About

The NYC Summer Academy at The School of The New York Times is a two-week, residential or commuter pre-college program for high school students (ages 15–18). Held in New York City across four sessions from June 7 to July 31, 2026, the Academy offers thematic courses spanning journalism, photojournalism, international reporting, and social justice. Students choose a specific course of study per session, such as "Reporting and Writing: Journalism Essentials" or "How to Be an Editor," and may enroll in multiple terms for a $500 discount per session. Total cost for the 2026 residential program is $7,695 (including a $255 materials fee), while day students pay $6,195. Admission is rolling, with a priority enrollment deadline of February 27, 2026. Applicants must submit an online application, a $50 fee, a school transcript, and a short-essay response.

Academically, the program emphasizes applied analysis and real-time engagement. Instruction is delivered by journalists and industry professionals affiliated with The New York Times. Students participate in writing labs and field-based learning, utilizing the city as an extended classroom. Residential students live in supervised housing near Lincoln Center and participate in organized evening programming.

The curriculum is built around newsroom thinking—focusing on sourcing, narrative framing, and ethical reasoning. New for 2026, the program highlights a "Newsroom Leadership" track for students interested in the editorial and business sides of media. While the Academy does not confer college credit, it provides a high-visibility platform for students to build a professional-caliber portfolio.