Harvard University’s Center for Hellenic Studies (CHS) offers an exciting opportunity for high school students from the DMV area who are interested in exploring the humanities through the study of Greco-Roman antiquity. Accepted students will take an introductory course (non-credit) to the Ancient Greek language, explore different aspects of classical studies in the twenty-first century, and take part in professional development workshops.
The Scholars-in-Training Summer Program will be held in person at the CHS in Washington, DC from June 29, 2026 to August 7, 2026. Accepted students will commute to the CHS campus in NW DC (Embassy Row) Monday through Friday. This six-week program is free of charge for accepted students. Participants will receive a stipend ($3000 USD) to compensate for loss of summer income as well as support for commuter costs. They will also receive a daily lunch.
This program is run jointly with Harvard University’s Department of the Classics. In previous years, the program was held in Cambridge, MA, but as of summer 2026 it will be held in Washington, DC.
Applications will become available in mid-November. Applications will be due by March 13.
Daily Activities
The program will run Monday–Friday from approximately 10:00 to 4:00 including a one-hour lunch break (lunch provided). During these hours, students will take part in three courses/workshops.
- Ancient Greek Language Instruction: An intensive course on the Ancient Greek language led by two graduate student instructors from Harvard University (4 hours, Monday through Friday)
- Classics in the Twenty-First Century Workshop: A weekly seminar-style workshop exploring the diverse methodologies, ideas, and areas of study that make up the field of classics (75 minutes, Tuesdays)
- Professional Development Workshop: A weekly workshop focused on developing skills for academic writing and research as well as a site to explore a variety of professional possibilities available to students interested in classics (75 minutes, Thursdays)
Eligibility Requirements
All students must
- be at least 16 years old by June 28, 2026;
- be enrolled full-time in an accredited public or private high school in the United States;
- be in good academic standing;
- be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or be granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status. International citizens studying in the United States with an F-1 Visa are not eligible.
How to Apply
Applications will be made available in mid-November.
With their applications, students will be asked to provide a resume, contact information of two referees whom the selection committee may contact to provide a reference on your behalf, and a copy (scanned) of transcript/report card from institution currently attending or last attended (unofficial is acceptable). See this sample resume template.
Applications will be due on March 13. Please note that applicants will be notified of our decision by March 27, 2026.
Learn More
Prospective applicants and colleagues with questions about this program are welcome to contact classics_sit@fas.harvard.edu.