Bringing the World to Stanford

Stanford Pre-Collegiate International Institutes offers an exciting opportunity for schools and organizations from around the world to bring academically talented high school students to Stanford University for an engaging educational and multi-cultural experience.

The Program

Motivated students who attend the Stanford Pre- Collegiate International Institutes will be intellectually challenged and will develop skills in problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. The style of instruction is designed to foster a passion for intellectual pursuit and allows students to engage in a transformational educational experience.

Students have the opportunity to interact with peers from around the world for a culturally enriching experience. Past participants include groups from India, Japan, Kazakhstan, Chile, Peru, Turkey, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Taiwan and the Navajo Nation.

More Than Just a Summer Program

Motivated pre-college students who attend the Stanford Pre-Collegiate International Institutes will be intellectually challenged, and they will develop skills in problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and innovation. The program helps to foster a passion for intellectual pursuit. The International Institutes provide an American college-life experience and helps students understand the admissions process for U.S. colleges and universities.

One of the highlights of the program is the opportunity for students to interact with other students from around the world and learn about their cultures. Each student will also have the chance to share information about their home country and culture through various organized activities.

Explore our website and see why the International Institutes are different than other summer programs:

Go Beyond the Classroom

The academic program exposes students to university-level content and teaching style in a classroom that fosters communication, innovation, and creativity. Courses, labs, and workshops draw on a range of subjects taught in the Stanford schools of Humanities and Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Business.

Customized Schedule & Academic Program

The International Institutes will work closely with select organizations to understand the interests and ability level of the students in their group. Based on this information, International Institutes staff will create a customized schedule, with an academic program that includes advanced content and skills development. Academic subjects can range from sciences and engineering to writing and humanities, and themes may include creativity, leadership, design thinking, problem solving, and communication.

Selection & Eligibility

Students are selected by participating schools and organizations for:

  • ● Academic talent
  • ● Motivation for learning
  • ● English proficiency
  • ● Maturity level (target age range is 14–17)

Key Opportunities

Engage in Learning

Participate in interactive workshops led by expert instructors with a passion for teaching.

Explore a Place of Innovation

Become immersed in the heart of Stanford and explore Silicon Valley and the Bay Area.

Make Friends from Around the World

Meet peers from different countries and join them in fun social activities.

Experience American College Life

Engage in the Stanford experience and learn about the U.S. college admission process.