Youth Adventure Program
Explore Your Future at Texas A&M
The Youth Adventure Program (YAP) is a series of one-week courses for gifted and talented students, designed to encourage career exploration across a wide range of fields — from architecture to veterinary medicine.
Classes are taught by Texas A&M faculty and industry professionals who introduce key concepts, lead group discussions, and engage students in hands-on learning experiences.

Join Us This Summer
(Information and links for Summer 2025 programs)
Frequently-Asked Questions
Where is YAP held?
YAP campers are housed at Cambridge Hall, a private dormitory near Texas A&M with suite-style accommodations. YAP is a residential camp—campers stay all week.
When is YAP held?
YAP A: July 6–11, 2025 (rising 9th–12th graders)
- Attending Texas A&M University (12th only)
- Biotechnology (15+)
- Kinesiology & Sports Science (15+)
- Law School
- Oceanography & Meteorology
YAP B: July 13–18, 2025 (rising 7th–10th graders)
- Engineering Design: Spark!
- Entomology
- Performance Theatre
- Veterinary Medicine (13+)
- VizKids: Game Design
YAP C: July 20–25, 2025 (rising 9th–12th graders)
- BioFORCE (15+)
- Entrepreneurship
- Experimental Science (15+)
- Investigative Forensics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Smash Chemistry (15+)
- VizKids: Animation & Character Design
When is YAP check-in?
Check-in runs from 3:30–5:30 p.m. on each session’s start day. Families receive a 30-minute arrival window. Early check-in is not allowed.
How much does YAP cost?
Tuition: $1,299 (all sessions)
Includes housing, meals, materials, transport, instruction, t-shirt, and activities. Optional spending money may be brought.
Includes housing, meals, materials, transport, instruction, t-shirt, and activities. Optional spending money may be brought.
Payment: $399 deposit at registration. Remaining balance paid in 3 monthly installments (March–May).
Refunds: Full refunds until March 1. Later refunds only if a replacement is found.
Are scholarships available?
Yes! Need-based scholarships are available. Apply here. Reviews occur on the 25th of each month.
Who teaches YAP courses?
University professors and professionals teach YAP courses, blending lectures, discussion, and hands-on activities.
What is an average day like in YAP?
Classes: 9–11:30 a.m. and 1:30–3 p.m.
Activities:
Activities:
- Rec Center (swimming, sports)
- Scavenger hunts
- Evenings out
- Team competitions
How do I register for YAP?
Register online. Space is limited. Once the deposit is submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Waitlists are available if a class is full.
How do I get to YAP?
Most students are dropped off between 3:30–5:30 p.m. by a guardian. Contact us if your student will drive themselves.
Can air transportation and airport pickup be arranged?
Yes! Contact yap@tamu.edu to complete the required travel form.
Still have questions? Contact Us
- Director: Dr. Jay Woodward
- Recruiting Director: Matthew Bowen
- Email: yap@tamu.edu
- Phone: 979-845-1802