SUMMER CAMPS
Youth Programs
ACADEMY
Overnight Camp
ACADEMY, now in its fourth decade, offers a week-long summer camp designed for academically gifted and highly motivated students with a passion for learning. The program includes a variety of classes, cultural events, and recreational activities, providing a platform for intellectually curious students to connect with peers and nurture their love for learning.
Eligibility Criteria for ACADEMY Applicants:
- Completed 5th – 10th grade
- Maintain a GPA of 3.4 or higher
- Display above-average intelligence, leadership skills, special talents, exceptional abilities in visual and performing arts, and/or unique, creative, or critical thinking skills
Camp Schedule & Sessions
Camp Schedule and Information
ACADEMY is held on the Southern Oregon University campus. The 2027 camp dates will be posted in Fall 2026.
Sessions
- 5th and 6th graders – Session 1
- 7th and 8th graders – Session 2
- 9th and 10th graders – Session 3
- All sessions run simultaneously and last for one week.
- 11th and 12th graders can apply to become Junior Counselors. Junior Counselors assist college-aged Senior Counselors with Session 1 and 2 campers.
Tuition & Cancellation Policy
Tuition
The ACADEMY program is self-supported and receives funding from student tuition, donations, and grants. For 2026, the weekly camper tuition is set at $900 (a discount of $60 from previous years), while the Junior Counselor tuition is $675. 2027 camp costs will be published in Fall 2026.
There is a $25 discount for returning students and a $25 sibling discount. For siblings, the first sibling pays the regular price, and subsequent siblings receive a $25 discount.
All students can apply for ACADEMY tuition assistance based on their demonstrated financial need. To request tuition assistance, students should include it in their online application. Students and their families will be notified about tuition assistance in early June if they are awarded funds.
Tuition payment is required only after acceptance to ACADEMY, and payment details are provided in the acceptance notifications.
Cancellation Policy
Leaving an overnight camp program is discouraged. It is important that students make a commitment to fully participate. Schedule outside appointments, music lessons, athletic practices, and tryouts for times outside of the week of camp. We cannot credit, refund, or prorate tuition for any absences, no-shows or days missed due to illness or injury.
The following cancellation and refund policy applies to all cancellations, regardless of reason:
- Cancellation of camp attendance a week or more before camp begins, families can receive a full refund, minus the $50 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations less than one week before camp begins, families receive a 50% refund, minus the $50 cancellation fee.
- Cancellation after the start date will not be refunded, nor will account credits be issued. Additionally, students who no-show, or withdraw from camp will not receive a refund or account credit.
What is the cancellation fee?
The $50 cancellation fee is applied to any cancellation, made four (4) weeks or less, prior to the start of camp, and initiated by the student or family.
Community Groups and Counselors
Community Groups and Counselors
Students are placed in co-gender community groups consisting of 10-12 students. The Community Group Counselor assigned to your student will play a significant role in their experience. These counselors are college students with a background in youth programs and counseling. Furthermore, the counselors are chosen for their leadership abilities and passion for engaging with young individuals. Parents have the chance to meet with their student’s counselor during check-in to discuss any queries, share information, and address concerns.
Roommate Requests
Roommate Requests
One of the highlights of ACADEMY is the opportunity for students to form new and enduring friendships during their time on campus. While we do accommodate roommate requests, we also encourage students to branch out and meet new peers. If your child would like to request a specific roommate, they can do so through a designated section in the post-acceptance forms. It’s essential for both students to indicate their roommate preference on their applications for the request to be considered. Please note that requests made by only one student may not be fulfilled.
Residential Halls
Residential Halls
- ACADEMY students reside on the Southern Oregon University campus.
- Students are accommodated in rooms on the same floor as a Senior Counselor.
- Students are housed in single-gender halls.
- If you require alternative living arrangements, please specify in your application or contact our office for further assistance.
Meals & Dietary Accommodations
Meals & Dietary Accommodations
- All meals will be provided at The Hawk, located within the residential Raider Village on the SOU campus.
- Students can choose from a diverse selection of nutritious and balanced meals.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are regularly offered.
- Special arrangements can be made for students with food allergies or sensitivities.
- Dietary restrictions and allergies should be documented as part of the student paperwork upon acceptance.
Letter of Recommendation
The camp letter of recommendation can be accessed via the PDFs below:
NEW: Session 3 for 9th & 10th Graders
Ready to step into high school as a leader?
ACADEMY Session 3 is a week-long overnight experience designed specifically for students in 9th and 10th grade, whether you’ve attended ACADEMY before or not. We’ve combined the best of leadership development and personal visioning with practical college and career readiness. Through hands-on classes, exciting off-campus trips, and deep reflection circles, you’ll gain the confidence, creativity, and purpose you need for your next chapter. It’s an immersive camp experience that fuels your future planning in a high-energy, fun environment.
Counselors, Head Residents, and Course Instructors
ACADEMY would not be possible without the support of our counselors and program staff. We encourage individuals to apply to our open positions:
- Junior Counselors: current high school juniors and seniors, $675 program fee (2026 rates)
- Senior Counselors: current college students, paid position
- Head Residents: directors of camp, paid position
- Instructors: classroom teachers; paid position
