High school juniors can now apply online for Christendom College’s highly anticipated “The Best Week Ever” summer program. Entering its 28th year in summer 2026, The Best Week Ever is the most popular, well-attended, and highly ranked pre-college summer program of its kind. With the majority of spots already filled, interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Christendom’s Admissions Office offered an Early Bird Application period in November, which received record interest. Based on the success of the Early Bird window and high volume of applications, most of the available spots across this year’s five one-week sessions are full. Waiting lists are already in place for some of the sessions, and only a limited number of spots remain for female applicants. Students interested in joining a waiting list are still encouraged to apply, as openings may occur in the time leading up to the start of the program.
During each weeklong session, participants in The Best Week Ever are immersed in Christendom’s academic, social, cultural, and spiritual life and experience the joy of an integrated Catholic life. Students take four classes taught by Christendom faculty, exploring subjects such as philosophy, theology, history, and literature. They also attend daily Mass and adoration and participate in a wide range of recreational activities, including canoeing on the Shenandoah River, hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, dodgeball, and a student talent show.
In addition, participants engage in a parliamentary-style debate and learn traditional contra and swing dancing. These experiences are rooted in authentic Catholic culture and provide students with opportunities to form lasting friendships.
“The week truly was one of the best weeks of my life,” shares Hadassah C. of Colorado, who attended The Best Week Ever last summer. “I loved being able to meet authentically Catholic young people and share so many adventures with them. The Best Week Ever showed me that Christ is truly the center of everything at Christendom. From Morning Prayer, to classes, to Mass, to dances, I was able to see Jesus as the core of every action. I saw that the people at Christendom are filled with a joy that is contagious to everyone and that they are unafraid to stand up for the True, the Good, and the Beautiful. The memories, friends, and experiences I had at The Best Week Ever will forever be a part of who I am. I am so grateful for the opportunity to go.”
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Summer Program Committee, and applicants can expect to receive a decision within two to three weeks. The all-inclusive cost of the Best Week Ever is $600, and financial aid is available. For session dates, testimonials, frequently asked questions, and application information, visit thebestweekever.com.