Commuter Overview

As part of Summer Session, high school students (ages 14-18) can take a summer class at UCSC! 

Our in-person commuter program mirrors the undergraduate experience, allowing students to select from a wide variety of courses and mix university study with access to campus resources like the library and fitness center. 

Students receive a UCSC ID Card which serves as their Metro bus pass, or they can purchase a parking pass and drive to campus. There is no on-campus housing available to high school students. 

All students attending in-person classes at UC Santa Cruz will need to comply with any current COVID-19 health and safety requirements.

In the Summer University, students will: 

  • Attend and earn a grade in an undergraduate class with current UCSC college students (courses are not created specifically for high school students - in some cases, you might be the only one in the class!)
  • Earn academic credit that can transfer to a future college or university (or back to high school)
  • Gain an understanding of research university culture and academic expectations
  • Have access to libraries, labs, fitness center, and everything the campus has to offer

Interested?

Explore the cost, courses, student stories, and FAQs. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Review our Student and Parent Checklist
  2. Submit High School Verification Form and Waivers
  3. RegisterEven if you took summer classes at UC Santa Cruz last year, all visiting students must register annually to enroll in classes
Questions about the High School Summer University? Email: highschoolsummer@ucsc.edu.