Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)
2026 BOSS will be held June 14-26, 2026
BOSS (Business Opportunities Summer Session) is a two-week, residential summer program held at Penn State’s University Park campus, only for high school juniors from the U.S. and Puerto Rico and interested in pursuing a business education in college.
The program offers:
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College preparation and business fundamentals courses taught by Penn State faculty
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A real college living experience, including:
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Staying in residence halls
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Eating in the campus dining commons
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Interacting with a diverse group of academically driven peers
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BOSS is designed to give students a firsthand look at college academics and life, especially within a business-focused setting.
This is a sample schedule of what the two weeks would entail.
To Apply
There is a new application process, and all this information below except your recommendation letter must be uploaded in your application before you are able to submit your application. We will only see completed applications.
Complete the online application.
1. Complete Online Application Form
Submit the full application online. You will not be able to submit it until all required documents are uploaded (except the letter of recommendation, which is submitted separately).
2. Personal Statement/Information (PDF, 1–2 pages)
Answer the following questions:
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Why do you want to attend BOSS and what do you hope to gain?
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What other academic or educational programs have you participated in?
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What academic awards or honors have you received?
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What courses will you take as a senior?
3. High School Transcript
Upload transcripts from:
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Grade 9 through your most recent marking period.
4. Standardized Achievement Test Scores
Report your most recent scores (SAT, PSAT, NEDT, etc.).
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If you haven't taken any and your school doesn't administer one, your guidance counselor must email:
Pauline Hough – pqh101@psu.edu
5. Letter of Recommendation
Required for your application to be accepted
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One letter from a teacher or guidance counselor
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Must be submitted directly by the recommender
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Letter should speak to:
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Your academic achievements
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Your potential
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Your ability to contribute to and benefit from BOSS
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Tip: Request this early to give your recommender enough time.
6. Program Fee ($250)
Only required after acceptance into the program.
Acceptance Letter
An acceptance letter will be emailed to you at the email you use in your application once a decision has been made.
Decision are made
Contact Information
Phone: 814-865-0938
Email: diversity@smeal.psu.edu