[High School 🎓] • [Entrepreneurship 🚀] • [Nurture 🌱] • [Insights 📊]

Gifted and talented students don’t have to wait until college to dive into business. Today’s best universities and programs offer online courses where you can learn leadership, entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing—all from home. Some programs even offer college credit and the chance to launch real startups!

We've ranked the 20 top online business programs for high school students based on prestige, opportunity, and value. Whether you're aiming for Wall Street, Silicon Valley, or your own venture, there’s a program here for you.

1. Wharton Global Youth Program: Essentials of Leadership

The Wharton Global Youth Program: Essentials of Leadership gives high school students a powerful head start in business leadership. Over two weeks, students participate in lectures, group projects, business simulations, and global teamwork challenges. They sharpen their decision-making, leadership, and collaboration skills under the guidance of Wharton professors and entrepreneurs. The experience also includes case competitions and real-world scenarios designed to build confidence, communication abilities, and business intuition—preparing you for future college and career success.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (University of Pennsylvania – Wharton School)
Cost/Stipend: $4,099
Application Deadline: May 1
Program Dates: Session 1: June 16–27 | Session 2: July 7–18
Eligibility: Rising seniors and recent high school graduates

2. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes

The Stanford Pre-Collegiate Summer Institutes offer high school students an opportunity to study business fundamentals through a rigorous online academic program. Participants engage in small class sizes, focusing on entrepreneurship, leadership, product development, and innovation. Taught by Stanford instructors, the courses emphasize hands-on learning, critical thinking, and collaboration with academically motivated peers. It’s an ideal choice for students interested in building real-world business skills in a selective, university-level environment.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies)
Cost/Stipend: $3,080 (+$65 application fee)
Application Deadline: March 20, 2025
Program Dates: Session 1: June 16–27, 2025 | Session 2: July 7–18, 2025
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders (students completing Grades 8–11)

3. Harvard Undergraduate Ventures-TECH Summer Program (HUVTSP)

The Harvard Undergraduate Ventures-TECH Summer Program (HUVTSP) is an elite online innovation academy for high school students. Hosted by the Technology & Entrepreneurship Center at Harvard (TECH), HUVTSP offers students internships at VC-backed startups, mentorship from distinguished founders and investors, and daily workshops taught by industry experts. Over six weeks, students work on real-world projects, learn critical business and innovation skills, and receive mentorship from CEOs, venture capitalists, and Harvard faculty. It's a rare opportunity to experience entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology at the highest level—before college even begins.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Harvard University)
Cost/Stipend: $4,750 (+$35 application fee)
Application Deadline: April 14, 2025
Program Dates: Session 1: Jun 9—Jul 18 | Session 2: Jul 7—Aug 15
Eligibility: High school students (preferably rising juniors and seniors)

4. Babson Summer Study for High School Students

Babson College, ranked #1 for entrepreneurship, offers Summer Study for High School Students. This program guides high school students to turn their ideas into reality. Students work through Babson’s Entrepreneurial Thought & Action® framework while solving global challenges tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Intense yet rewarding, the program grants 4 college credits and opportunities to network with peers and industry leaders.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Babson College)
Cost/Stipend: $6,295 (+$95 application fee)
Application Deadline: March 14
Program Dates: July 7–28, 2025
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors

5. Columbia University Online Summer Immersion

The Columbia University Online Summer Immersion program lets high school students study business subjects like entrepreneurship, marketing, and finance through interactive, college-level courses. Students work on real-world projects, participate in lively discussions, and gain insights into business strategy and innovation. With live online classes taught by Columbia faculty and opportunities to collaborate globally, this program is a great way for students to challenge themselves academically without leaving home.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Columbia University)
Cost/Stipend: $2,815–$3,965 per course
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Program Dates: July 7–18 | July 21–Aug 1 | Aug 11–15
Eligibility: Grades 9–11

6. Cornell Pre-College Online

The Cornell Pre-College Online program offers gifted students the chance to earn real college credits while exploring business management, global strategy, and entrepreneurship. Courses such as "Introduction to Business Management" and "Global Business Strategy" teach students key leadership and analytical skills. With experienced Cornell faculty and official transcripts upon completion, students get a true Ivy League academic experience—all from home.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Cornell University)
Cost/Stipend: $1,840 per credit
Application Deadline: Varies by session
Program Dates: June–August 2025
Eligibility: Grades 11–12

7. Harvard Secondary School Program Online

The Harvard Secondary School Program Online lets high school students take college-level business courses from anywhere. Taught by Harvard instructors, classes include Introduction to Economics, Principles of Finance, and Leadership in Business. Students earn college credit while getting a head start on academics. Designed for motivated learners, the program blends rigorous coursework with the flexibility of online learning.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Harvard University)
Cost/Stipend: $4,050 (4 credits) or $7,900 (8 credits) (financial aid available)
Application Deadline: May 2025 (exact date TBA)
Program Dates: Mid-June – Early August 2025 (7 weeks)
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older by June 22, 2025

8. Yale Online Course: Capitalism—Success, Crisis, and Reform

The Yale Online Course: Capitalism—Success, Crisis, and Reform is a self-paced program that explores capitalism’s history, strengths, and challenges. Students examine major financial crises, economic inequality, and systemic risks to global markets. It’s an excellent fit for gifted students interested in economics, finance, public policy, or global development—offering Ivy League depth and flexibility, entirely free.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Self-paced, Yale University)
Cost/Stipend: Free
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Anytime
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors

9. BerkeleyX Entrepreneurship for All (Part I)

The BerkeleyX Entrepreneurship for All (Part I) course was created by UC Berkeley faculty and Silicon Valley insiders to help students think like real entrepreneurs. Through practical assignments, business model development, and startup pitch preparation, this self-paced course delivers strong foundational skills in entrepreneurship. It’s a flexible and accessible addition to any aspiring founder’s resume.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Self-paced, UC Berkeley)
Cost/Stipend: Free (Certificate optional for a fee)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Self-paced (6 weeks, ~4–7 hours/week)
Eligibility: All high school students

10. Rice University Pre-College Business Programs

The Rice University Pre-College Business Programs offer high school students a deep dive into entrepreneurship, innovation, and fintech. Through hands-on learning, real-world case studies, and mentorship from Rice faculty, students develop skills in business strategy, financial decision-making, and critical thinking. The flexible, fully online format makes it ideal for college-bound students, and participants earn a Certificate of Completion from Rice University.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Rice University)
Cost/Stipend: $1,495 per course
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions
Program Dates: Multiple offerings throughout the year
Eligibility: High school students (Grades 9–12)

11. Wake Forest Business Strategy & Innovation

The Wake Forest Business Strategy & Innovation program takes students behind the scenes of companies like Netflix and Apple to understand how businesses drive innovation and gain competitive advantage. With simulations, strategic exercises, and mentorship from experienced professionals, this program is ideal for students interested in consulting, entrepreneurship, or corporate leadership.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Wake Forest University)
Cost/Stipend: $1,495 per course
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: 1, 2, or 4 week sessions year-round
Eligibility: For students ages 13+.

12. Seattle University Summer Business Institute (SBI)

The Seattle University Summer Business Institute (SBI) is a tuition-free program where students from underserved communities explore business fundamentals, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Students learn about marketing, finance, and strategic planning through real-world projects and team-based business plan competitions. Guided by faculty and industry mentors, participants build skills in budgeting, pitching, and innovation. SBI’s focus on leadership, diversity, and impact makes it a powerful experience for future changemakers.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online and Seattle, WA
Cost/Stipend: Free ($50 registration deposit)
Application Deadline: Priority Deadline: April 25
Program Dates: July 19–25, 2025
Eligibility: Rising 9th–12th graders (priority given to underserved students)

13. USC Online Exploration: Business Courses

The USC Online Exploration: Business Courses program lets high school students build practical business skills in data analytics, entrepreneurship, and global business strategy. Through live lectures and interactive projects, students apply theory to real-world challenges. Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion from USC and finish the program ready to communicate confidently, solve problems creatively, and showcase new skills for college and beyond.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (University of Southern California)
Cost/Stipend: $1,990 per course (+$35 application fee)
Application Deadline: Varies by course
Program Dates: Multiple start dates between April and Aug 2025
Eligibility: At least 14 years old or older and enrolled in a high school or secondary program

14. Accelerated Business Program (University of Georgia, Terry College)

The Accelerated Business Program at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business is a two-day online experience that introduces students to core business principles through hands-on workshops, team challenges, and guest lectures. Students explore leadership, financial analysis, market research, and strategic planning, gaining a fast, impactful overview of real-world business careers—perfect for students who want maximum value in minimal time.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (University of Georgia)
Cost/Stipend: $25
Application Deadline: July 10, 2025
Program Dates: July 17–18, 2025
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors

15. Brown Pre-College—Leadership in Changing Business: Social Entrepreneurship

The Brown Pre-College—Leadership in Changing Business: Social Entrepreneurship course teaches students how to use business to drive social change. Through case studies, collaborative projects, and a capstone pitch competition, students learn to identify social challenges, design sustainable solutions, and strengthen leadership, critical thinking, and innovation skills. It’s an ideal program for students passionate about entrepreneurship, social justice, and impact-driven leadership.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Brown University)
Cost/Stipend: $5,528 (4 weeks)
Application Deadline: May 9, 2025
Program Dates: June 23—July 18, 2025
Eligibility: High school students (Grades 9–12)

16. UC Merced Summer Session Discount Program

The UC Merced Summer Session Discount Program allows high school students to take university-level business courses, such as business law, business ethics, business communication, and economics, at a reduced cost. With flexible online options and UC college credit, it’s an affordable and academically rigorous way to maximize academic value and strengthen a college transcript.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online and UC Merced, CA
Cost/Stipend: $210 per unit (e.g., $840 for a four-unit course)
Application Deadline: Rolling
Program Dates: Varies by course (June–August 2025)
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors

17. PNNL High School Business Internship

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) High School Business Internship offers students a unique chance to work at the nation's leading research labs. While still attending school, interns support business operations, communications, financial analysis, and project coordination. With flexible hours and mentorship from industry professionals, students gain real-world experience and see firsthand how business fuels innovation in science and technology.

Quick Facts:
Location: Various PNNL locations and virtual
Cost/Stipend: Paid internship (amount unspecified)
Application Deadline: February
Program Dates: August 2025–May 2026 (School Year Internship)
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors

18. UCLA Introduction to Investments Summer Institute

The UCLA Introduction to Investments Summer Institute provides high school students with a foundational understanding of financial markets, asset classes, portfolio management, and investment strategies. Through live online sessions, students explore stocks, bonds, mutual funds, asset allocation, and risk analysis—building practical skills for future business, finance, and economics careers. Led by UCLA faculty, the program blends classroom learning with practical insights into investing and real-world financial decisions.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (UCLA Summer Sessions)
Cost/Stipend: $2,985
Application Deadline: June 20, 2025
Program Dates: June 23—July 11, 2025
Eligibility: 9th–12th grades

19. Georgetown Pre-College Online Business Programs

The Georgetown Pre-College Online Business Programs offer high school students a flexible, self-paced introduction to fields like entrepreneurship, investing, and marketing. Designed by Georgetown University faculty, the courses combine dynamic video lessons, mentorship, and a final capstone project to help students deepen their business skills. Students can choose enrichment courses or college-credit options and complete their work online, on their own schedule. Each course concludes with a Certificate of Completion from Georgetown University, making it a valuable addition to future college applications.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (Georgetown University)
Cost/Stipend: $1,795 (enrichment courses) or $3,995 (college credit courses)
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions (year-round)
Program Dates: Various start dates year-round (self-paced, flexible)
Eligibility: Students aged 13 and up

20. UChicago Career Insight: Business and Entrepreneurship

The Career Insight: Business and Entrepreneurship program at the University of Chicago gives high school students a hands-on introduction to the world of business and startups. Over three weeks, students dive into topics like market research, branding, operations, and financial modeling, all while learning how to turn real ideas into viable ventures. The course blends classroom learning with team-based projects, all leading up to a final pitch. Whether a student is interested in launching a startup or just curious about how business works, this program offers a true preview of college academics in a top-tier setting.

Quick Facts:
Location: Online (University of Chicago)
Cost/Stipend: $4,900
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025 (priority); final deadline in May
Program Dates: July 7–25, 2025 (3 weeks)
Eligibility: Rising 10th–12th graders; strong academic record required

Final Thoughts

Business is a language, and gifted students can start speaking it fluently before college even begins.

These 20 top online business programs offer high school students a chance to sharpen leadership, innovation, and strategy skills—wherever they are in the world.

Start building your future today, and bring your ideas to life.