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High School Summer Scholars Program

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Program Overview

Through our High School Summer Scholars Program, students have the opportunity to enroll in courses for credit and study alongside undergraduates. Students select from a broad range of stimulating introductory courses in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and mathematics. Students may choose to enroll in one or two 3-unit courses as well as a selection of noncredit courses.

This program is ideal for students who want to earn college credit, challenge themselves academically and explore courses in a specific major or subject. 

High School Summer Scholars live on campus in one of our top-ranked, air-conditioned residence halls. In addition to course work, students participate in specialized college readiness, community, and academic success enrichment activities.

Learn more about our enrichment activities


Dates

The High School Summer Scholars Program is a five-week program from June 9-July 13, 2024.


Eligibility

To be eligible for the High School Summer Scholars Program students should:

  • Be a current junior in high school (graduating in 2025).
  • As an international student, have a TOEFL iBT score of at least 90 or an IELTS Academic score of at least 6.5. Additional guidelines for international students are available here.

We are looking for mature, academically motivated students enrolled in challenging curriculum which may include honors, advanced placement, and International Baccalaureate courses, if offered by their high schools. Students who are collaborative, intellectually curious, and creative thinkers thrive in our program.


Fees and Scholarships

The 2024 program fee for High School Summer Scholars is $7,785 for one credit course and $11,325 for two credit courses. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of WashU employees and returning students are eligible for a 10% discount. Additional details on fees, need-based scholarships, and discounts are available here.


Grades and Transcripts

At the conclusion of course work, participation in High School Summer Scholars Program will be recorded and grades earned become part of a student's record at WashU. Students may request an official transcript of grades earned to be sent to any school to which they are applying for undergraduate admission. Requests should be made through the Office of the University Registrar. Credit courses award a traditional letter grade (A, B, C, D, F).


Pre-Matriculation Credit

Courses enrolled through the High School Summer Scholars Program are considered pre-matriculation credit. Every university has its own pre-matriculation transfer credit policy, and we encourage students to do their research as they make future plans. For current guidelines on pre-matriculation credit at WashU, please review the Pre-Matriculation Units section of the WashU Bulletin.

If students intend to use credit earned through the High School Summer Scholars Program for high school graduation requirements, that must be arranged by the student with their high school. 


Acceptance and participation in High School Summer Scholars course work and activities does not imply or guarantee acceptance into a degree program at WashU. For questions about the undergraduate admission process, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.

Courses and Schedule

Courses are taught by WashU instructors from the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and mathematics. Course offerings rotate every summer.

View 2024 Course Details

How to Apply

In order to apply to the High School Summer Scholars Program, students must complete an online application, including short essays, and submit the following supplemental information:

  • $50 nonrefundable application fee
  • Transcript
  • Teacher recommendation
  • International applicants must send an official TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic score report.

We offer two application deadlines for the High School Summer Scholars Program:

  • Early Application Deadline - Complete your application and submit all supplemental information by March 1, 2024 at 11:59pm CT to receive a decision by March 5, 2024. If you would like to apply for a need-based scholarship, please fill out the scholarship application section of the application and submit your income documentation by this deadline as well.
  • Regular Application Deadline - Complete your application and submit all supplemental information by April 1, 2024 at 11:59pm CT to receive a decision by April 8, 2024. If you would like to apply for a need-based scholarship, please fill out the scholarship application section of the application and submit your income documentation.

Questions about applying? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page.

Start Your Application

 

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The Summer Scholars program has been the best experience of my life. Not only have the academics given me a fun challenge like never before, but the relationships I've built with my amazing peers and staff are some of the most meaningful I've ever had. This five-week journey is one I would happily take again.

―Ryanrising senior from Hazelwood, Missouri

Wondering about life on campus in the summer?

Explore Residential Life