UM Summer Language Institute
Language and Culture Programs for High School Students
The University of Mississippi Summer Language Institute offers high school students the opportunity to study critical languages – Arabic or Chinese.
The program emphasizes linguistic and cultural skills for real-world applications and includes co-curricular activities that explore career and educational pathways, preparing them to compete for scholarships and selective programs after graduation.
Attracting high-achieving students nationwide, the program offers college credit and is supported by UM faculty and tutors.
Dates: June 26-July 25, 2025
Move-In: June 25, 2025
Arabic
The UM Arabic Language Flagship Program offers high school students a competitive, month-long intensive course for beginners, providing 6 college credits. Students gain language proficiency and cultural competency in Arabic, a critical language valued by employers worldwide.
Through immersive instruction and extracurricular activities, students rapidly improve reading, writing, and conversational skills, with a focus on real-world applications.
Chinese
The UM Summer Chinese Language Institute (formerly Mississippi StarTalk) has been teaching Chinese language and culture for 15 years. Students develop both conversational and written skills while engaging in cultural experiences. The program emphasizes practical skills like meeting new people, traveling, shopping, and studying current issues, with courses focused on themes such as life in China, the Silk Road, and Chinese traditions.
Students are placed in beginner, advanced beginner, or intermediate courses based on their level.Admissions
The UM Summer Language Institutes are competitive programs. To secure a spot, students are encouraged to apply by the early decision deadline. Applicants must meet the minimum requirements for dual enrollment admission to the University of Mississippi.
Application Process
The application process follows the Summer Credit Programs admissions process. Additionally, students must submit:
- Two online recommendations from teachers
- Personal essay
- Chinese only: A language sample (required for placement above beginner level)
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee. Selected students will be notified and provided with further instructions.
Costs
Program costs and a detailed estimate are available on our Costs page.
What Students are Saying
Former participants have shared their feedback with us. Take a look!
“The tutor-counselors were excellent, always eager to answer whatever questions or concerns I may have had. They were also brilliant tutors and encouraged me as I learned the language.”
“I enjoyed having a teacher that didn't underestimate us. He would tell us anything we needed to know! I found it refreshing and engaging”
“I was floored by how friendly everyone was. My instructor was so patient and positive with everyone in our class and the cultural events were really entertaining. My thanks to the University for being so generous with scholarships, too.”