The Best Math Camps that You Should Aim for in High School
For high school students passionate about mathematics, summer math camps are more than just an academic escape—they're launchpads for intellectual growth, friendships with like-minded peers, and potential pathways to elite universities or international competitions. Among the many programs available, a few stand out for their prestige, rigor, and transformative impact. Below are the most respected math summer programs in the United States and what makes each unique.
One of the most selective and prestigious programs is the Math Olympiad Summer Program (MOSP). This camp isn’t open through a typical application—it’s invitation-only, based on performance in a sequence of math contests: the AMC 10/12, the AIME, and finally, the USAJMO or USAMO. From there, top scorers are invited to MOSP, where they train intensively for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). About 60 students nationwide attend each year. It's entirely free and doesn’t require essays or teacher recommendations—just pure problem-solving excellence. If you qualify, attending is an absolute must.
For students seeking an academically rigorous and immersive experience in mathematics, PROMYS (Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists) at Boston University is a top-tier option. Taking place over six weeks in the summer, PROMYS challenges students to approach mathematics from a research perspective, emphasizing depth over breadth. Number theory is a primary focus, and students spend time independently exploring complex problems under the guidance of experienced mentors. The program costs $2,500, but generous financial aid is available, and international students are welcome.
Another prestigious program is the Ross Mathematics Program, traditionally held at Ohio State University. Known for its motto, “Think deeply of simple things,” Ross encourages students to explore fundamental mathematical ideas through intensive problem sets and group work. The curriculum, like PROMYS, is rooted in number theory and mathematical proofs, aiming to develop a student's capacity for rigorous thought. The program runs for six weeks and costs $1,500, with financial aid options and availability for international participants.
At the West Coast, SUMaC (Stanford University Math Camp) offers students the chance to study higher-level math in a university setting. The camp provides two three-week sessions focused on advanced topics like combinatorics, abstract algebra, and modern applications of mathematics. SUMaC is ideal for students looking to explore math beyond what’s typically available in high school. The tuition is $3,250, but like the other programs listed, SUMaC offers need-based financial aid and accepts international students.
Each of these programs is highly selective and academically demanding, attracting some of the brightest young mathematical minds from across the globe. What sets them apart isn't just the difficulty of their content, but the culture they create: environments where curiosity, persistence, and creative thinking are celebrated. Whether you're preparing for a future in theoretical math, computer science, or engineering, attending one of these math camps could be one of the most rewarding academic decisions you make in high school.
If you’re a motivated student with a strong interest in mathematics, exploring these camps is well worth your time. The experiences and friendships you gain—and the mental muscles you build—will stay with you for years to come