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Youth Programs
Immerse Into ASL
delve into deaf culture and history
This exciting, 24/7 American Sign Language (ASL) immersion program is designed for new signers who are at the beginner or intermediate level. This program caters to deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students entering 10th – 12th grade, motivated to learn ASL and immerse themselves in the deaf culture and history at Gallaudet, just minutes away from the nation’s capital. Hearing students are accepted if they pass our screening requirements and qualify as intermediate level or above signers.
Experience what it is like to be a student on the Gallaudet University campus.
Meet and learn from successful deaf professionals during seminars.
Improve your budding ASL skills with the help of teachers and staff.
Gain independence in communicating effectively with ASL.
Discover postsecondary and career opportunities in ASL.
Engage in self-discovery activities designed to help you develop leadership, teamwork, and self-confidence.
Embark on exciting field trips to visit ionic Washington, D.C. attractions.
Ride until you drop at Six Flags – one of America’s best amusement parks!
Hearing students must be an intermediate level or above signers.
Students are allowed to attend this program for up to two summers. No student will be allowed to return for a third summer.
You will need to submit an application online. All applicants must submit a YouTube video in ASL responding to two prompts:
Upon acceptance, you will receive login access to our portal, in which you will be able to make your payment and access important forms that we will need you to fill out, such as medical forms, transportation forms, participant agreements, and more.
You will also receive a participant handbook with details on program preparation. All forms and fees must be completed and submitted by May 1st.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) support varies by state. You may ask your VR counselor for financial assistance in registration fee or transportation to/from DC.
Vocational Rehabilitation counselors can request for a written report that obtains a student’s summary of their experience.
Ready to immerse into ASL? We got you!
Yes. If your child is traveling alone, we will provide transportation to and from the airport for those using Reagan National Airport (DCA). You will need to make other arrangements if using Washington Dulles (IAD) or Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). Our Youth Programs staff will meet your child at the baggage claim upon arrival and accompany them to the ticketing area when departing. Additional details are in the Camper Handbook.
The program fee covers program classes, workshops, activities, housing, meals, transportation, outings, recreation fees and a camp T-shirt. We do not cover airfare or travel costs to and from Washington, D.C.
Residence Life may provide visitors housing. The Kellogg Conference Hotel is available on campus. Kellogg Conference Hotel’s reservation number is (202) 651-6000.
Yes. We accept payment plans in installments. A minimum $100 deposit needs to be made immediately in order to secure your child’s spot. Full payment is due within about a month in order to guarantee your child’s spot in their program of choice. We will send an email to update you on the status of processed payments as well. Alternative payment plans may be discussed.
Yes, we do offer scholarship opportunities to summer camp participants. In order to be considered for a scholarship, you will need to email us a letter explaining why you should receive the scholarship as well as a copy of your recent tax forms. We provide scholarships only to deaf and hard-hearing students. If you would like to request a scholarship, please contact us.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) support varies by state. You may ask your VR counselor for financial assistance in camp registration fee or transportation to/from DC. You may use the justification letter with your VR counselor. Please contact us if you need further assistance obtaining the VR support.
Camp acceptance is on a rolling basis, and spots fill up quickly, so the sooner we receive your application, the better. Registration forms and payment are both due on May 1st.
Yes, for snacks in the evenings and for off-campus events such as the Six Flags outing. Campers will also be able to purchase snacks and Gallaudet attire at the campus bookstore.
Gallaudet University, the world’s only four-year liberal arts university serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students, serves as the educational, social, and political engine of Deaf America. The duty of the university to foster disagreement, debate, and civic engagement is embedded in its role as a higher education institution.
Summer Youth Camps
Edward Miner Gallaudet Memorial Building #112 & #111