California State Summer School for the Arts
Catalog organization: California State Summer School for the Arts
Compiled by: ExtracurricularHub Editorial Team — editorial policy
Last updated
What Is California State Summer School for the Arts?
CSSSA is California's state-supported, selective, four-week residential pre-professional arts program. The completed 2026 session ran July 4-August 1 at Cal Poly Pomona and offered Animation, Architecture and Environmental Design, Dance, Film, Music, Theater, Visual Arts, and Writing. Successful students trained intensively in one admitted department while living in a larger arts community.
California residents enrolled in grades 8-12 could apply, including seniors graduating in spring 2026. A limited number of out-of-state and international students were also admitted. Selection was based on talent and creativity shown through department assignments and one adult reference. Students could submit separate applications to multiple departments but could enroll in only one. CSSSA welcomes up to roughly 500 students and reports a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio; neither number is an individual admission guarantee.
California State Summer School for the Arts Key Facts: Cost, Deadline, and Eligibility
| Cost | $5,174–$10,475 |
|---|---|
| Format | In person |
| Eligibility | Grades 8–12 |
| Application deadline | February 28, 2027 |
| Listing last updated | August 30, 2026 |
Program details shown here reflect the current catalog record.
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How to Apply to California State Summer School for the Arts
Open the application for California State Summer School for the Arts