Summer Language Program
Summer Language Program
June 15-August 6, 2026 | Online
The Summer Language Program (SLP) is an eight-week, online intensive language study program designed specifically for the curriculum in theological and religious studies taught with a focus on translation and reading comprehension in a foreign language.
Designed to support the HDS curriculum, HDS students may count their initial enrollment in SLP toward the course requirements. Students from other Harvard schools, universities, and colleges may participate in the Summer Language Program. Learn more about program eligibility and how to apply.
Post-Application Period Availability
Thank you for your interest in the SLP 2026. The application period has ended, and the application portal was closed. Should you still wish to join a language course, please write to slp@hds.harvard.edu to inquire about whether there are any slots available and if you could still join us for the start of the SLP on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Need to Cancel Participation?
Applicants will be notified of their course status by May 26, 2026. If you already enrolled and were admitted to the SLP but have to cancel your participation for the SLP 2026, please be sure to fill out this form.
Languages Offered
The following list reflects typical courses offered during the Summer Language Program. Please refer to the SLP Courses page for information on course prerequisites and 2026 offerings.
- Arabic (Classical)
- French
- German
- Elementary Greek (New Testament)
- Intermediate Greek (New Testament)
- Elementary Hebrew (Biblical)
- Intermediate Hebrew (Biblical) [Note: this course is cancelled for SLP 2026. It will continue during SLP 2027.]
- Latin (Christian)
- Pali
- Spanish
In addition some language classes are offered on alternate years.
- Coptic [Note: this course is cancelled for SLP 2026. It will continue during SLP 2028.]
- Syriac (offered in 2027)
Learning Outcomes
- Develop linguistic and translation skills needed for academic research in religious and historical text and in preparation for language qualifying exams
- Strengthen language proficiency to engage directly with primary and original texts rather than relying on translations
- Learn advanced research skills through reading-focused language, translation training, and comprehension
- Engage with an intellectually stimulating community of learners from Harvard and beyond
Cost of Attending
The tuition and fees for the 2026 Summer Language Program are:
- Full tuition: $5,800
- Reduced tuition: $2,600
- Program fee: $500
- Tuition for auditing: $2,600
For descriptions of tuition categories and payment deadlines, please see the SLP Tuition & Fees page
Summer language study enriches the students' ongoing coursework at HDS and elsewhere, and grounds them for future work in academia and ministry.
Important SLP Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
Monday, June 15 | First day of SLP classes. |
Friday, June 19 | Juneteenth (holiday): no classes or sections; all HDS and University offices and libraries are closed. |
On or by Monday, June 22 | Withdrawal from the program: 100 percent refund. If you already enrolled and were admitted to the SLP but have to cancel your participation for the SLP 2026, please be sure to fill out this form. |
Between Tuesday, June 23, and Friday, June 26 | Withdrawal from the program: 50% refund. To cancel your participation in the SLP 2026, please be sure to fill out this form. |
After Friday, June 26 | Withdrawal from the program: no refund. To cancel your participation in the SLP 2026, please be sure to fill out this form. |
Friday, July 3 | No classes and/or sections; all HDS and Harvard University offices and libraries are closed in observance of July Fourth/Independence Day on Saturday, July 4. |
Thursday, August 6 | SLP final exams. |