Pre-college

Summer Institute

Sotheby’s Summer Institute invites high schoolers who are curious and passionate about arts and culture to immerse themselves in one of the most vibrant cultural capitals in the world: New York City.

From learning the intricacies of running galleries and museums to exploring painting and drawing techniques throughout history, our two-week summer courses for teenagers are designed to engage, inspire, and fuel creativity. Taught by leading scholars and professionals in the art world, each course draws on the global expertise of Sotheby’s Institute of Art and takes students behind the scenes of world class museums, galleries, auction houses, artists’ studios, and more.

Pre-registration for Summer 2026 is now open.

Pre-RegisterHow to Apply

Program Highlights

New York Is Your Classroom

With New York City as your campus, you will have access to all that the city has to offer, including famous museums, galleries, auction houses, and artists’ studios, in addition to iconic landmarks and neighborhoods.

Specialized Subject Areas

Summer Institute offers a course for a range of cultural interests, from art history, conservation, painting and drawing to art business, luxury and fashion. This summer, explore all of your art-related interests alongside peers with similar passions.

Engaging and Interactive Courses

Summer Institute is designed for students eager to engage with the art world – from art professionals who will walk you through case studies to the industry projects you’ll participate in, you will have the opportunity to experience the art world firsthand and develop a strong foundation for your future studies.

College Preparation

As a residential student, you will reside in a dorm-style facility, participating in a rigorous academic curriculum during the day and socializing with peers after classes in the heart of New York City. Summer Institute students will leave the program with a strong sense of what to expect when they enter college or the first stage of their career.

At a Glance

Program Duration

Two-week courses are offered in two separate terms in July. Students may enroll in more than one term. See the summer schedule for more information.

Eligibility

The program is open to rising high school students (grades 10-12) and graduating seniors. Students must be 15 years old by the first day of the program.

Admissions

Requires the completion of an online application and submission of supplementary materials. Learn more about our application and admissions process.

Accommodations

Students live in residence hall facilities in the heart of New York City.

Dining

Dining halls are able to accommodate a range of dietary restrictions.

Tuition

$5,660 for Day students, $6,990 for Residential students. Tuition is based on 2-week course. (Additional fees apply.)

Courses

Courses are available in a range of art topics including art business, art history, painting and drawing, and conservation. Explore our course catalog for more.

Course Catalog

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Featured

Student Life in NYC

For those who have dreamed of examining renowned artworks and exploring some of the most iconic art institutions in the world, Summer Institute offers you the opportunity to embark on an exciting summer adventure in New York City. Whether it’s a trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to observe classical paintings or gallery hopping with new friends, your days will be filled with opportunities to delve into your passion for art and create lifelong friendships, all while exploring one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

“This experience was truly once-in-a-lifetime. I learned so much about the art world and how it functions from a business and museum perspective.”

Gabrielle, Summer Institute, 2023

Next Steps

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