Program Overview
New for 2026! The Advanced Inquiry Institute is designed for students who seek deeper engagement with scholarly research and aim to elevate their abilities in critical analysis and advanced methodologies.
Over the course of this immersive program, you will engage in sophisticated inquiry, exploring how advanced research is conducted across various disciplines. You will refine your ability to formulate complex research questions, design robust methodologies, and critically evaluate intricate sources. Emphasis will be placed on advanced data analysis, nuanced interpretation, and the development of compelling, well-supported arguments.
You will have the unique opportunity to witness research in practice through experiential learning activities, including faculty presentations, tours of WashU research centers and institutes, and site visits to local institutions engaged in research. These immersive experiences will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the scholarly research process and its real-world applications.
This program is ideal for students with previous research experience who are eager to tackle more challenging material, explore interdisciplinary connections, and actively contribute to scholarly dialogue at a high level.
Dates
The Advanced Inquiry Institute is a two-week, residential program offered from July 12-25, 2026.
Eligibility
To be eligible to apply for the Advanced Inquiry Institute, you should:
- Be a current high school student graduating in 2029, 2028, or 2027.
- Have completed the Research Development Institute or possess equivalent experience in research. Prior completion of at least one research project, demonstrated through a paper, presentation, or other relevant academic course work, is preferred. We will also consider applicants who have completed an introductory research methods course.
We are looking for mature, academically motivated individuals enrolled in challenging curriculum which may include honors, advanced placement, and International Baccalaureate courses, if offered by their high schools. Individuals who are collaborative, intellectually curious, and creative thinkers thrive in our program.
Fees and Scholarships
The 2026 program fee for the Advanced Inquiry Institute is $3,985 which includes all program activities, housing, and meals. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of WashU employees and returning participants are eligible for a 10% discount. Visit Fees & Scholarships to learn more about fees, need-based scholarships, and discounts.
Grading and Evaluation
Our summer institutes are ideal for individuals who want to experience college-level curriculum without the pressure of a letter grade. Class sizes are small (typically between 15-20 participants) to ensure participants receive personalized feedback from instructors. These programs are designed for participants to ask questions, collaborate with peers, and consider new ideas.
Although summer institutes are noncredit, they are rigorous. Participants are evaluated based on attendance and engagement in class activities, completion of assignments, quality of work produced, as well as their ability to adhere to academic integrity standards and program policies. Noncredit programs do not issue a traditional letter grade (A, B, C, D, F). Instead, you will receive an "L" for successful completion/audit or a "Z" for unsuccessful completion/audit.
Because summer institutes are noncredit, no transferable credit is earned. At the end of the program, participants may request a transcript of noncredit course work. No certificates are issued for these programs.
Acceptance and participation in summer institute 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.
