Program Overview
High School Summer Launch is a one-week, noncredit program designed to challenge and inspire students through innovative lectures, workshops, and seminars. Through High School Summer Launch students gain a foundation for future study and academic exploration. Seminars take the confusion out of the college application process, while students create a personalized plan for choosing and applying to college. Interactive sessions allow for self-discovery as students learn to hone specific character skills such as growth mindset, curiosity, and kindness.
This program is ideal if you are looking for a general introduction to college life and academics and want a full pre-college experience in an accelerated format.
Dates
High School Summer Launch is a one-week program from July 20-26, 2025.
Eligibility
To be eligible for High School Summer Launch you should:
- Be a current freshman or sophomore in high school (graduating in 2027 or 2028).
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 2025 program fee for High School Summer Launch is $1,785 which includes all program activities, housing, and meals. 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.
Grading and Evaluation
High School Summer Launch is a noncredit program. Participants are evaluated based on attendance, completion of assignments by deadlines, quality of work produced, participation in discussions, as well as their ability to adhere to academic integrity standards and program policies. Because High School Summer Launch is noncredit, no transferable credit is earned. At the end of the program, participants will receive a transcript for the course indicating whether expectations were met.
Acceptance and participation in High School Summer Launch 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.
