Summer is here, which could mean wearing less and going out more. However, for some, it means doubling down on learning and growth. And who doesn’t want a little elevation alongside an epic cookout?

Depending on where a person is on their academic journey, several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offer courses to prepare students to be college — and university — ready or to advance their current collegiate status or expertise.

Below is a list of schools and programs that offer summer programs for little to no cost. While these programs have been previously noted as free, interested applicants should check with the school’s financial aid office or website for details regarding courses and programs.

Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View, TX)

Prairie View offers a bridge program for incoming first-year students and students 17 and under. Many of the programs are free or minimally expensive. The school also provides youth and teen summer camps for various interests, including sports, STEM, and college and career readiness.

Fayetteville State University (Fayetteville, NC)

A program designed specifically for current and returning students, Fayetteville State’s 30-60-90 Summer School Scholarship is in place to help students accelerate their college careers or get back on track. For undergraduates, the program includes up to two courses (or up to 7 credit hours), book rentals, associated student fees, and housing and meals.

North Carolina A&T University (Greensboro, NC)

With federal funds originally designated through COVID-19 higher education relief as part of the $2.2 trillion CARES Act of 2020 (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), in-state students were able to take up to two classes per summer for free. Also out-of-state students could take one class per summer. NCAT’s program was still in effect during the summer of 2022, when all North Carolina-based HBCUs offered free summer courses, but check with the website to verify current offerings.

Jackson State University (Jackson, MS)

North Carolina schools were not the only institutions utilizing federal funds for free summer programs. JSU in Jackson, MS, offered its students free tuition for summer courses as well. Interested individuals should check with the HBCU to determine whether the program is ongoing.

Additional HBCUs With Summer Programs

Several other HBCUs across the United States offer summer programs at low costs. Some also have scholarship funds that students can earn to cover the costs of summer classes. Additionally, these summer programs are not restricted to current college students or those enrolled in specific programs. The courses are also open to high school students and others seeking further academic development.

The following HBCUs offer programs that meet the criteria mentioned above:

Howard University (Washington, DC)

Spelman College (Atlanta, GA)

Morehouse College (Atlanta, GA)

Hampton University (Hampton, VA)

Florida A&M University (Tallahassee, FL)

Xavier University of Louisiana (New Orleans, LA)

Tuskegee University (Tuskegee, AL)

Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, GA)

While this list highlights HBCUs that are known to offer free or low-cost summer programs, it’s important to verify details directly with the schools. Contact their financial aid offices or visit their websites to learn about specific scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Some grant-funded programs or partnerships may offer free summer courses, so explore those options as well.