Institute for College Preparation

Who We Are

Georgetown University Institute for College Preparation (ICP) is a pre-college academic enrichment program that provides comprehensive support to District of Columbia public middle and high school students to empower them to graduate from high school and succeed in college. ICP serves students who may have less exposure to college and/or are likely to be first in their families to pursue post-secondary education. ICP strives not only to educate students in the academic sense, but also to instill confidence and to build a desire for education in students by providing them with highly enriching social and cultural experiences.

During the program, students are exposed to rigorous course work via a carefully developed curriculum offered to students in Saturday Academy classes and Summer Institute on Georgetown University’s campus. This academic enrichment curriculum is enhanced by: 

• Academic tutoring and mentorship in coordination with the students’ schools
• Summer enrichment programs via a study abroad and residential college experience
• College exposure via tours and admissions sessions
• Assistance with test preparation and the college application process
• Facilitation of connections to other needed resources
• And other academic and personal counseling for students and their families to inspire a college-going culture

Capstone Programming

The Georgetown University Institute for College Preparation (ICP) offers dynamic capstone programming that bridges academic learning with immersive, real-world experiences. These opportunities are designed to deepen college readiness, foster personal growth, and expand students’ understanding of their place in the world.

Through activities such as college tours, residential summer institutes, and study abroad programs in countries like Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador, and Belize. Pre-College Scholars engage with diverse cultures, academic disciplines, and global perspectives. Each experience is intentionally crafted to promote intercultural awareness, self-confidence, and social responsibility.

Capstone highlights include:

• New York City Cultural Tour: Featuring a Broadway performance of The Lion King, a historic meal at Sylvia’s in Harlem, and curriculum-aligned explorations of performing arts, African American heritage, and civic engagement.
• Los Angeles Immersion: A deep dive into urban justice, sustainability, and American ideals through the lens of a city shaped by activism and diversity.
• Costa Rica Summer Abroad: Students explore genetics, ecology, and cultural history while traveling through Central America, with a focus on language, identity, and African diasporic influence.
• Outdoor Adventures: From skiing at Liberty Mountain to science-based camping and biking through Harper’s Ferry, students build teamwork, resilience, and leadership in nature.

These capstone experiences are more than enrichment—they’re invitations for students to reflect on their values, embrace their identities, and step into their roles as future college scholars and global citizens.

In Class Sessions:

ICP’s in-class sessions are held on Georgetown University’s campus, offering students early and meaningful exposure to college life. Through Saturday Academy during the academic year and the Summer Institute in June and July, students strengthen their skills in core subjects like English, Math, Spanish, and Science, along with engaging electives. Courses are led by old-faculty from nearby D.C. institutions, including Howard University, American University, UDC, and Catholic University, creating a dynamic learning experience with diverse academic perspectives.

Learning in university classrooms helps students feel at home in academic spaces, build confidence, and see college as part of their future—not just a goal. These sessions combine rigorous academics with real-world preparation for life after high school.