A tuition-free, summer program for rural and small-town students

Young Scholars Program | July 12 - 26, 2026


Apply to Western Reserve Academy's Young Scholars Program today!
Young Scholars Program Application

Are you an educator who knows an academic star? We'd love to meet them!
Young Scholars Program Recommendation Form

Download more information!
Young Scholars Program Brochure

 

WRA’s Young Scholars Program is a fully-funded, interdisciplinary, intensive two-week residential experience designed to provide academic opportunities beyond those available at most Ohio middle schools. The program seeks up to twenty rising seventh, eighth and ninth-grade students from smaller communities throughout Ohio who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability and genuine intellectual curiosity across a broad range of academic areas.

Through a generous gift, the Young Scholars Program is offered free of charge.Admission is competitive, and the comprehensive program – valued at nearly $3,000 – includes all class materials, trips and activities, as well as room and board.

Last year’s program was entitled “Carry Me Home: The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s.” Using literature, media resources and field trips to various related local and regional points of interest, students gained a far greater appreciation of the era’s profound impact on American society. This summer, “A Nation at Play: Athletics and the American Story,” students will dive into the intersection of sports in American culture and society, exploring this theme using the combined academic lenses of math, science, history, literature, music and cinematic arts. As has been the case for the past several summers, one major goal of the program will be to have students research and write their own original theatrical production incorporating themes learned throughout the two weeks.

Over the past few years, Young Scholars have enjoyed trips to theater performances, lakes and parks, museums, landmarks, baseball games and more. The WRA campus and its facilities allow for indoor/outdoor athletic activities, including swimming and the use of classroom technology. Additionally, a notebook computer is issued to each student for use during the program.

 

Stay tuned for Young Scholars Program Info Night coming in the weeks ahead!

This virtual Information Night will introduce Western Reserve Academy’s Young Scholars Program — an immersive, tuition-free summer enrichment experience for curious and motivated current sixth, seventh and eighth grade students.

This engaging webinar will be a great opportunity for families and educators to hear directly from WRA faculty and program staff as they share insights into the program’s hands-on academic offerings, inspiring mentorship and vibrant campus community. We will also cover the application process, key dates and what life is like during the program.

For me, YSP was truly life-changing, as it showed me the opportunities I was missing out on. Whether it be trips downtown for milkshakes, or watching movies with friends at night, the whole experience gave me a glimpse of what I’ve come to know and love as WRA.

Finn Frato-Sweeney - 2021

My time at YSP was impactful. There is a lot you find out about yourself when you are with new people in a new environment and that is what I am most grateful for.

Owen H. (YSP '21)

The Young Scholars Program impacted me greatly through the friends I made and the experiences we shared together. We grew close, sharing lots of laughs in museums, downtown Hudson and working on projects together.

Lilian K. (YSP '21)

My time at YSP was the best experience I have ever had. The program really expanded my view of learning and gave me better confidence to talk during class. This program also really got me ready for high school.

Mason Jasiunas - 2022 and 2023

Being able to be in a classroom environment where all of my peers were engaged and interested was so refreshing and something I hadn’t fully seen before. The group discussions were my favorite part.

Caroline West - 2023

One of my favorite things about YSP was the community aspect of it. We would always take fun trips, and I met almost 20 new and interesting people, each with their own background.

Kendel Barber - 2023 and 2024

While we often hear that YSP is “too good to be true,” this program is 100% free of charge for every single student.

For many years, we have accepted students from the same school. 

Absolutely! While only one is required for each applicant, we do not limit the number of recommendations one student may receive on their behalf.

We can almost guarantee that you will be sharing a room with a fellow Young Scholar. 

Please direct all questions to: 

WRA Community

Related Stories

More Stories