New York

Vogue Summer School NYC FAQ

About the School

What is Vogue Summer School?

Vogue Summer School NYC invites high school students to immerse themselves in one of the most important fashion capitals in the world: New York City. Opening the doors to a unique world of excellence and creativity, students will explore a wealth of topics shaping fashion today and in the future through the expert eye of the world’s most famous and influential fashion brand. The program is developed and operated by Vogue College of Fashion and provides a world-class fashion education along with unrivaled access to the best and brightest minds in the industry. Our instructors are award-winning Vogue and Vogue College of Fashion journalists and other industry experts in the business and strategic sides of the fashion, media, and lifestyle industries.

What type of program is Vogue Summer School NYC?

Vogue Summer School NYC is a residential and day pre-college program that is academically rigorous and designed for high school students (rising 10th – 12th graders and graduating seniors) who are intellectually curious and passionate about fashion. Each dynamic and immersive two-week course is taught by fashion industry experts and takes students behind the scenes of Vogue Headquarters, flagship stores, fashion brand headquarters, galleries, designer studios, ateliers, and more.

What is Vogue Summer School’s Statement on DEI?

Vogue Summer School NYC is committed to fostering a culture that embraces the values of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We believe that diversity — in all its forms — is a driver for new ideas, creativity, and academic excellence. Moreover, we are dedicated to creating a climate of dignity and respect as well as recruiting and retaining a diverse group of leaders, administrators, faculty, staff, and students. Promoting a nurturing, inclusive environment means actively opposing intolerance, bigotry, bias, and discrimination. The policies and educational objectives of Vogue Summer School NYC further inclusivity and cultural effectiveness. These values are recognized, supported, and embraced fully by Vogue Summer School’s leadership. Additionally, we recognize that the responsibility for maintaining a culture of diversity and inclusion lies with all of us.

Admissions Process

How do I apply for Vogue Summer School NYC?

All prospective students must complete an application through our online submission system. The application requirements include answering a short question and submission of a current transcript and school report. We ask that prospective students themselves complete the online application and not their parents, counselors, or agents.

How are applications evaluated?

Admission to Vogue Summer School is competitive. All applications are carefully reviewed by our admissions committee. Admissions officers seek talented student leaders with diverse interests and ambitions. The committee strives to select critical thinkers who will contribute to a well-rounded, and academically engaging community of students. Each application is reviewed holistically, and qualified students who have shown an interest in Vogue Summer School and a strong academic background will be considered for admission to the program. Our goal is to accept as many qualified students as possible and to ensure we are accepting the right students into the right program for them while space remains.

Who is eligible to apply for Vogue Summer School NYC?

Rising 10th through 12th grade high school students and graduating seniors can apply. Students must be 15 years old by the first day of the program. Students who graduated from high school and are 18 years old may still apply for courses.

How will I be notified of an Admissions decision?

All applicants will be notified via email. Our admissions review process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, but we can often release a decision sooner.

I have been accepted, how do I enroll?

All admitted students must complete an Enrollment Form and submit a nonrefundable initial payment of $1500 per course to guarantee their place in Vogue Summer School. Students and parents will be sent an acceptance email containing a link to complete the form and select the course(s) they would like to attend. At the end of the form, the system will prompt you to submit your first payment.

Are applications reviewed on a rolling basis?

All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. However, we recommend that students start the application process and submit their application as soon as possible to guarantee their application is submitted promptly. Please note that all supplemental documents must also be submitted by the deadline for your application to be considered.

After my application is submitted, can I change it?

No, once an application has been submitted, you are not allowed to change it. Please contact the admissions office at precollege@voguesummerschool.com if you have any questions.

Do transcripts have to be official?

Transcripts do not have to be official. Unofficial copies are acceptable.

What is a school report?

A secondary school report has information about the school, its curriculum, and its grading system. Your school office or guidance counselor should be able to provide this information.

Do you require test scores?

No, we do not request nor require test scores when considering admission to Vogue Summer School.

How do I log back into my application?

Visit the school portal to access your application.

International Students

Do you provide student visas for international students?

Unfortunately, we do not provide student visas, nor do we provide information on how to obtain visas for travel to the United States. We encourage international students to contact their country of origin’s embassy/government office for that information. Letters of verification can be provided upon request.

Is there a minimum English language requirement for the program?

There are no formal English language requirements for courses. However, if you are a non-U.S. student and English is not your first language, we recommend that you have or be able to use English (verbal and written) at a level equivalent to a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 95 before commencing your studies. It is your responsibility to ensure you will be able to participate fully in a qualification delivered and assessed in English.

I have an international bank account; can I pay the tuition via automatic bank payment?

All payments must be made directly in the portal using their parent and/or guardian’s contact information used in the program application.

Tuition, Scholarship, and Financial Aid

Are Scholarships available?

Yes, Vogue Summer School is committed to making its programs accessible to students from all backgrounds. We believe financial circumstances should not be a barrier to world-class, pre-collegiate education. Our Scholarship Program aims to improve the availability, access, and equity of learning opportunities by providing scholarships based on financial need.

How are scholarship applications evaluated?

The Admissions Committee reviews all complete applications holistically. Students who wish to be considered for scholarships must submit a completed program application followed by a scholarship application.

If I am not awarded a scholarship, can I still attend?

A student’s need for financial assistance has no bearing on admission to the program. Students accepted to the program, but not offered a scholarship, may still enroll.

What payment plans are available?

Students who prefer to pay in installments can set up an automated payment plan at the time they enroll in their courses. Automated payment plans will charge a non-refundable initial payment of $1500 per term, followed by equal monthly installments through Spring 2025. 

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted payment methods may include:

  • Credit Cards & Debit Cards: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
  • Local Bank Transfer
  • Bank Payment: Checking Account or Saving Account

When will full tuition be due?

To enroll and reserve your spot in the program, admitted students will be required to pay a non-refundable initial payment of $1,500 per course. Students will have the option to pay in full or pay by monthly installments due by Spring. Students who enroll after May 1 must have their full payment due two to three weeks prior to the start of the program.

What is the refund, Policy?

The first initial payment of $1500 for Vogue Summer School is non-refundable. To withdraw from the program for any reason before the start of the term, the student must notify Vogue Summer School in writing via email, and, depending on the date of withdrawal, a portion of the tuition and fees previously paid may be refunded. No refunds will be given for early departures from a program, once it is underway, whether voluntary or otherwise.

Date of Receipt of Written Cancellation Notification

Date of receipt of written cancellation Percentage of program fees refunded (less non-refundable initial payment of $1500 and processing fee of $245)   
Before February 1 100%
February 2 – March 1 60%
March 2 – April 15 30%
After April 15 0%

*The first initial payment of $1500 and all processing fees are not eligible for refund. 

Can I use my 529 funds to pay for this program?

The school does not award college credit for its precollege program. Therefore, 529 funds cannot be used.

Travel and Safety

Is New York City safe?

New York City is one of the safest big cities in the United States. While the residence hall and academic buildings are secure spaces, students should note that our campus is not separated from the city. As always, students should stay alert and travel with caution when leaving campus and understand that their distance from campus limits the ability of our student life staff to provide support. We encourage students and parents/guardians to discuss safety and guidelines before they arrive at Vogue Summer School. Parents should feel comfortable allowing their students to move unsupervised throughout New York City during their off time.

How will the students get to and from the program to the airport?

Found Study, Turtle Bay located in midtown Manhattan at 525 Lexington Avenue is accessible from all three major airports in the New York metropolitan area: John F. Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Taxi and ride sharing services (such as Uber Teen) are available from all airports. Additional information about airport transportation and other forms of public transportation is available online through The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey website.

NYC Subway and Bus Services: Found Study, Turtle Bay can be accessed at The Lexington Ave/51st Street subway station which is served by the 6 and the E train lines. Buses M101, M102, M103 make stops in surrounding area bus stations. Please see the MTA for schedule, routes, and maps.

Please remember to check policies for unaccompanied minors when making travel and transportation arrangements.

This information is provided for information purposes only.  The School does not endorse and is not affiliated or associated with any transportation company or agency.

How Do I Communicate with You During the Program?

A dedicated phone line is provided all to students and families prior to move-in day which connects to program staff at the Welcome Desk, the program communication center throughout the duration of the term and attends to student and parent/guardian queries. The Summer School will primarily communicate with parents through email at studentlife@voguesummerschool.com

All students will be given an Emergency Phone Number on the day of their arrival. While they will have access to our team at any time, this number allows students to reach us in case of emergencies.

Who is supervising the students?

All classes and official program activities are chaperoned by our instructors and program staff. Security and student life staff are in the residential hall 24/7 for the program’s duration.

Are program staff required to have background checks?

All staff who have regular interaction with students will have comprehensive background checks completed before they are allowed to begin working in the program. This includes instructional staff, residential staff, and any other staff who will have more than incidental interaction with students.  All staff receive Protection of Minors training and clear policies are outlined and enforced to ensure that student safety is prioritized.

Is health insurance required?

Yes. All students must have valid health insurance coverage for the program’s duration. In the past, international students have purchased travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during their stay in the United States.

How will students travel around New York City?

Students will be accompanied by instructors and/or program staff during class site visits and official program activities.

During free time, students can travel around New York City with other students by using our checkout system. We recommend that students and parents/guardians discuss safety and guidelines before they arrive at Vogue Summer School. Parents should feel comfortable allowing their students to move unsupervised throughout New York City during their off time.

Do students need to purchase a MetroCard for public transit?

Yes, students are responsible for their own travel expenses during the program. And will need to do so before checking into the program that first Sunday.

Two ways to obtain travel passes are:

a. tap to pay on mobile phone (requires credit card upload onto their phones) (Recommended)

b. Purchase a MetroCard on site in any subway station prior to arrival

Students should budget approximately $6 per round trip for the entirety of the two-week term. Additional costs need to be accounted for should they wish to attend additional optional activities that require travel outside of the campus boundary.

When do students need to arrive?

Check-in day is on Sunday, the day before the first day of class, and is mandatory for both residential and day students. Please plan for arrivals accordingly. All students will participate in the required student orientation after they have checked in and should plan for an evening of activities with the residence life staff. Details on move-in and orientation programming will be provided prior to the start of the program.

Can I arrive early / leave late from the program?

No. Move-In/Out days and times are the start and end of the program term. We will not have housing or staff available outside of the specified term dates and times.

I have family/friends in the New York Metropolitan area. Can they make arrangements to take my child out for a meal during the program?

Yes. Students may complete a Special Leave Request to checkout from campus alone to meet with family and friends. Students must be back on campus by curfew and should only submit requests for designated free time.  Typically, Special Leave Requests will be granted from the first Thursday of the term, due to the mandatory community events for the first three term evenings.

Will items left behind in dorm rooms during the day be safe and secure?

We recommend that students keep their rooms locked when unattended, and that students not bring any valuables. Vogue Summer School takes no responsibility for lost or stolen items.

Academics

What does my academic day look like?

Students will attend classes daily for 9 weekdays from 9:30am-4:30pm. Classes are comprised of lectures, group and individual projects, guest speakers and site visits.

Who are my instructors?

Instructors for each course are fashion stylists, editors, journalists, or industry professional and thought leaders.

What kind of academic support is provided?

Three Tier Structure

Each class offers a three-tier support system comprised of a Lead Instructor and an Instructor, both whom are supported by an academic support team.

Academic Office Hours

Each course offers scheduled academic office hours after class throughout the duration of the program. Students are welcome to attend for support, tutoring, project support, or industry mentorship.

Does The School Provide Instructional Accommodations?

‍Yes, the School wants every student to succeed and strives to create a safe and inclusive environment that can support each student’s individual needs. We welcome requests for student instructional accommodation, (academic, physical, assistive technologies or other), for students with disabilities, which may be required inside and/or outside of the classroom. We strongly encourage the disclosure of this information from students and their families. It is requested that students and their families submit instructional accommodation requests, any supporting documentation, and other important information that may shape a student’s experience at the program as early as possible in the enrollment process in order to provide sufficient time to make any necessary arrangements, if appropriate, and ensure that all students have a fulfilling, enjoyable and safe experience.

All instructional accommodation requests and notifications should be submitted using the Program Form so that we may review the request; contact the student and their family for additional information, as needed. The school values and is sensitive to individual needs and will work to accommodate reasonable requests where possible and practical.

Program Events and Student Life

What are some examples of evening/weekend activities and events?

Vogue Summer School offers a variety of carefully curated co-curricular activities for students on weeknights as well as weekends, for both residential and day students throughout their term. Some activities include the Industry Speaker Series, a day trip to Governor’s Island, Young Professionals, College Night, and other events.

Please see here for a sample schedule of events.

There is an expectation that students may have homework after class. In the evenings, students will also have access to residence hall study spaces that facilitate individual and group work.

Are any college visits part of the curriculum?

While there are not any formal college campus tours, students will participate in a college prep event that allows them to learn about the admissions and application processes to prominent fashion and fashion-related university programs in New York City. The event will also include industry speakers and panelists, including previous pre-college alumni currently in college and recent graduates of fashion programs, to learn about navigating college life, building a professional portfolio, internships and more.

Will you be doing anything special for Juneteenth or (U.S.) Independence Day?

The campus will remain open on Thursday, June 19, 2025 and on Friday,  July 4th, 2025, and optional residential programming may occur in the evening for celebration.

Where do students reside during Vogue Summer School?

Students live at FOUND Study Turtle Bay, a student-accommodation housing campus located in midtown Manhattan and reside in shared dormitories with laundry facilities, lounges, study spaces and cafeteria.

How are room assignments made?

At Vogue Summer School, we believe in the value of communal living and the holistic benefit that having a roommate provides students in our precollege program. The roommate experience affords students the opportunity to grow and nurture life skills such as communication, tolerance, and compromise, among others. We encourage our students to embrace the roommate experience with an open mind and heart-roommates tend to lead to long, lasting friendships.

Students are typically roomed according to their age or grade and self-identified gender listed in the program form sent after enrollment. Vogue Summer School may consult with students on an individual basis as needed to find appropriate accommodation. Students will learn their room assignment upon arrival to the program.

If families have any residential room accommodation requests, (i.e., single room requests, or roommate request with a peer) you will be able to notify the program staff with the request after enrollment. Note, we may not be able to accommodate all requests due to limited space availability, but we value and are sensitive to individual needs and will work to accommodate reasonable requests where possible and practical.

Note: Students will not be able to request room changes upon arrival or during program duration.

What about food? What if my child has special dietary needs or preferences?

Meals are provided and include vegetarian and vegan options. Students and families must indicate any other necessary dietary accommodations prior to arrival in their program form.  Families with specific dietary concerns are encouraged to contact the program office at studentlife@voguesummerschool.com as early as possible to speak with us directly about accommodation options.

Can parents visit students?

Students are free to visit with their parents and other family members off campus during their free time. Parents are not permitted into the residence hall after initial move-in.

Day Students

My child is a day student, do I need to drop them off and pick them up each day?

Transportation for day students to and from the program is decided by the student and their families. Day students are required however, to check themselves in each morning at the Welcome Desk on campus and out at the end of the day.

When can day students check in on weekdays?

Day students should arrive on class days at least 15 minutes prior to their class start time to check in with program staff at the Welcome Desk. Day students can check out any time with the Welcome Desk after afternoon class sessions conclude.

Note: Day students will be required to travel to and from all academic site visits and co-curricular activities with their class or living and learning community. Thus, Day students cannot arrive nor leave any academic or co-curricular site visit on their own accord.

Can day students remain on campus after class sessions conclude?

Yes. Day students are encouraged to remain on campus and attend evening and weekend activities, with access to all the same spaces and programming as residential students. The day and residential programs only differ regarding room and board. We do ask that all day students depart from the residence hall by curfew.

My child is a day student, are the weekend events and activities required?

The purpose of the co-curricular activities is to provide a unique and holistic New York City experience to complement the academic rigor of the classroom. Co-curricular activities and events also offer the opportunity for students to bond outside of the classroom. While we encourage all day students to partake in all events, we understand that some of the evening events might pose a transportation and or time concern for some, therefore the co-curriculars, while strongly encouraged, will be optional for day students. Some signature events however, such as the Photo Challenge and Industry Speaker Series will be required.

Packing List and Dress Code

What should I bring to Vogue Summer School?

  1. Clothing: light and cool casual summer clothing, jacket or sweatshirt, raincoat, swimsuit, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, a set of nicer clothes (for more formal events)
  2. Weather gear: sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, reusable water bottle
  3. Academic supplies: laptop, notebook, pen
  4. Camera and/or journal/diary
  5. Personal electronics: U.S compatible cell phone and plan, alarm clock, hair dryer, headphones, chargers and laptop adapters (if international), portable external hard drive (for Fashion Styling Students)
  6. Bedding and Linens (these are not provided by residential dorms) Fitted Twin XL-sized sheets, blanket, towel, pillow etc.
  7. Photo ID (e.g. government issued ID, official school ID, or copy of passport)
  8. Copy of health insurance card (front and back)
  9. Spending money (for travel, souvenirs, and incidentals)

Should students bring a tablet, laptop or other classroom material?

Students will be doing a good deal of writing and keyboards are essential, hence the recommendation that they bring laptops. Tablets with an attached keyboard are also acceptable. Students who do not have a laptop may be able to borrow a Google Chromebook at the start of the program, however availability is on a first come first served basis.

What shouldn’t I bring to Vogue Summer School?

Students may not bring flammable materials, including but not limited to candles, incense, matches, lighters, electronic cigarette/JUUL products, explosive devices or fireworks. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.

Students are not allowed to bring weapons of any kind, including but not limited to knives, pepper spray, firearms, paintball guns, laser pointers or other dangerous items. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.

Students are not allowed to use or possess tobacco products, alcoholic beverages or unauthorized drugs or medication. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal.

Students are not allowed to have a car, skateboard, skates, or a bicycle on campus.

Students may not bring pets of any kind.

Students may not bring cooking or kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators.

We recommend that students not bring any valuables; The Summer School does not bear any responsibility for lost or stolen items.

Is there a particular dress code?

Vogue Summer School expects all students to represent themselves and the Institute in a way that is appropriate for an academic and professional environment. Students will frequently interact with industry professionals and scholars, affording them exclusive networking opportunities. As such, we require that certain body parts (genitals, buttocks, breasts, nipples, and bellybuttons) must be covered by opaque clothing at all times. That said, we support positive, creative forms of self-expression and encourage students to be who they are.  Students must wear:

  • Tops that are full-length in coverage (no crop tops)
  • Bottoms consist of pants/jeans or the equivalent (skirt, sweatpants, leggings, a dress or shorts) and do not expose any of the
  • aforementioned body parts
  • Shoes/sandals/flip flops

Vogue Summer School will not accept:

  • Clothing or accessories with violent language or imagery
  • Clothing or accessories with language depicting drugs or alcohol or any illegal activity
  • Clothing or accessories with images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment
  • Swimsuits
  • Accessories that could be dangerous or used as a weapon

Are there laundry facilities on campus?

Yes, there are laundry facilities within the residence halls for a fee. Students will need to download the service app on their phones to select washers, dryers and pay per use. Students must provide their own detergent. Please note, students are responsible for washing their own bedding and towels.

Can I send my child a package or mail?

Yes, students may receive packages and mail to their temporary residences. However, we caution students and families to consider the limited timeframe of stay as packages and mail are not guaranteed to arrive on time. The Summer School is not responsible for late mail or packages while students live on site nor after their departure.

Should I give my student an extra daily allowance?

Most program-related expenses are included in the program tuition or supplemental fees. However, New York City provides many opportunities for shopping and students have typically wanted to acquire souvenirs of their stay. Travel expenses and any additional meals or activities students wish to take part in will require additional expenditure.  We recommend that students and parents exercise prudence and that students not carry around large amounts of currency.

Is there a Program Curfew?

Vogue Summer School does strictly enforce a program curfew for safety and security protocols. Residential students must be in their assigned room each evening by 9:30 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Residential staff will conduct room checks at curfew. If a student is late for curfew, parents/guardians will be called immediately. Students are expected to be in their assigned room during curfew hours between 9:30 p.m.-7:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday. If students need staff assistance during curfew hours, they should call the emergency line. Curfew hours are also established as quiet hours to allow students to sleep and study undisturbed.

What Does the Meal Plan Include?

Vogue Summer School provides residential students with breakfast, lunch and dinner on weekdays, and weekend breakfast (Saturdays and Sundays). Day students will be provided with daily weekday lunch. Meals will be served at FOUND Study and are organized and facilitated by our food service partner, Aramark. To learn more about Aramark visit https://www.aramark.com/home

Student Evaluations

Will students receive certificates for the program?

Yes. All students that successfully complete the term in good standing will receive a digital certificate from Vogue Summer School.

Will instructors provide feedback to students?

Yes. Each student who completes the course and is in good standing will receive a narrative evaluation from their instructor via their Canvas account.

How does Vogue Summer School benefit my college application?

As a pre-college program, Vogue Summer School gives students the opportunity to get a glimpse of the college experience while also exploring fashion world topics of study with the premier leader in fashion world education. Typically, college admissions officers look favorably on students who continue to enhance their academic portfolio during the summer months. Students will also benefit from receiving a narrative evaluation from their instructor which can be included as part of their college applications.

Health and Wellness

How is The School handling COVID-19 and other Infectious Diseases?

All students, faculty and staff are expected to follow all campus and Vogue Summer School’s safety policies and procedures. Failure to comply will result in being restricted from campus. These policies and procedures are subject to change and may be updated from time to time in accordance with any changes in laws, regulations, and public health guidance issued by the CDC, New York State, or New York City. Do not hesitate to reach out to studentlife@voguesummerschool.com with questions about the campus as it applies to your health and safety.

Are there required vaccinations for the program?

All students must provide health information including proof of immunization for Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Meningitis in the Program Form after enrollment.

Vogue Summer School students are not required to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination. However, we strongly recommend that students follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 which recommend that everyone be up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including booster doses.

We reserve the right to require any vaccinations as recommended by the Center for Disease Control, Food and Drug Administration, The World Health Organization, New York State or City agencies, and the program’s accommodation provider, as deemed necessary for the prevention and control of any outbreak of communicable, infectious diseases.

Are there any medical exemptions that The School will consider?

Exemptions to certain requirements for medical reasons may be granted in limited circumstances and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Exemptions might be requested for a medical condition that contraindicates a student from:

  • receiving other vaccinations
  • being able to share a room with other students (requiring a solo room if space permits)
  • other relevant conditions

Exemption requests must be received at least 2 weeks prior to the start of term. The School will notify students by email if the exemption request has been accepted or rejected. In the case of an accepted medical exemption request, the student must follow all current School guidelines contained within this policy. To request a medical exemption, the student must submit a letter signed by a certified/licensed medical provider describing the student’s medical condition. The letter must certify to the following:

  • The student is the patient of the medical provider;
  • The medical provider has reviewed the student’s medical history;
  • The student has a medical condition that contraindicates a student from one or more of the above listed circumstances

The letter must also provide contact information for the medical provider (name, address, telephone and email) and should be sent to the program team after enrollment.

Does The School provide mental health counselors during the program?

Vogue Summer School does not provide ongoing mental health counselors for students, but it is prepared to handle emergencies according to The School’s mental health safety plans. Students and their families are encouraged to discuss and prepare for the potential challenges of attending a rigorous academic program that may be in an unfamiliar environment far from home. This preparation should include arranging for any necessary mental health support before the start of the program and indicating any ongoing care in the student health forms.