How competitive is Outset?

Outset is a competitive summer program for 9th-12th grade students interested in medical careers. We receive thousands of applicants each year and accept fewer than 50% of students. We have strict academic standards and require applicants to submit a statement about their interest in medicine. If you pass our initial screening, then you will have a 10-minute video call with our Admissions team. After this call we request a teacher reference for some applicants.

What is the Admissions process?

We have an easy 3-step Admissions process. First, you apply online. Next if you pass our initial screening you will be invited to a 10-minute video meeting with our Admissions team. We will ask you about your interest in medicine and Outset. Finally, for some applicants we require a teacher reference. Once you have completed all 3 steps, we give you a decision in 3-5 business days.

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1-Week

Grades 9-12

Summer 2026

Program Overview for Parents

At Outset, our top priority is student safety. Our trainings and safety policies aim to match the industry standards set by the American Camp Association.

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The Outset Experience

A future medical student with long blond hair is smiling while sitting at a table, holding food. The context is a casual indoor dining area with other people in the background.

Three students in white lab coats observe a medical procedure. One person adjusts a tool on a simulated patient in a clinical setting, under bright surgical lights.

A group of future medical students wearing white lab coats gather around a table, smiling and using smartphones. Nearby are black bags labeled "Class of 2026" in a bright room with large windows.

A future medical student gives two thumbs up, smiling in a white shirt and pink shorts, standing in front of stadium seating filled with spectators. The text "Pinnacle Party Deck" is visible.

A group of future medical students sit attentively in a classroom, facing forward. One student, wearing a blue shirt, is smiling and engaged in conversation. Papers and a blue eraser are on desks.

Ultrasound machine sits beside an examination bed in a well-lit medical room, with shadows cast on the walls, creating a clean and clinical environment.

Outset was an amazing program. There were excellent simulations and speakers that helped us better understand what practicing medicine looks like.

—

Natalie Kayser

11th grade, 2024 alum

A group of eight Outset staff members stands smiling, wearing black shirts with "Outset" logos. They are outdoors on grass in front of a grand, columned building.

Five future medical students wearing lab coats stand in a hallway, holding papers, appearing to listen attentively. The setting includes a wooden floor, green walls, and a closed door.

for parents

Why Choose Outset?

Outset is a competitive teen summer program for students exploring careers in business. Our 1-week programs are hosted on leading college campuses around the US.

What your student gets:

Immersive, hands-on business experience
Experience life on a college campus
Trained staff & leaders focused on safety
Make friends with teens with similar goals

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Included in every program:

Clean Housing

Outset programs are hosted on top university campuses. Students live in university dorms with an Outset roommate for a real college experience.

Healthy Meals

Every Outset program includes a full meal package from Sunday dinner to Friday lunch. Most meals are at campus dining halls, with a few exceptions.

24/7 Staff

Our trained campus staff live on-campus in your dorm and are available 24/7 to guide and support you during your week at Outset.

Two future medical students are practicing taking blood pressure in a classroom. One sits with a cuff on her arm, while the other uses a stethoscope and gauge. A chalkboard reads "Happy day!"

Baby sits calmly while a person uses a stethoscope on their chest. Another hand gently holds the baby's arm. They're in a clinical setting, suggesting a medical examination.

Hands hold a medical tool, practicing sutures on a synthetic skin pad. Student wears a white lab coat, likely in a clinical or educational setting with sterile instruments nearby.

A doctor in a blue shirt assists a student wearing a lab coat and gloves with dental equipment in a classroom setting, surrounded by dental chairs and monitors.

Students in white lab coats practice suturing techniques at a table, guided by an instructor in a dark shirt. The room has a light-blue wall and a whiteboard in the background.

A student practices suturing on a model while an instructor guides her in a classroom setting. The student wears a lab coat, and the instructor's coat reads "UNC School of Medicine."

Popular Programs

Criminal Law

Intellectual Property

Future medical students in white coats examine a mock patient under bright surgical lights in a hospital operating room. Medical equipment and supplies are visible in the background.

The trusted leader for teen career exploration.

Outset is trusted by 1,000+ families each summer for high-quality teen summer programs. Read our reviews and see why we're the leading brand for summer education.

A stylized apple with a green ribbon appears beside the bold text "NCHSE" and below it, "National Consortium for Health Science Education," against a plain background.

A future medical student wearing a backpack and a lanyard with a badge smiles while walking outdoors on a sunny street, surrounded by trees and buildings.

A person in gloves prepares an IV bag with medication in a sterile lab environment. Nearby are a yellow medical waste container and bottles.

Our Campuses

Outset is a 3rd-party program that is affiliated with some but not all host universities.

Chapel Hill, Nc

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will Outset help me get into college?

Outset is an extracurricular academic program. Like many extracurriculars, Outset can be a helpful addition to your resume and college application but will likely not be the deciding factor in your college application. Your grades, references, test scores, and personal statement matter most. Still, Outset can demonstrate to colleges and universities that you have a serious interest in medicine and have taken steps to explore that interest. Some alumni even talk about Outset in their personal statements.

Does Outset have a cost? Is there financial aid?

Yes, Outset has a program fee that is $2,950 (or $4995 for global programs). This fee covers your university housing, meals, academic and faculty costs, as well as the costs of Outset campus staff. For students who cannot afford the full fee, you can request financial aid or scholarships in our online application.

What is the application deadline?

Outset does not have an application deadline. We have rolling admissions. Our programs and campuses do fill up fast, so we recommend applying as early as you can.

What are the summer 2026 dates?

Our dates for summer 2026 depend on the campus and program. For most campuses and most programs we have several week options available in June and July, but these programs may fill. We recommend applying and speaking with a member of our Admissions team to determine which programs are currently available.

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