FAQs

The HMCSF Youth Leadership Summer Camp at Harvard University in collaboration with Learn with Leaders, is an experiential program at Harvard University that empowers teenagers to become leaders and changemakers by launching impact initiatives under the guidance of experienced mentors from The Harvard Model Congress San Francisco, while getting the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Harvard University, Classroom and campus Life!

The Summer Camp is open to students in grades 8 to 12 or in the age group of 13-17 years.

The Summer Camp takes place at Harvard University at Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. This Camp offers participants an exclusive chance to venture into the hallowed halls of Harvard University, where they will not only explore its illustrious campus and classrooms but also immerse themselves in its captivating cultural heritage and vibrant academic atmosphere.

The Summer Camp will be conducted in three batches: Batch 1 (22-29 June, 2025), Batch 2 (6 to 13 July, 2025), and Batch 3 (20-27 July, 2025) students can opt for any one batch, with daily sessions held from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, which will include transformative sessions and workshops led by accomplished Mentors from The Harvard Model Congress San Francisco. Participants will also engage in dynamic collaborative assignments that will ignite their creativity and leadership potential.

The Summer Camp aims to empower participants to develop projects aimed at solving local issues that they are passionate about. The specific nature of these initiatives will be discussed and guided by experienced mentors from The Harvard Model Congress San Francisco during the program.

Yes, the Summer Camp provides a valuable opportunity for participants to network with their peers, mentors, and possibly engage with guest speakers or experts in various fields from across the world.

Yes. At the culmination of the Summer Camp, participants will be presented with prestigious certificates of completion, jointly issued by The HMCSF Youth Leadership Summer Camp. These certificates serve as a testament to their active engagement, exemplary participation, and successful completion of the program. By receiving these esteemed certificates, participants not only gain recognition for their accomplishments but also enhance their resumes and portfolios, showcasing their dedication to personal growth and their involvement in impactful projects.

While the program undoubtedly enriches participants' portfolios and equips them with valuable skills and knowledge necessary for admissions to prestigious Ivy League universities, it is important to note that successful completion of the program does not guarantee automatic admission to Harvard University. Instead, it serves as a stepping stone towards academic excellence, empowering participants to stand out in the competitive university application process by demonstrating their dedication, commitment, and readiness to take on the challenges of higher education.
Refund

Please note that the deadline for receiving a full refund for the HMCSF Youth Leadership Summer Camp is 28th May, 2025. Post 28th May, 2025 only partial refund on tuition fee will be possible. Hotel accommodation fee will not be refunded.

In the event of a visa rejection, full refunds will be processed after confirmation of the same till 28th May. However, proof of visa rejection must be provided for the refund to be granted.
Travel, Boarding and Lodging

You are eligible for an airport pick-up and drop and stay at Cambria Hotel Boston Somerville (in a twin-sharing room) near Harvard University for 7 nights and 8 days, with breakfast and dinner provided at the hotel and lunch at Harvard University from 23rd June onwards (if you are in Batch 1), 7th July onwards (if you are in Batch 2), and 21st July onwards (if you are in Batch 3) .

For Batch 1: The check-in time is 3 PM on 22nd June 2025 and check-out time is 12 PM on 29th June, 2025. Any other booking (for room or timings beyond what we provide) will be borne by the student. In case, the student arrives earlier than 22nd June or leaves after 29th June, she or he will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the airport.

For Batch 2:The check-in time is 3 PM on 6th July 2025 and check-out time is 12 PM on 13th July, 2025. Any other booking (for room or timings beyond what we provide) will be borne by the student. In case, the student arrives earlier than 6th July or leaves after 13th July, she or he will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the airport.

For Batch 3:The check-in time is 3 PM on 20th July 2025 and check-out time is 12 PM on 27th July, 2025. Any other booking (for room or timings beyond what we provide) will be borne by the student. In case, the student arrives earlier than 20th July or leaves after 27th July, she or he will be responsible for their own transportation to and from the airport.

The student will also be responsible for their own conveyance other than airport pick-up and drop, and/or personal or sightseeing expenses during the program.

No, personal expenses such as sightseeing, commuting, tickets, visa fees, and any other costs unrelated to the Summer Camp are not covered by the fee.

We understand the excitement of teachers and guardians accompanying students to the Summer Camp at Harvard University. While they are welcome to drop off students at the campus, we kindly remind you that access to the classrooms during the program is exclusive to registered participants.

If applicable, participants are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas or permits required to enter and stay in the United States for the entire duration of the Summer Camp.

We understand that obtaining a visa for international travel can be a complex process. To assist you in your visa application, we are pleased to provide an invitation letter that can support your documentation requirements. This letter serves as an official invitation from The HMCSF Youth Leadership Summer Camp, affirming your participation in the program.

The nearest airport to Harvard University is typically Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

The Summer Camp organizers do not directly assist with individual travel arrangements. However, they can provide general guidance or suggestions on transportation options if needed.

In case of any accompanying adult or guardian with the student, an additional USD 2500 (for twin-sharing room) or USD 3500 (for single occupancy room) per head has to be paid to cover his or her stay, meals and airport transfer.

International participants should ensure they have the necessary visas or permits required to enter and stay in the United States for the entire duration of the Summer Camp. It is important to fulfill all visa requirements well in advance of the program start date.
Medical Provisions

We are not responsible for any medical assistance, although in case of the situation, we will try our best to handle any medical emergencies or basic medical assistance (during the program timings) subject to availability of resources.

Ensuring the well-being and safety of all participants is of utmost importance to us. To ensure a smooth and secure Summer Camp experience, we kindly request that all participants submit a medical form or certificate of fitness. This form will provide us with essential medical information and an emergency contact, enabling us to provide appropriate care and support throughout the program.
Food

Yes, lunch will be provided to all participants during the Summer Camp at Harvard University from 23-28 June , 2025 (for Batch 1), 7th-12th July, 2025 (for Batch 2), 21-26 July, 2025 (for Batch 3) which is included in the Fee. Dietary restrictions and preferences can be e-mailed to us to accommodate specific needs to the best extent possible.

The student is also eligible to receive breakfast and dinner (along with stay) during the program dates at The Cambria Boston Hotel Somerville (the accompanying guardian is also eligible to receive the same upon the payment of USD 2500-for twin sharing room/USD 3500 (for single occupancy room). For details, regarding the same, please check the schedule page.
Communications and Phone Service

Participants are advised to either activate an international package on their existing SIM cards or obtain an international SIM card. It is important to provide us with their phone numbers and email IDs so that all communications regarding the Summer Camp can be sent to the registered IDs.

All communications regarding the Summer Camp will be sent to the email IDs provided during registration. Participants are requested to check their registered email IDs on a regular basis to stay updated with important information and announcements.

Participants should carry their school IDs, photo IDs, or any other valid identification proof for verification purposes during the Summer Camp.
Code of Conduct

Participants are responsible for behaving responsibly and respectfully towards others. Discrimination of any kind is strictly prohibited. Participants should embrace the diversity of students from across the globe and foster a supportive and inclusive environment.

Participants are expected to adhere to a code of conduct that promotes a positive and inclusive environment. Inappropriate behaviors such as using social racist slurs or engaging in offline or online abuse are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Participants are encouraged to treat others with respect, kindness, and empathy throughout the program.

The dress code for the Summer Camp is semi-formal/formal/smart casual. Participants are advised not to wear shorts and slippers during the program. It is important to dress appropriately for the enriching academic and professional atmosphere of the Summer Camp.