Summer 2027 is planned in the fall and winter of 2026 to 2027. Many selective summer programs, research and internship opportunities, and some jobs open applications months ahead, often with deadlines in winter or early spring. A sophomore or junior who sets a direction in November, researches in December and January and applies by February keeps the good options open, instead of finding in May that most deadlines have passed. Check every program’s own dates, because they vary.
Start with the purpose
- Explore an interest: a program, course or project in a field the student is curious about.
- Work: a paid job builds responsibility, references and money for later.
- Get ahead or catch up: a community college or summer school course, after checking how it will appear on the transcript and whether it counts for A to G in California.
- Serve: a sustained commitment to one organization rather than scattered hours.
- Rest: some unstructured time is part of a good summer, especially before junior or senior year.
Many good summers combine two or three of these. Our teen summer plan guide has a full framework.
A timeline from now to June
| When | Sophomores | Juniors |
|---|---|---|
| November | Talk about interests; list three possible directions | Same, plus how summer fits into college applications next fall |
| December | Research programs, jobs and classes; note each deadline | Research; note deadlines and any recommendations or essays needed |
| January | Ask teachers for recommendations early if a program needs them | Ask for recommendations; draft any essays |
| February | Submit applications with winter deadlines | Submit applications; register for any summer courses |
| March to April | Line up a job or volunteer role; plan a backup | Same; finalize a project plan if not admitted to a program |
| May | Set dates, transportation and a simple weekly routine | Same; leave room for college research and rest |
For sophomores
The summer before junior year is a good time to try things: a first job, a program in a new subject, or a small project. It does not have to be impressive. See our guide to the summer before junior year for what to do and what to skip.
For juniors
The summer before senior year is busy: work or a program, plus college research, essay drafting and, in California, an early start on the University of California application, which opens August 1. See the summer before senior year and the California senior year checklist.
Cost and access
- Many valuable summers cost little: a job, a library project, community college classes or volunteering.
- Ask about financial aid for any paid program before ruling it out.
- Be cautious with expensive programs that promise a college admission advantage; what a student does and learns matters more than a brand.
Keep the school year first
Summer planning should not cost fall grades. Put research and application tasks into the weekly planning routine in small pieces. If grades are already slipping, start with our 8 week plan for low grades.
Where a mentor helps
Summer planning rewards exactly the skills mentors build: setting a goal, breaking it into steps and meeting deadlines months away. A mentor helps a sophomore or junior turn vague interests into a short list, keep application tasks on the weekly plan and follow through, without crowding out schoolwork.
- Conversations that turn interests into concrete options.
- A deadline calendar kept up week to week.
- Accountability for recommendations, essays and applications.
- A summer routine plan so the time is used well.
Mentoring is not tutoring, test prep, therapy or admissions consulting, and no one can promise grades or outcomes. Learn more about mentoring for high school students and academic coaching for high school students. Blackburn Mentoring works one on one by video nationwide and in person in Los Angeles. Book a free 20 minute intro call to talk it through.
Related
- How to plan a productive summer for a teenager
- Summer before junior year
- Summer before senior year
- Teen job ideas
- Summer mentoring for teens
- Sophomore year of high school
Common questions
When should my teen start planning for summer 2027?
In the fall of 2026. Many programs and opportunities open applications months ahead, with deadlines often in winter or early spring; check each program’s dates.
Do colleges care what students do in the summer?
Colleges look at how students spend their time in general. A meaningful job, project or commitment can matter as much as a formal program.
Are expensive summer programs worth it?
Sometimes for the experience, but be cautious of programs that promise an admission advantage. Ask about financial aid before deciding.
Should my teen take a college class in the summer?
It can be a good fit. Check with the counselor how it will appear on the transcript and, in California, whether it counts toward A to G.
Is it okay for a teen to have some downtime?
Yes. Rest helps students start the next school year strong, especially before junior or senior year.
How can a mentor help with summer planning?
By helping the student choose options, keep a deadline calendar and follow through on applications while keeping up with school.
This guide is general information, not educational, medical or admissions advice. Each school sets its own policies; check with your school.
Get started
Want help turning this into a plan for your student? Call (888) 305 5422, email contact@blackburnmentoring.com or book a free intro call.
Booking for a son or daughter? You can book the call yourself. Free, by video, 20 minutes, with a member of our team. Weekdays 9 to 5 Pacific.