Competitive, inexpensive summer programs?

<p>I'm an incoming sophomore and I participated in a summer program at my local university (UChicago) and the best thing about was that it was all free if one was accepted. Are there any good programs that are free but with a competitive edge to them? If not, are there ones that are inexpensive, like 1,000 being the maximum cost? By the way, I'm 15 and will be turning 16 in July 2014. << I thought to include this since there are certain age requirements for some programs. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated! :)
By the way, I'm into political science, writing, and traveling.
I'm not that great at math and science, so programs like USAMO and Ross program are completely outta my league.</p>

<p>I’m looking for the same things. Check out NSLI-Y, Economics for Leaders (not free but inexpensive), CIEE South Korea, Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Summer Institute, Bill of Rights Constitutional Academy, and TASP. No idea if you fit into the age requirements but they’re worth a look.</p>

<p>Out of curiosity, what program did you do at UChicago?</p>

<p>I participated in the Startalk Arabic Program. Thank you for the suggestions, I really appreciate it! Good luck! :)</p>