Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question that's not answered below? Contact us!
Requesting Information
What happens when a student submits an inquiry to Smith College Summer Programs?
When you submit the inquiry form, you will receive a confirmation email, and we will mail a Smith Summer Programs brochure to the address you've provided.
Applying
Who can attend?
High school girls who are rising freshmen to rising seniors.
Is this program only for high school girls?
Yes.
When should I apply?
Please apply as soon as possible. It is best to apply before April 1; you may call or write us if you have any questions regarding application deadlines.
I am an international student. May I apply?
Yes!
Is there an application fee?
Yes, the application fee is $35, payable by check.
How much financial aid do you offer?
Financial aid awards are based solely on financial need and are determined on a case-by-case basis.
When will I know if I am accepted?
In general, we review complete applications and respond to you within a few weeks. Please feel free to contact our office to ensure that your application is complete.
Academics
How much subject background do I need?
The critical factor in attending a summer program at Smith is that the student is motivated and interested in learning about the subject. There is a place for everybody—from the beginner to the very advanced.
Will I receive credit for summer programs?
No—and you don't get grades, either. Students learn more in an environment where there are no pressures; they learn because they are interested. At the student's request, faculty will complete an evaluation for each student.
Do we have homework?
In general, no—with the exception of small reading assignments and preparation for final projects.
Do we have tests?
No; no tests are given in any classes.
What to Bring
What should I bring?
Some programs may have specific requirements, but all students should bring the following:
- Sheets for a twin bed, pillows, towel and a fan (the rooms are not air-conditioned, so a fan is highly recommended)
- Your laptop, if you wish; the Smith campus is entirely wireless
- Pocket money for extras (see below)
- Quarters for laundry
Should I bring money?
Yes. All of your meals and transportation are taken care of, but if you want an extra treat, souvenir or other entertainment, you will need pocket money. Students should not bring more than $100 in cash.
Can I bring my car?
No, students are not allowed to bring cars.
Living at Smith
Will I have a roommate?
Yes! It is possible that you will room with another student from across the country or the world. We also mix students from other programs, so if you are participating in The Young Women's Writing Workshop, you may room with a student from Sustainability and Regeneration.
Can I request a roommate?
Yes, we will do our best to honor requests as long as both students make the same request.
I live near Smith—may I commute?
Smith summer programs are residential, and there are no commuters. Living away from home with your friends in the program is a great learning experience (plus it is lots of fun). We don't want you to miss out on this by going home after classes.
What if I get homesick?
We expect that some participants will feel homesick. When you arrive at Smith on that first Sunday, you'll see right away that our staff is prepared to help you. We'll greet you, assist you in settling into your room, give you a tour of the campus, sit with you over dinner in the house dining room and introduce you to lots of new friends. The next morning, we will escort you to your first class, and you'll be on your way! Most important, the summer program staff will be there to listen at any time.
Can friends and relatives come visit me while I am at Smith?
Except for emergencies, we have a strict no-visitors policy. Family members and friends are welcome to come for the final days of the program to hear student presentations and attend the final luncheon.
What do students do besides attend classes?
In your free time you can use all of the campus facilities (sports and fitness, the museum, libraries, gardens, etc.), and go on field trips (music, theater, canopy zip lining!) for afternoons, evenings and weekends. There is always an organized activity to join—or you can spend time with your friends from the program. Each program will plan some of its own activities outside of the classroom, but we also plan activities that all summer high school students will want to participate in.
