Program Overview
Immerse yourself in the world of higher education with our High School Summer Scholars Program, where you’ll enroll in undergraduate courses for college credit. Taught by WashU instructors from a wide array of campus disciplines and research fields—ranging from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and math—these courses are your gateway to academic growth and discovery.
Our introductory-level curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation for your future undergraduate studies. Customize your academic journey by choosing to enroll in one or two credit-bearing courses along with a variety of enriching noncredit offerings. Craft your own unique and transformative program experience, tailored to your interests and aspirations.
If you want to earn college credit, challenge yourself academically and explore courses in a specific major or subject this program is for you.
You may choose to live on campus in one of our top-ranked, air-conditioned residence halls or commute to campus. In addition to course work, you'll participate in specialized college readiness, community, and academic success enrichment activities.
Dates
The High School Summer Scholars Program is a five-week program from June 8-July 12, 2025.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the High School Summer Scholars Program you should:
- Be a current junior in high school (graduating in 2026).
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 fees for High School Summer Scholars are as follows:
- Commuter fees: $3,985 for one credit-bearing course; $7,645 for two credit-bearing courses
- Residential fees (includes housing and meals): $8,385 for one credit-bearing course; $11,785 for two credit-bearing courses
All fees include enrollment in one noncredit course. 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 using procedures provided by the Office of the University Registrar.
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.
