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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. 

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 11-July 15, 2023.


Eligibility

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

  • Be a current junior in high school (graduating in 2024).
  • As an international student, have a TOEFL score of at least 90. 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 2023 program fee for High School Summer Scholars is $7,345 for one course and $10,885 for two courses. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of Washington University 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 Washington University. 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 Washington University, please review the Pre-Matriculation Units section of the Washington University 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 Washington University. For questions about the undergraduate admission process, please contact Undergraduate Admissions.

Courses and Schedule

Courses are taught by Washington University instructors from across campus disciplines and research fields including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences and mathematics. Course offerings rotate every summer.

View 2023 Courses

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 score report.

The deadline to submit an application and all supplemental information is April 3, 2023 at 11:59pm CT.

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

Begin your application

 

I have found my passion in life. This is my dream and I feel supported here to be on the right path to success.

―Marcelarising senior from Curitiba, Brazil

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