CONTINUING EDUCATION

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Request Information View Winter 2026 Class Schedule

Explore Youth Programs

Hofstra Youth Programs

Hofstra Youth Programs provide year-round academic and enrichment courses for kids and teens across Long Island. Our classes help students build confidence, explore interests, and develop new skills — from early elementary learning to advanced enrichment and precollegiate preparation for college-bound teens.


Hofstra’s Four Seasons of Learning

Winter

A great time for skill refreshers and enrichment in academics, STEM, and creative subjects.

Spring

Build momentum with courses that support academic growth and encourage exploration.

Summer

Dive into hands-on learning experiences through academic review and creative projects.

Fall

Start strong with programs that reinforce key skills and introduce new learning pathways.







About the Gifted Academy

Hofstra University’s Gifted Academy provides advanced, fast-paced academic and enrichment programs for high-ability learners in grades K through 8. Designed to nurture intellectual curiosity and accelerate academic growth, our programs support gifted students with rigorous instruction, small class sizes, and opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and hands-on learning. Our gifted programs run year-round—including fall, spring, and summer—and offer both school-year enrichment classes and an immersive gifted summer camp on Long Island.

Program Highlights

The Gifted Academy offers enriched, advanced learning experiences designed to challenge and support high-ability students through:

  • Advanced academics in reading, writing, math, study skills, and STEM
  • Creative and expressive learning including digital media, cartooning, art, performance, and world languages
  • Communication development through speech, debate, and presentation skills
  • Small class sizes and individualized attention
  • Experienced New York State–certified teachers and subject-matter experts

Who Should Apply

The Gifted Academy is ideal for students who:

  • Consistently perform above grade level
  • Demonstrate strong motivation and intellectual curiosity
  • Thrive in a faster-paced, enriched academic environment
  • Seek advanced coursework, creative challenges, or deeper academic engagement

Eligibility Guidelines

Applicants should meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • IQ score of 125 or above
  • 95th percentile or higher on a nationally normed standardized test
  • Current or past participation in a school-based gifted program
  • Recognition by a regional or national talent search program

Note: State test scores are not accepted.

Explore Gifted Program Options and Next Steps


Application Process

A $50 nonrefundable application fee applies.

Applicants must submit:

  1. Gifted Academy Application — Online Form
  2. Test scores or IQ scores (optional if teacher recommendations are submitted)
  3. Two Teacher Recommendations — Online Form

Once reviewed, eligible students will be notified of acceptance and may enroll in either school-year gifted classes or our summer gifted camp.

School-Year Programming
(Youth Academy Gifted Track)

Accelerated weekend enrichment for high-ability learners who want deeper academic challenge during the school year.

  • Grades K-8
  • 8-week fall & spring sessions
  • Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Students take three one-hour classes each Saturday
  • Students choose courses each time block
  • Course offerings vary by semester
  • Application required
View Gifted Class Options Apply Now

Summer Programming
(Gifted Camp)

An immersive two-week summer experience combining accelerated academics, hands-on projects, and enrichment activities.

  • Grades 2-8
  • Two-week sessions
  • Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Campers choose two academic areas
  • 45 minutes per day in each academic area
  • Lunch, recreation, swim, and special activities included
  • Application required
View Gifted Camp Details Apply Now