Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)
Applications are now closed. Please check back in November 2023 for the Summer 2024 application.
BOSS is a two-week, residential program held on Penn State's University Park campus for high school juniors interested in pursuing a business education in college. It’s an opportunity for these students to take college prep and business fundamentals courses taught by Penn State faculty. This is a sample schedule of what the two weeks would entail.
To Apply
Complete the online application and you will receive a link to upload your essay. Additional supporting materials can be emailed to diversity@smeal.psu.edu.
- Your Personal Statement/Information
Write a one or two-page essay that answers the following questions:
- Why do you want to attend BOSS and what do you hope to gain from the experience?
- Discuss other academic or educational programs in which you have participated.
- Discuss your academic awards or honors and what courses you will take as a senior.
- High school transcript
Ask your school counseling office to send your high school transcripts from grade nine through the most recent marking period. - Recent standardized achievement test scores
Ask your school counseling office to send your most recent standardized achievement test scores (SAT, PSAT, NEDT, if taken; otherwise, another achievement test administered by your school).
If you have not taken a standardized test and your school does not administer another standardized test, please have your school guidance counselor contact our office. - Letter of Recommendation
You need to obtain one letter of recommendation from a high school teacher. The teacher should comment on your academic achievements, potential, and ability to contribute to and benefit from BOSS. The letter may be included in application - Scholarship statement of financial need by guardian (if applicable)
Some scholarships are available for students with financial need. To be considered for a scholarship to attend the BOSS program, enclose a statement written by your parent/guardian explaining your family's financial situation.
What are the Program Fees?
A $50.00 registration fee is required only if you are accepted. Please do NOT send the $50.00 registration fee along with your application. Only if you are accepted will you have to pay the registration fee, which is non-refundable. Parents/guardians are responsible for getting their student to and from the University Park campus. There are no other fees associated with this program.
Acceptance Letter
An acceptance letter will be emailed to you once a decision has been made.
Mail Application Material to:
Diversity Enhancement Programs
Smeal College of Business
The Pennsylvania State University
Attention: BOSS Program
204 Business Building
University Park, PA 16802
Contact Information
Phone: 814-865-0938
Email: diversity@smeal.psu.edu