About

The Michigan Ross Summer Business Academy is a two-week, residential pre-college business program for rising high school seniors offered by the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Designed to introduce students to core principles and real-world applications of business thinking, the academy situates participants within a structured environment where faculty-led instruction, interactive workshops, and group projects explore what makes companies and organizations successful. The program blends classroom work with experiential learning, guest speaker sessions, company visits, and collaborative analytical tasks.

Over the course of the two-week session—offered in two cohorts from June 7 – 17, 2026, and June 21 – July 1, 2026—students attend daily class sessions and workshops led by Ross faculty and invited industry professionals. They dive into business concepts such as strategy, marketing, leadership, finance, and organizational behavior, and collaborate with peers on team-based challenges that require problem identification, analytical reasoning, and solution design. The schedule also includes speaker events and structured activities that connect academic learning to contemporary practice. While the Summer Business Academy does not confer academic credit or guarantee admission to Ross’ undergraduate programs, it provides an immersive environment for exploring business essentials.

Admissions are competitive and oriented toward rising seniors who demonstrate academic readiness and interest in business. Eligibility includes minimum academic criteria such as a 3.0 GPA, and preference is given to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and Canadian residents, though international applicants may be considered if space permits. Application components include essays, a recommendation form, and an unofficial transcript; the application fee is $75, and the program fee is $5,500. Full and partial need-based scholarships are available as part of the process. Residential housing in University of Michigan residence halls is included for all participants, with all scheduled activities and program events covered by the program fee.

Institutionally, the Summer Business Academy extends the Ross School’s mission to develop leadership and analytical skills by exposing high school students to business fundamentals in an academic community setting. Placing students within the real business school environment — from faculty instruction to structured teamwork — provides insight into both academic and organizational dynamics that underpin business study and practice.

Participants who complete the Summer Business Academy leave with enhanced understanding of foundational business domains, experience working in team-based analytical contexts, and clarity about business environments and leadership roles. For students who wish to explore business at one of the country’s top programs, Ross SBA offers an excellent opportunity.