The Stanford Summer Humanities Institute (SHI) is a prestigious three-week residential program designed for rising high school juniors and seniors passionate about the humanities. Hosted by Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies, SHI offers students an immersive experience in college-level seminars led by Stanford faculty, focusing on critical thinking, analytical writing, and engaging discussions in subjects like philosophy, literature, history, and the arts.
Key Dates for 2025
- Application Deadline: Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM Pacific Time
- Notification Date: Mid-April 2025
- Program Sessions: SHI typically offers multiple sessions during the summer, each spanning three weeks. Specific session dates for 2025 will be announced on the official website.
Program Overview
- Eligibility: Students currently in grades 10 or 11 at the time of application submission. Participants must be under 18 years old during the program.
- Course Selection: Applicants can rank up to four course preferences. If admitted, students are placed into one course based on their interests and the admissions committee's assessment.
- Curriculum: Courses delve into significant humanities topics, encouraging students to explore complex ideas and develop their analytical skills.
- Daily Schedule: Weekdays typically include morning lectures by Stanford professors, followed by afternoon discussions led by graduate students.
Tuition and Financial Aid
- Tuition: $8,575, covering housing in Stanford residence halls, daily meals, course materials, and field trip expenses.
- Financial Aid: Need-based financial aid is available for both domestic and international applicants. Applying for financial aid does not affect the admissions decision.
Preparation Tips
Recommended Reading:
- How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster
- The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White
- A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
- The Republic by Plato
- The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
Online Resources:
- Khan Academy: Offers courses in literature, history, and philosophy.
- Coursera: Provides college-level courses in various humanities subjects.
- Stanford Online: Features lectures and materials from Stanford courses.
Application Tips:
- Personal Statement: Clearly articulate your interest in the humanities and what you hope to gain from the SHI experience.
- Work Sample: Submit a piece that showcases your analytical and writing skills, preferably related to humanities subjects.
- Recommendations: Choose teachers who can speak to your intellectual curiosity and dedication to humanities studies.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the Stanford Summer Humanities Institute's official website. A complete application includes:
- Online application form
- Personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- Teacher recommendations
- Work sample
- Application fee (waivers available for eligible students)
For more detailed information and to access the application portal, visit the Stanford Summer Humanities Institute Admissions Page.
Participating in the Stanford Summer Humanities Institute offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with humanities disciplines, learn from esteemed faculty, and connect with like-minded peers. It's an excellent stepping stone for students aspiring to pursue humanities studies at the collegiate level.
