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Thank you for your interest in our programs!

We offer a variety of program options so you can choose the experience that best fits your academic goals and schedule.

Welcome to Arts & Sciences Pre-College Programs!

Attending a pre-college program is a great way to study a favorite subject, discover new passions, and prepare for college life. Through our Arts & Sciences Pre-College Programs you will experience undergraduate-level curriculum, develop essential college readiness skills, and build a community of peers from around the world.

Our website is the best place to find information about our programs and the application process. We've collected a few important resources for you on this web page, but we encourage you to explore our entire site and share it with your family and friends.

Three students walking along a brick path outside of Brookings Hall on WashU's campus.

If you've just discovered WashU and the College of Arts & Sciences, we recommend starting with our About A&S Pre-College Programs web page. You'll learn about our mission, goals, students, and activities as well as read first-hand accounts from participants about their program experiences.

When you're ready, you can start exploring our program options for middle and high school students. Credit and noncredit as well as commuter, residential, and online programs are available. You can choose to study with us during the summer or the academic year.

If at any point you have questions, please don't hesitate to contact our pre-college team at precollege@wustl.edu.

2027 Application Dates

Select a date to view details for our academic year and summer programs.

November 2

Registration for 2027 spring programs opens. Spring programs include Early College Scholars Program (deadline December 28), Exploration Courses (deadline January 11), and Future Scholars Academy (deadline February 8). You can find links to applications on the respective program web pages.

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December 1

Applications for 2027 summer programs open on our website. Summer programs include High School Summer Scholars Program, High School Summer Institutes, High School Summer Launch, High School Summer Kickstart, and Middle School Summer Challenge. You can find links to applications on the respective program web pages. Deadline for applications is April 1.

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February 8

Registration for online summer Exploration Courses opens. Course offerings rotate each summer. Deadline to register is April 22.

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July 5

Registration for fall Early College Scholars Program opens. This program is open to current juniors and seniors from the St. Louis area. Deadline to register is August 9.

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2027 Spring Programs

Pathways to Learning and Possibility: An Introduction to College, Career, and Life Exploration

Inspired by the liberal arts, this online course creates space to reflect on identity, purpose, and direction while building a clearer understanding of personal strengths and values. There is no fee to enroll. Registration opens November 2!

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Future Scholars Academy: Skills for College Success

This online course is designed for high school students who want to build the habits, skills, and confidence needed to thrive in college. There is no fee to enroll. Registration opens November 2!

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Exploration Courses: Experience WashU from Home

Through our online Exploration Courses, you are immersed in collegiate study with pre-college peers from around the world. Registration opens November 2!

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Early College Scholars Program: Advance Your Knowledge

Through our Early College Scholars Program, St. Louis area students have the opportunity to enroll in courses for credit and study alongside undergraduates at WashU. Registration opens November 2!

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Have questions about our programs?

We have answers!

We've collected our most frequently asked questions about our programs, application process, scholarships, and residential life in one place. Take a moment to review these questions and responses to better prepare yourself to apply and attend our programs.

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Your Summer, Your Story

Discover how pre-college students turned a simple passport into a campus-wide challenge, a memory book, and a guide to making the most of their time on campus.

The Summer Scholars program has been the best experience of my life. Not only have the academics given me a fun challenge like never before, but the relationships I've built with my amazing peers and staff are some of the most meaningful I've ever had. This five-week journey is one I would happily take again.

― Ryan rising senior from Hazelwood, Missouri