13 Summer Math Programs for High School Students in California
If you’re a high school student interested in math who wants to learn beyond the classroom, summer programs can provide opportunities to explore advanced academics and explore careers in the field. Summer math programs let you explore topics ranging from number theory and proofs to modeling systems with coding. Whether your interest lies in abstract reasoning or applied problem-solving, there is a program suited to your requirements.
California offers a range of math-focused opportunities for high schoolers through its universities and organizations. From mathematical research projects and Olympiad preparation to Python-based simulations, the programs on this list highlight some of the best available options. To help you get started, we have put together 13 summer math programs for high schoolers in California, where you can develop your skills and work with mentors.
1. Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC)
Location: Stanford, CA (Residential and Online)
Cost/Stipend: Varies by format
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Extremely selective
Dates: Online Session 1: June 16 – July 4, Residential: June 22 – July 18, Online Session 2: July 7 – 25
Application Deadline: February 3
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors (grades 10th to 11th)
SUMaC offers an advanced, proof-intensive curriculum covering subjects such as algebraic topology, number theory, and abstract algebra. You’ll work with definitions and theorems in a style similar to university-level courses, guided by Stanford faculty. Both the online and residential tracks focus on formal reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical writing. You will participate in collaborative projects and discussions that highlight the connection between mathematics and its applications in other fields. SUMaC is one of the most academically challenging summer math opportunities in California, designed for students already comfortable with high-level math.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Fully remote (participate from anywhere in the world)
Cost/Stipend: Varies according to program (financial aid available)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: Multiple 8–12 week cohorts offered year-round
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: High school, gap year, and undergraduate students who can commit 10–20 hours per week
Ladder Internships is a competitive program designed for motivated high school students seeking real-world experience with fast-growing start-ups. During the program, you’ll work with companies across industries such as artificial intelligence, deep tech, health tech, marketing, journalism, and consulting. Some of these start-ups are rapidly expanding, with funding rounds often exceeding $1 million. As an intern, you’ll contribute to active projects, collaborate with your Manager, and receive guidance from a dedicated Ladder Coach. The program concludes with interns presenting their work directly to the company team. Each cohort runs virtually for about 8 weeks, offering hands-on professional experience without any location barriers.
3. COSMOS
Location: UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Los Angeles, UC San Diego, UC Santa Cruz (Residential)
Cost: $5,300; financial aid available for eligible California students
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; ~160–200 students per campus
Program Dates: July 6 – August 1 (UCI, UCSD) and July 6 – August 2 (UCD, UCLA, UCSC)
Application Deadline: February 7
Eligibility: California residents in grades 8–12 with strong STEM records
COSMOS is a 4-week residential program where students join specialized clusters combining lectures, labs, and projects in STEM fields, including mathematics. You’ll work with UC faculty, use advanced facilities, and collaborate on team-based projects. The math-related clusters often integrate computer science, data science, or engineering, offering opportunities to apply theory in a practical environment. Along with hands-on learning, you’ll strengthen communication skills through written and oral presentations, all while connecting with a talented peer group.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Varies; financial aid available
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Highly selective (~15%)
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year: Summer (June–August), Fall (September–December), Winter (December–February), and Spring (March–June)
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), Winter (November)
Eligibility: High school students with strong academic performance (recommended GPA of 3.3+); no prior subject expertise required
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program offers motivated high school students the opportunity to conduct original research under the mentorship of a PhD scholar. Over 12 weeks (with extended options available), you’ll work 1-on-1 with a mentor to design, execute, and write up a research project. The topics range across fields such as psychology, data science, mathematics, engineering, international relations, physics, and more. You will learn research design, methodology, and academic writing, producing an independent research paper with optional guidance for publication or competitions.
5. UCLA Summer Sessions – Summer Math Courses
Location: Online and In-Person, UCLA Campus, Los Angeles, CA
Cost/Stipend: ~$300–$400 per unit + campus/registration fees
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Dates: June 23 – August 1 (Session A); additional sessions are offered
Application Deadline: Rolling; early application is encouraged
Eligibility: High school students who meet the prerequisites
UCLA offers a range of rigorous summer math courses suited for advanced high school students prepared for college-level challenges. The options include Calculus, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, and Differential Equations. Placements may depend on AP scores or UCLA’s diagnostic testing. You’ll study alongside undergraduates following the university’s fast-paced quarter system. Courses emphasize both theoretical understanding and practical application, making this a strong fit for students interested in STEM majors that require a strong math foundation.
6. Russian School of Mathematics (RSM)
Location: Multiple sites across California
Cost: $300 - $600+ (Varies depending on the course and location)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment; advanced competition track selective
Dates: Typically June–August; varies by location
Application Deadline: Rolling; early sign-up recommended
Eligibility: Students in grades 6–12 (placement assessment required)
RSM offers a structured summer program that builds skills in algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus, and statistics. You will be grouped into tiered levels—Accelerated, Advanced, or Honors—based on your placement assessments. Special tracks focus on standardized test prep (SAT/ACT/AP) and math competition readiness. The curriculum is based on Eastern European methods, focusing on problem-solving, abstraction, and logical reasoning. If you’re aiming to prepare for AMC, AIME, or simply to get ahead academically, this program provides a highly disciplined and supportive environment.
7. Stanford Advanced Mathematics Courses
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: $1,700 + $35 as registration fee
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; varies depending on the course
Dates: June 17 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 12
Eligibility: High school students who meet prerequisites (e.g., AP Calculus or higher)
These online courses are modeled on the basis of Stanford’s advanced math curriculum and include subjects like Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Real and Complex Analysis, and Number Theory. The instruction includes lectures, advanced textbooks, and weekly assignments that focus both on theory and practical problem-solving. Admission requires prior exposure to advanced math, ensuring students are prepared for abstract, proof-based material. For students seeking a university-level math experience from home, this program provides both challenge and structure.
8. AwesomeMath Summer Program
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Depends on the chosen session
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; varies depending on the session
Dates: 3-week sessions offered from June to August
Application Deadline: Rolling until filled
Eligibility: Middle and high school students with a strong math background
AwesomeMath is designed to sharpen advanced problem-solving skills across algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory. With the right mix of rigorous academics and interactive problem-solving, it has become a popular choice for math competition enthusiasts. Courses are taught through live lectures, daily problem-solving sessions, and structured assignments. The program is well-suited for students preparing for competitions like AMC, AIME, or USAMO. You’ll also benefit from instructor feedback, optional social activities, and access to a global peer network.
9. Summer Academy in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Location: California State University, Fresno, CA
Cost/Stipend: $285
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open to qualified applicants; limited space
Program Dates: June 16 – 20
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Students entering grades 4th–12th
This 1-week academy immerses students in STEM learning, with a strong emphasis on applying mathematics to practical contexts. You will engage in labs, design challenges, and debates focused on topics such as wind energy, physics, and mathematical modeling. Faculty and educators from Fresno State lead sessions that combine theory with hands-on projects and interactive software tools. By the end of the program, you’ll receive a Certificate of Accomplishment and gain practical skills in geometry, physics-based reasoning, and collaborative problem-solving.
10. Mathematics Intensive Summer Session (MISS)
Location: California State University, Fullerton, CA
Cost/Stipend: Free
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective
Program Dates: July 7 – August 1
Application Deadline: June 6
Eligibility: Female high school students (rising sophomores–seniors); must be college-bound
MISS is a 4-week commuter program designed to prepare female high school students for success in advanced math coursework. Each day includes 6 hours of interactive instruction, covering material from algebra through pre-calculus, depending on your academic level. The program also supports students who will be the first in their families to attend college. Participants benefit from small-group work, problem-solving sessions, and access to resources such as textbooks and calculators. The goal is to build confidence, fluency, and readiness for college preparation in math.
11. Mathnasium Summer Program
Location: Glendale, CA
Cost/Stipend: Varies depending on the number of sessions selected
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Open enrollment
Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Kindergarten–12th grade students (placement based on diagnostic test)
Mathnasium offers a flexible summer program tailored to each student’s current skill level and academic goals. After an initial diagnostic assessment, high school students receive personalized learning plans related to areas such as algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, or standardized test preparation. Instruction emphasizes problem-solving strategies, number sense, and mastery of core concepts. Sessions are typically 60 minutes and scheduled throughout the summer based on student needs. This program is ideal for individuals who want personalized support to strengthen their school math skills or prepare for the upcoming year.
12. UC Berkeley Summer Math Courses
Location: Berkeley, CA (in-person and online)
Cost: ~$550 per unit + campus fees
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Open enrollment
Dates: Session C: June 17 – August 9, Session D: July 1 – August 9
Application Deadline: May–June (varies depending on the session)
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors; prerequisites and instructor approval may be required
UC Berkeley offers a wide range of math courses during the summer, giving high school students the opportunity to experience college-level instruction. Course options include Calculus I & II, Calculus for Life Sciences, and Linear Algebra with Differential Equations. Classes focus on proof-based reasoning, advanced integration methods, and matrix operations. You’ll experience Berkeley's semester system while working alongside undergraduates. This program is well-suited for students eager to challenge themselves with university-level content and build their preparation for majors in STEM.
13. Research Mentorship Program – Math Track
Location: UC Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA
Cost: $4,700 (commuter), $6,599 (residential)
Acceptance rate/cohort size: Selective; varies depending on the track
Dates: June 17 – August 2
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Students in grades 10th–11th (exceptional 9th graders are considered); minimum GPA of 3.8
This 6-week program introduces high school students to academic research under the guidance of UC Santa Barbara faculty. In the mathematics track, you’ll work on original research that frequently overlaps with physics, data science, or computer science. The structure includes faculty mentorship, group collaboration, literature reviews, and data analysis. You’ll practice writing research papers and presenting findings in a professional environment. By the end of the program, you’ll gain experience in mathematical modeling, critical thinking, and scholarly communication.
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