About

The Penn Medicine Summer Program for High School Students is a four-week residential medical immersion at the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania. Held on Penn’s Philadelphia campus, the program introduces rising high school juniors and seniors to the foundations of medical practice through hands-on simulations and engagement with clinical faculty. The 2026 session runs from June 28 to July 24.

Participants follow a schedule modeled after first-year medical school curriculum, blending morning lectures with afternoon practical sessions. Students gain exposure to core techniques, including CPR, suturing, and identifying heart and lung sounds. The program utilizes the Jordan Medical Education Center for simulations in pathology, microbiology, and anatomy, and includes live or recorded surgical demonstrations under clinician supervision.
As a fully residential experience, students live in University of Pennsylvania residence halls. The 2026 program fee is $10,495, which covers housing, instruction, and 18 out of 21 meals per week. A $1,500 non-refundable deposit is required upon acceptance to secure a placement.

Admission is highly competitive and restricted to students entering 11th or 12th grade who have completed a high school biology course and maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA. The application requires an online form, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation (one must be from a STEM teacher). The application deadline for the 2026 cycle is February 26, 2026, with decisions released by late March. The program provides an immersive preview of medical careers, helping students with premed interests develop foundational skills within a top tier medical setting.