Westlake University, one of the most progressive and innovative research universities in China, invites talented high school students from around the world to join its Pre-College Summer Program.
Westlake University is a renowned research university in China known for its innovative and cutting-edge approach to teaching and research. This summer, the university will deliver the Pre-College Summer Program for talented high school students interested in sciences and engineering. The program provides engaging, eye-opening academic and cultural experiences that allow teenagers to explore pioneering research topics and learn more about where their strengths and passions lie, making them better prepared to make choices about their futures.
Westlake’s Pre-College Program brings together outstanding high school students from around the world to discover their calling in the fields of Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or Mechanical Engineering. Over two weeks this summer, students will be immersed in hands-on laboratory experience in their choice of interest areas, lectures that explore the cutting-edge frontiers of science, and educational field trips. In addition to these academic and research opportunities, students will also get to immerse themselves in Chinese culture through activities and field trips in the historic city of Hangzhou and surrounding areas, such as Shanghai.
Program Dates: July 5 – July 21, 2026
Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
About Westlake University
Westlake University is a research university in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. It was founded in 2018 by a group of leading scientists and educators who wanted to create a new model of higher education in China that combines cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary education, and international collaboration. Westlake University has four schools: the School of Science, the School of Engineering, the School of Life Sciences, and the School of Medicine. Westlake University has attracted some of the best faculty and students from prestigious global universities and has achieved remarkable results in various fields of science and engineering.
Why You Should Consider Joining: Program Benefits
Here’s why aspiring students should take advantage of this unique opportunity:
- Get a chance to study at one of the most innovative and prestigious universities in China.
- Learn from the best researchers and professors who are doing pioneering work at the frontier in the fields of science and engineering.
- Experience the academic and research culture of Westlake University, witnessing how it fosters creativity, curiosity, and collaboration among its students and faculty.
- Access the state-of-the-art facilities and equipment at Westlake University. Each day of the program involves hands-on laboratory activities where you will explore fascinating topics with scientists.
- Explore your interests and passions in science and engineering, and discover new possibilities and opportunities for your future studies and careers.
- Focus on your area of interest between Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, or Mechanical Engineering.
- Immerse yourself in the Chinese culture and language, learning about the rich history, traditions, values, and cuisine of China.
- Have opportunities to make friends and lasting memories with like-minded peers from different countries and backgrounds. The program is a chance to grow your network and expand your horizons.
- Earn college-level credits and receive a program certificate of completion.
- Gain priority for admissions to pursue further studies at Westlake University after graduating from high school.
- Get a taste of on-campus living at Westlake University’s well-furnished Residential Colleges.
What the Program Includes:
Daily Laboratory Experience
Conduct experiments and learn skills in one of the four academic tracks: Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, or Mechanical Engineering, guided by Westlake faculty and researchers.
Science Frontier Lectures
Attend lectures from pioneering Westlake faculty who will introduce you to the latest research and innovation, and inspire you to pursue your academic interests and goals.
Field Trips
Visit local start-ups, laboratories, and research institutions associated with Westlake’s scientists and faculty. Discover first-hand how organizations apply their knowledge and creativity to solve real-world problems and create social impact.
Cultural Immersion
Learn about the Chinese culture through various activities that will expose you to its history, traditions, values, and cuisine. You will also get to interact with local students and teachers and experience life in China.
Choice of 4 Program Tracks
The program offers four tracks for you to choose from based on your interests and talents. Each track has a different focus and covers different skills. The options are:
- Biology: Learn the theory of gene manipulation and acquire hands-on laboratory skills in molecular biology, instructed by Dr. Xiaobo Li. You will use CRISPR/Cas9 technology and genetic engineering techniques to study the biosynthetic process of chlorophylls and manipulate pigmentation in green alga.
- Biomedical Engineering: Grow your competence in the cross-disciplinary field of tissue engineering at the Biomaterials and Regenerative Engineering Alliance Laboratory (B-REAL), directed by Chair Professor Jian Yang. Learn how to prepare biodegradable polymers, culture human cells, and fabricate biomaterials into scaffolds using techniques like 3D printing to repair damaged tissues.
- Physics: Explore topological physics at the Non-Hermitian Dynamics and Devices Laboratory, led by Dr. Heming Wang. You will be introduced to the concept of topology and its applications in solid-state physics and optics, and build a mechanical or electrical topological insulator to observe its behavior experimentally.
- Mechanical Engineering: Learn all about bionic robot design, fabrication, and control at the i⁴ – FSI Lab, directed by Dr. Dixia Fan. Lab activities include designing and constructing “robotic fish”—autonomous vehicles that mimic natural creatures—and using 3D printing and locomotion programming to make them swim and sense their underwater environment.
Program Details
Westlake University offers this program each summer to rising high school juniors and seniors interested in science and engineering.
The Summer 2026 program takes place from July 5 to July 21. Applications for students to enter the program are now being accepted.
To partake in the program, students must meet the following requirements:
- You must be graduating from high school in 2027 or 2028 (current Grade 10 or 11).
- You have excellent academic performance, especially in STEM subjects. Priority is given to award winners in relevant competitions.
- You have strong English communication skills (the program is taught entirely in English).
- You are a non-Chinese citizen holding a valid foreign passport.
Program Application Fee
The application costs $500 per person for the whole duration. Westlake University offers scholarships for outstanding students, and those selected will be given priority for admission into Westlake undergraduate programs.
Visas & Insurance
All international students need a visa to visit China (unless from a visa-exempt country). Westlake University will issue an invitation letter to support your application.
- Option 1 (Standard F Visa): Westlake provides an invitation letter for a single-entry F visa valid for 3 months.
- Option 2 (YES Program): Applicants from the USA and Europe may be eligible for the “Young Envoys Scholarship” (YES) invitation letter, which supports a five-year, multiple-entry F visa and waives visa application fees.
The university will provide comprehensive medical insurance (offered by Ping An Annuity Insurance) for all students during the program.
Accommodation
Students are provided with on-campus accommodation in Westlake’s Residential Colleges. The student dorms feature well-furnished single-room dormitories, ensuring students have a safe, comfortable, and private living space in Hangzhou for the duration of the program.
Learn More
Westlake University offers many career pathways for anyone with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for discovery in science and engineering. Learn more about the university and apply to begin your academic journey abroad in Hangzhou, China.
Check out more details at the website and express your interest in the Pre-College Summer Program by sending an email to [email protected], mentioning that you saw the program on China Admissions.
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