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Future Scholars Academy

Shape Your Path

Program Overview

Are you curious about how your interests could translate into a college major? Do you want to build leadership skills and improve your teamwork? Are you looking for personalized guidance on your college application process? Then join us this spring for the Future Scholars Academy, a program designed to empower and inspire your educational journey. The Future Scholars Academy offers a comprehensive experience that balances academic discovery, college planning, and career exploration. Over the course of five days, you will engage in interactive modules, participate in live sessions, and connect with peers and mentors. You will complete a variety of assignments designed to enhance your learning and self-discovery including case study analysis, reflective writing exercises, and group discussions. Our goal is to help you uncover your interests, strengthen your skills, and prepare for success in college and beyond.

Dates

We offer two spring sessions of the Future Scholars Academy:

  • Session I: March 16-20, 2026
  • Session II: March 23-27. 2026

When registering, you will choose your preferred session. Content in both sessions is the same. This is an online program. An optional on campus session will be held the final day of the program. We do not provide housing for this program.

Eligibility

To be eligible for Future Scholars Academy individuals should:

  • Be a current high school student (graduating in 2027, 2028, or 2029).
  • Be at least 13 years old by the start of the program.
  • Have a minimum 3.5 weighted cumulative grade-point average on a 4.0 scale.

International applicants for whom English is a second language should provide documentation of their ability to complete coursework in English by providing an official TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Duolingo, or GATEWAY score report. Additional guidelines for international applicants are available here.

We are looking for mature, academically motivated individuals; collaborative, intellectually curious, and creative thinkers thrive in our program. 

Enrollment

Individuals interested in enrolling should submit a registration form, copy of their transcript, and signed parent/guardian liability waiver and release no later than March 2, 2026. Registration requests are reviewed on a rolling basis until a session fills. Space is limited, so we encourage you not to wait until the deadline to submit registration materials.

Fees & Scholarships

The 2026 program fee for Future Scholars Academy is $585. The program fee includes all activities and course materials. For attendees of the in-person workshop, lunch is also included. Need-based scholarship assistance is available. Children of WashU employees and returning students are eligible for a 10% discount. Visit Fees & Scholarships  for additional details on fees, need-based scholarships, and discounts. 

Grading and Evaluation

Participants are evaluated based on engagement in Canvas ("attendance"), completion of assignments by deadlines, and quality of work produced. Noncredit programs do not issue a traditional letter grade (A, B, C, D, F). Instead, participants will receive an "L" for successful completion/audit or a "Z" for unsuccessful completion/audit. Because the Future Scholars Academy is noncredit, no transferable credit is earned. At the end of the course, participants may request a transcript for noncredit course work. 

 

Program Schedule

Future Scholars Academy combines four days of online learning focused on academic discovery, college planning, and career exploration. The program concludes with an in-person day held on WashU's Danforth campus.

Monday: Welcome and Introduction (online)

Kick off the week with a live virtual welcome session and fun ice-breaker activities. Dive into academic exploration with engaging lessons on various college majors, pre-professional studies, and career paths.

Tuesday: Academic Exploration and Skill Development (online)

Enhance your critical thinking and problem-solving skills through interactive case studies and group discussions. Learn effective study habits and time management strategies in a live virtual workshop.

Wednesday: College Advising and Planning (online)

Gain insights into the college search, application process, and financial aid options. Participate in a live panel with current undergraduate students and join personalized advising breakout sessions.

Thursday: Character Development (online)

Explore essential character traits and uncover your own unique character strengths. Develop your public speaking and communication skills in an interactive workshop.

Friday: In-Person Workshop Day

Discover the vibrant and beautiful campus of WashU. Attend an informative session about WashU's academic programs, extracurricular activities, and unique opportunities. Enjoy lunch with undergraduate mentors. Participate in an empowering session focused on the importance of finding your sense of belonging in college. Learn strategies for building supportive communities and thriving in a collegiate environment. Engage in challenges and exercises that promote collaboration, communication, and problem-solving. Activities begin at 9:00am and conclude by 4:00pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of activities will I participate in online?

Participants will engage in interactive modules, live virtual sessions, quizzes, case study analyses, reflective writing exercises, and group discussions. These activities are designed to enhance learning, foster collaboration, and provide practical skills for future academic and personal success. Our live online sessions are scheduled to take place in Central Time (CT) from 10:00am-11:30am and 1:00-3:00pm.

What will the in-person workshop day include?

The in-person workshop day will feature a campus tour, an information session about WashU, a session on belonging in college, and team-building and leadership activities. There will be opportunities to interact with WashU undergraduates as well as experiential learning activities. This day is designed to provide a hands-on and immersive experience of college life.

What technology will I need to participate in the online activities?

You will need a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet, and access to a web browser. A webcam and microphone are also recommended for participating in live sessions and discussions.

What if I can’t attend the in-person workshop day of the Future Scholars Academy?

We understand that some students may not be able to attend the in-person workshop due to various commitments or circumstances. We offer alternative activities such as a virtual campus tour and additional online sessions to ensure you still benefit from the program. You may indicate on your registration form if you are unable to attend the in-person session.

Registration now open!

Submit your registration request