Wharton LBW vs NYU Stern Summer: Which Program Is Right for You?
The two most-searched East Coast business summer programs. LBW is Wharton's flagship — case-heavy, team-based, and the biggest brand name in the category; NYU Stern's program trades some of that prestige for Manhattan immersion and more direct exposure to finance and marketing coursework. Both are selective pay-to-attend programs, so judge them on fit and cost, not resume magic.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of Wharton Leadership in the Business World (LBW) and NYU Stern Summer Business Program. A blank row is a fact we do not hold — not a zero, and not a no.
| Wharton LBW | NYU Stern Summer | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $11,899 | $650 |
| Application deadline | ||
| Grade eligibility | Grade 11 | Grades 11–12 |
| Format | In person | In person |
| Location | Philadelphia, PA, USA | New York, NY, USA |
| Program dates | June 28, 2026–July 18, 2026 | |
| Application destination | globalyouth.wharton.upenn.edu | stern.nyu.edu |
| Organizer | Wharton Global Youth Program (University of Pennsylvania) | NYU Stern School of Business |
Wharton Leadership in the Business World (LBW)
NYU Stern Summer Business Program
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Wharton LBW or NYU Stern Summer?
Wharton LBW: $11,899. NYU Stern Summer: $650. Confirm each figure on the program's official page before budgeting.
Can I apply to both Wharton LBW and NYU Stern Summer?
The application destinations are evaluated independently. Wharton LBW: globalyouth.wharton.upenn.edu. NYU Stern Summer: stern.nyu.edu. Review each provider's current instructions before assuming either application is open or compatible with the other.
Which is better for college applications, Wharton LBW or NYU Stern Summer?
We do not rank enrichment programs by admissions value. Use the comparison to assess whether each program's documented constraints fit your situation, and check the details that decide it for you on each program's official page.
What grades can apply to Wharton LBW and NYU Stern Summer?
Wharton LBW: Grade 11. NYU Stern Summer: Grades 11–12. Eligibility can change between cycles, so confirm it on each program's official page before applying.
