Second Summer 2026

A Summer College Program

Level will be determined after placement exam.

Ready to explore Chinese language and culture like never before?

The UM Summer Chinese Language Institute (formerly Mississippi StarTalk) offers courses for all levels, blending practical language skills with exciting cultural themes like life in China, the Silk Road, and Chinese traditions. Join us and turn your summer into a global adventure!

*For International Students, get started here.

Apply

Dates
June 25-July 25, 2026

Level determined after exam
6 hours of transferrable college credit

Apply By
April 1, 2026

Program Overview

Summer College for High School Students is a four-week comprehensive program designed for high-achieving students eager to experience university life.

Participants can earn college credits and gain dual credit (both high school and college) for courses taken during the summer, all while becoming familiar with the collegiate environment.

All activities are tentative and subject to change depending on scheduling, booking availability, and course adjustments.

What You'll Do

  • Participate in Chinese language courses tailored to their skill level (beginner to intermediate).
  • Engage in hands-on cultural experiences such as cooking, calligraphy, and traditional games.
  • Practice real-life language scenarios like shopping, traveling, and meeting new people.
  • Explore themed lessons on topics like life in China, the Silk Road, and Chinese traditions.

What You'll Learn

  • How to express ideas clearly in Mandarin across everyday topics
  • Vocabulary and sentence structures for real-life communication
  • Insights into Chinese history, geography, and cultural values
  • How language reflects social customs and traditions in China
Apply

From the Program

students on exercise mats doing balancing exercise
students in classroom posing in front of white board
students working on lantern craft project in classroom
students on lawn in grove at music performance
students reviewing work in group
students doing organized exercise in turner center on ole miss campus
two students holding up chinese craft project in classroom
students on lawn in grove at music performance

Program Details

Ideal for:

  • High school students curious about Chinese language and culture
  • Learners seeking a fun, educational summer experience
  • Students interested in global perspectives and practical language use

Application Process

The application process follows the Summer Credit Programs admissions process. Additionally, students must submit:

  • Two online recommendations from teachers
  • Personal essay
  • A language sample (required for placement above beginner level)

Before the Program

Students will start receiving detailed information upon acceptence to the program. Students must attend two online orientation sessions, and will receive detailed information about move-in via email prior to the move-in date.

During The Program

Students in Summer College take two college-level courses taught by University of Mississippi faculty, earning 6–7 transferable credit hours and building a college GPA. Courses follow university grading policies and appear on a permanent transcript. Outside the classroom, students participate in a residential co-curriculum that fosters independence, social skills, and community engagement through activities and service opportunities.

Highlights:

  • Experience college academics and earn transferable credits
  • Develop life skills while living independently and making lasting friendships

End of the Program

Students are required to move out at designated times based on their final exam schedule. More details will be given during one of the online orientation sessions.

Cost of Program

$3,500

What’s Included

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Meal plan
  • Programming

What’s Not Included

  • Shuttle/van transportation to and from Memphis International Airport (unless requested)
  • Airfare to and from The University of Mississippi
  • Weekend meals
  • Personal spending money