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Multiple options between June 22 and July 31
Application deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8
Summer Lab gives you the chance to explore a wide mix of interests, from robotics and AI to ceramics, photography, and basketball, all on the University of Chicago campus. The summer program for middle school students in Chicago balances independent and group projects, whether you’re coding with classmates, performing in theater exercises, or designing creative works. Leadership activities and off-campus field trips add variety and real-world experiences. You might sketch local architecture in Hyde Park one day and practice debate or music composition the next. By the end, you’ll have both skills and tangible projects to reflect your summer’s work.
2. Veritas AI’s AI Trailblazers
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: 25 hours over 10 weeks (on weekends) during the spring cohort and 25 hours over 2 weeks (on weekdays) during the summer cohort
Application deadline: Rolling deadlines. You can apply to the program here
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8
In this online program, you’re introduced to artificial intelligence through Python programming, data analysis, and machine learning concepts. You work with real datasets to understand how models are built, evaluated, and refined, gaining practical coding experience along the way. Ethical discussions on fairness, bias, and responsible AI use are woven into the lessons. Small-group sessions allow for personalized feedback and guidance as you progress through exercises. By the end of the 25-hour program, you’ll complete a project that demonstrates your understanding of AI and data science, possibly connected to a personal interest like music or environmental issues.
3. University of Chicago: Summer Young Scholars Program (YSP)
Location: University of Chicago campus, Chicago, IL
Cost: Participation fee is structured based on family income
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 30 – July 25 (tentative, based on previous years)
Application deadline: April 11 (tentative, based on previous years)
Eligibility: 7th through 12th graders in the Chicago area and surrounding suburbs
This summer program for middle school students in Chicago immerses you in advanced mathematical thinking through lectures, small-group problem-solving, and computer lab research. Depending on the year, the focus may be on number theory or geometry, giving students a chance to explore topics rarely covered in school. You work alongside college mentors and faculty to tackle challenging problems while developing analytical and reasoning skills. Each day combines lectures, collaborative problem sessions, and independent exploration, with breaks and research time. YSP also connects participants with Math Circles of Chicago, broadening engagement with a wider mathematical community.
4. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program. Financial aid is available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Application deadline: Multiple rolling deadlines for JEP cohorts across the year; you can apply using this application link.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
Lumiere Junior Explorer pairs you with a PhD mentor from a leading university to guide an eight-week research project in your area of interest. You start by exploring different disciplines and developing research skills, including formulating questions, gathering sources, and organizing findings. Weekly one-on-one meetings allow for continuous feedback as you develop a structured research plan. Projects can span diverse topics, such as climate science, programming, or historical investigation. By the end, you produce a research paper, case study, or creative presentation that reflects your independent work and learning process.
5. The Chicago Academy For The Arts – Summer Intensives
Location: The Chicago Academy for the Arts, Chicago, IL
Cost: Session 1: $995 | Session 2: $497
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Session 1: June 8 – 18 | Session 2: June 22 – 26
Application deadline: Registration opens in December
Eligibility: Students entering grades 7-8
This two-week summer program for middle school students in Chicago immerses you in creative practice under the guidance of professional artists and instructors. You’ll participate in workshops and projects across dance, music, theater, visual arts, and media, developing both technical skill and artistic expression. Assignments might include producing an animation, recording a song, or performing in a modern adaptation of a play. Classes are project-based and small, providing personalized mentorship and real insight into creative careers. The program concludes with a showcase where your work is shared with family and peers.
6. MathCON Summer Camp
Location: Loyola Water Tower campus, Chicago, IL
Cost: $2,450 (with housing) | $2,150 (without housing)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly competitive
Dates: June 23 – 27 (tentative, based on previous years)
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: MathCON students from grades 7-12
MathCON Summer Camp offers a one-week intensive experience for students eager to explore advanced mathematics. You engage with topics such as number theory, algebra, geometry, and combinatorics through guided instruction, puzzles, and team problem-solving. The program balances rigorous study with recreational activities, including a boat cruise and group games. Small classes provide opportunities for individualized instruction and mentorship from experienced instructors. Held at Loyola University Chicago, the camp emphasizes innovative thinking and the development of analytical skills. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of complex mathematical concepts and an appreciation for problem-solving beyond standard classroom learning.
7. SAIC Middle School Summer Camps
Location: School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost: $1,300
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: Session 1: June 29 – July 10 | Session 2: July 13 – 24 | Session 3: July 27 – August 7 (tentative, based on previous years)
Application deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: Middle school students (Ages 10–13)
At the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, middle school summer camps run in two-week sessions focused on specific disciplines such as animation, video production, comics, toy design, and architecture. You work in small classes led by SAIC faculty and practicing artists, using studio spaces and tools similar to those used by college-level students. Each course centers on completing structured projects, such as short animations, designed objects, or visual narratives, while learning core techniques and processes. Instruction includes demonstrations, guided practice, and regular critiques that help you refine your work. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago are integrated into the curriculum to study artworks, design principles, and visual storytelling in context.
8. Northwestern Center for Talent Development (CTD): Summer Programs
Location: Northwestern University, Evanston (about 30 minutes from Chicago), IL
Cost: $1,005 - $6,105; Financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Small class size
Dates: 1- and 3-week sessions between June 28 and August 7
Application deadline: One week before the session start date
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8 (varies with each course); More info here
This summer program offers online, day, and residential options for academically motivated middle school students. Courses cover subjects such as writing, science, mathematics, technology, and leadership, and are designed to move at a faster pace than typical school classes. You complete structured assignments and projects, including writing portfolios, introductory programming projects, or research-based presentations. Residential students live on Northwestern University’s campus and participate in supervised evening and community activities.
9. Illinois Tech Elevate College Prep Summer Programs
Location: Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Cost: Varies by program
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Moderate
Dates: June – July (varies by program)
Application deadline: Typically in May
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–8
Illinois Tech’s Elevate College Prep summer programs offer in-person and online courses in areas such as coding, robotics, engineering, chemistry, pre-health, and cybersecurity. These summer programs for middle school students in Chicago are designed around project-based learning, where you apply concepts through guided activities and collaborative assignments. In-person sessions take place on Illinois Tech’s campus and provide access to university classrooms, labs, and technical facilities. Course options range from building robots and conducting science experiments to exploring engineering design and decision science.
10. Science and Arts Academy Summer Programs
Location: Science and Arts Academy (Chicago metropolitan area), Des Plaines, IL
Cost: $540 – $1,150
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Not specified
Dates: June – August (sessions vary from one to multiple weeks); info here
Application deadline: Opens January 12
Eligibility: Students entering grades 6–8
Science and Arts Academy Summer Adventures offers two-week enrichment sessions for middle school students across science, math, technology, art, and theater. You select three morning classes per session, including options like robotics, chemistry, ceramics, creative writing, and chess. Classes are hands-on and programmed to match student readiness levels, with instruction led by experienced teachers. Students enrolled in the full-day option also participate in afternoon recreation, including cooperative games, sports, and team-building activities. Half-day options focus exclusively on academic enrichment.
11. Stanford Middle School Scholars Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: None
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; approximately 12 students per cohort
Dates: Summer Course: July 6 – 24 | Fall Semester Meetings: August 26 – December 9
Application deadline: March 25
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-7 from low-income families (household income under $90,000 annually) who reside in and attend school in the United States; minimum B-grade average required
The Stanford Middle School Scholars Program is a tuition-free academic program that begins with a three-week online summer course. Students are placed in small cohorts and study subjects such as math, philosophy, or media literacy with experienced instructors. After the summer course, participants continue meeting weekly from August through December for academic skill-building and mentorship. Sessions focus on topics such as academic writing, study strategies, and preparation for selective high schools. The online summer program for middle school students in Chicago also includes guidance on identifying and applying to enrichment opportunities. Families participate in scheduled meetings to support student progress.
12. Sally Ride Science Academy at the University of California, San Diego
Location: Remote
Cost: $275–$320, based on the course you choose
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: July 6 – 24
Application deadline: May 24
Eligibility: Middle school students
The Sally Ride Science Academy runs week-long virtual workshops for middle school students, with each session dedicated to a specific STEAM subject such as marine biology, robotics, coding, geology, or digital media. Programs follow a daily schedule that includes live instruction, guided activities, and independent work completed online. You’ll carry out assigned tasks such as analyzing datasets, completing coding exercises, running virtual experiments, or creating digital projects related to the workshop theme. Course materials include case studies and examples drawn from current research and industry practices. The curriculum also incorporates lessons on the work of women scientists and engineers as part of the academic content.
Image source - Uni of Chicago Logo