This programme, organised by Pinnacle Examination Center (PEC), provides secondary school students with structured academic study in economics and business at Cornell University. The programme runs for 13 days on the Ithaca campus and includes foundation courses, an elective module, and team-based competitions.
The Cornell University Economics & Business Academic Programme is a 13-day residential course organised by Pinnacle Examination Center (PEC) for secondary school students in Year 10–13 (or international equivalent). The programme takes place at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York State, from 13 to 25 July 2026.
Participants engage in university-level academic content in economics, global business strategy, and data analytics. The programme combines structured seminars, an elective module, and two team-based business competitions. Students are accommodated in Cornell University residence halls and supervised by residential staff throughout the programme.
The programme is intended for students with a genuine interest in economics, business, or related fields who wish to develop analytical skills relevant to university study. No prior formal study in economics or business is required.
Structured academic seminars covering behavioural economics, global strategy, and analytical tools.
Two team-based capstone challenges: a business simulation and a pitch competition before a faculty panel.
Students live on campus in Cornell residence halls with 24/7 residential support at a 1:10 staff ratio.
Certificate of Completion and Official Academic Transcript issued upon satisfactory completion.
| Location | Cornell University, Ithaca, New York State, United States |
| Dates | 13 – 25 July 2026 |
| Duration | 13 days |
| Students | Year 10–13 (or international equivalent) |
| Capacity | Limited enrolment — small group format |
| Accommodation | Cornell University residence halls |
| Staff Ratio | Approximately 1:10 |
| Support | 24/7 residential mentors |
| Language | All instruction in English |
| Organiser | Pinnacle Examination Center (PEC) Auckland, New Zealand |
All students take two foundation courses and select one elective module. The programme concludes with two team-based business competitions that serve as capstone assessments.
All participants complete both foundation courses. These courses form the academic core of the programme.
Students who are currently studying in an English-medium school are not required to submit a separate English test score.
A school-issued letter confirming English as the language of instruction is acceptable.
For students who do not meet this condition, the following test scores may be submitted as supporting evidence:
Please note: Incomplete applications will not be processed. All required materials must be submitted before an application can be reviewed.
Contact Pinnacle Examination Center to express interest and request the application form and current programme information.
Prepare all required application materials as listed. Ensure all documents are complete before submission. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Submit the completed application and all supporting materials to PEC. The application will be reviewed upon receipt of all required documents.
Applicants who receive an offer must confirm acceptance and complete payment within the timeframe specified in the offer letter. Places are allocated on a rolling basis.
Enrolled students will receive further information from PEC regarding travel, packing, visa requirements (if applicable), and pre-programme preparation.
The programme is open to students currently enrolled in Year 10–13 (or international equivalent) at the time of application.
Applicants select their preferred elective module as part of the application process. Elective selection should be indicated on the application form. PEC will confirm elective placement prior to the programme start date.
Upon satisfactory completion of the programme, all participants receive formal documentation of their academic engagement. Documentation may be used to support future university applications or academic portfolios.
Issued to all students who satisfactorily complete the programme requirements, including the end-of-programme examination.
A formal record of the modules completed, skills developed, and assessments undertaken. The transcript documents the academic content of the programme.
Available to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and engagement throughout the programme. Availability is not guaranteed and is at the discretion of the programme faculty.
Certificates are awarded to top-performing teams in the Business Analysis Simulation and Business Pitch Competition.
The programme develops the following skills and competencies relevant to university study and professional contexts.
The following resources provide additional information about the programme experience. Contact PEC to request further details.
Images from previous iterations of the Cornell University Economics & Business programme are available on request. Contact PEC for access.
Contact PECTestimonials from students who have previously participated in the programme are available on request. Contact PEC for further details.
Contact PECContact PEC's New Zealand office for application forms, fee details, and current admissions information.
For programme enquiries, application forms, and admissions information, contact Pinnacle Examination Center's New Zealand office. Enquiries from both students and parents or guardians are welcome.
New Zealand Office
Enquiries are typically responded to within 1–2 business days. To enquire about applications, please include the student's name, current year group, and school when contacting PEC.
PEC aims to respond to all enquiries within 1–2 business days.