Due to incredible interest for summer 2026, the HAP Application is currently closed.
If you have any questions about the program or your own application, please reach out to Mr. Michael Wright, Associate Director of Admissions at (201) 547-6465 or WrightM@spprep.org. We’re standing by and ready to help!
Important Dates for HAP 2026 Candidates
HAP 2026 begins June 23 and concludes July 24.
- Monday, March 9: HAP 2026 admission decisions mailed.
- Tuesday, June 23: HAP begins at 8:30 AM, sharp.
- Friday, July 3: No classes.
- Monday, July 20: Parent/teacher meeting, time TBA.
- Friday, July 24: Final day of HAP (12:00 dismissal)
- Friday, July 24: HAP graduation (7:00 PM)
The fee for the program, which helps us cover our expenses, ranges from $250-$600, depending on a family’s income. This fee will be due by the first day of class. If the registration fee presents a difficulty, please reach out. We do not want the fee to keep qualified boys from participating.
What is HAP, and why should a boy attend?
Founded in 1964, Prep’s Higher Achievement Program (HAP) has provided an unforgettable summer experience for nearly 10,000 young men in the months between their seventh and eighth grades. This unique five-week enrichment program combines academics, athletics and creative classroom techniques while teaching that learning can be fun and exciting.
A strong performance in the first marking period of eighth grade and on the HSPT Exam are crucial in the high school admissions process. The Higher Achievement Program motivates students to perform their best when they return to middle school in September. HAP is a one-time opportunity. The summer between seventh and eighth grade is the only chance a boy will have to attend.
Engaging Learning
Daily courses in English, Math, and Writing (plus special interest “option classes” like Science Lab or Star Wars & Storytelling, to name a few) emphasize engaging coursework in a caring, relaxed environment. We know that quality education is crucial in developing community leaders, and we begin today to prepare the leaders of tomorrow.
Our 15 full-time classroom teachers include current Saint Peter’s Prep faculty members, faculty of other high schools, and college students.
Intramural Sports
Students form lifelong friendships competing in intramural sports each afternoon. Offerings include basketball, volleyball, soccer, dodgeball and kickball. Dedicated players can compete in the HAP Games, a friendly competition against representatives from another summer program.
HAP combines academics, athletics and creative classroom techniques to form a memorable summer while leaving a lasting impression of the values of a good education.
Peer-to-peer Mentorship
Former HAP students know what a difference the Higher Achievement Program can make in a boy’s life. Aiding the HAP faculty are 40 tutors who are HAP graduates currently enrolled at Prep.
They provide one-on-one instruction, manage the afternoon athletic activities, and act as an example of what it means to be a full-time student at a Jesuit high school.
The program concludes with a graduation ceremony, complete with diplomas and awards. For almost every boy who graduates, the five weeks pass much too quickly!
What are people saying?
My son participated in the Higher Achievement Program last summer…he walks a bit taller when he is at Prep. The Prep Magic seemed to have an instantaneous effect on him.
HAP Parent
What I liked about HAP was the introduction to the great teachers I would later have and the friends I made. I had fun exploring the campus, partaking in activities with my peers, and learning about the policies that make Prep so enjoyable.
Patrick Cansino, HAP Graduate
Having the opportunity to attend the Higher Achievement Program cemented it as our choice for High School. Prep provides a strong academic structure for my son.
HAP Parent
What I enjoyed the most about HAP were the friends I made. Most of these friends have become my good friends here at Prep
John Halleron, HAP Graduate