Barrett Summer Scholars Program Overview

Are you already thinking about what it would be like to be a college student now? The Barrett Summer Scholars Program is meant for motivated high school students, including those entering 9th grade, who want to experience college life before their senior year. It gives them a chance to take advanced courses, explore campus life, and connect with like-minded peers. 

Beyond a taste of college, Barrett Summer Scholars (BSS) helps younger students for future academic and career success. This overview will explain everything you need to know about the program including eligibility, program dates, and how to apply.

What is the Barrett Summer Scholars Program?

The Barrett Summer Scholars Program is an enriching academic experience that  gives students a brief experience of what life feels like as a college student. The program is held at Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University (ASU).

During the program students engage in challenging classes,  teamwork projects, and exciting campus activities. They also learn how to think critically and build friendships with peers with similar passions.

Curriculum Overview 

Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn at the BSS program: 

• Technology and Engineering: Computer science, information technology, and other engineering varieties.
• Research and Sciences: Biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and sociology.
• Arts and Humanities: Literature, history, philosophy, visual arts, performing arts, and cultural studies.
• Commerce and Business: Economics, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and management.
• Kinetics and Health: Health sciences, medicine, kinesiology, sports science, and wellness studies.

Is ASU Barrett Prestigious?

​Yes, Barrett, The Honors College at ASU, is one of the most prestigious honors colleges in the United States. Frank Bruni, a columnist for The New York Times, wrote that Barrett is “widely considered the gold standard” among honors institutions. This is because of its intellectually stimulating academic environment.

Although not publicly disclosed, the Barrett Summer Scholars Program acceptance rate is likely to be reasonably low. ASU says it is a “highly competitive program.” This reflects the program's high standards and the quality of students it attracts. 

Who is Eligible? 

Students with strong academic performance are welcome to apply for the Barrett Summer Scholars Program. The program is open to students preparing to enter the 9th through 12th grades during the Fall 2025 academic year. To qualify for the program, applicants must fulfill the following GPA requirements: 

• Rising 9th and 10th Graders: Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0
• Rising 11th and 12th Graders: Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.25

The selection process for BSS is holistic. This means that ASU will consider every part of an applicant's submission including academic achievements and students’ love of learning. In other words, you must be excited about the challenges of college-level coursework and activities.

Program Dates & Locations 

Arizona State University hosts the Barrett Summer Scholars Program on different campuses. Each grade level is assigned a distinct date and location. Here are the key dates for Barrett Summer Scholars 2025:

Important Deadlines

• Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
• Notification Date: Accepted students will be notified by April 11, 2025 

Program Costs 

The total cost for the Barrett Summer Scholars (BSS) program is $800. This covers your accommodations, dining, and all program materials. You are only required to pay the full amount after you've been accepted into the program and decide to attend.

This payment includes a $50 non-refundable registration fee.

Scholarships are available for students from low-income households or those facing significant financial hardship. To apply for scholarships, you must complete the Scholarship Application section when filling out your application.  ASU recommends that students seeking scholarships apply early because financial aid is limited.

Even if applicants receive scholarship awards, they must still pay the $50 non-refundable deposit.

How to Apply 

You can start the Barrett Summer Scholars application process by going to the official website and submitting your email. After gaining access to the application, prepare to upload these documents:

• Transcripts: Submit unofficial transcripts if you're in high school, or your most recent report card if you're a rising 9th grader.
• Letters of Recommendation: Provide two strong recommendations from teachers, mentors, or community leaders who know you well. 
• Household Income Information: Include this information to be considered for scholarship assistance.

Find out how to ask a teacher for a letter of recommendation.  

Take Your Learning Further with IRIS

The Barrett Summer Scholars program offers talented students a unique opportunity to experience university-level courses and develop the skills needed to tackle future academic challenges. However, it's not the only program that can prepare you for college and give you an advantage in the admissions progress for highly ranked universities. 

Another amazing opportunity is the Indigo Research Intensive Seasonal (IRIS) Program. 

This six-week online program provides research opportunities in various fields ranging from Genetics and AI, to Entrepreneurship and Neuroscience. You'll work hand in hand with professors and researchers from renowned universities to produce a publishable research paper. Learn more about the IRIS Program.