Overview
CPP is a four-year commitment that begins the summer after a student’s first year of high school and continues through their first year of college. Three Summer Academy experiences on WashU’s campus anchor the program (in their third year, scholars have the opportunity to earn WashU credit) and an array of weekend programs occur throughout the school year. Programming includes academic sessions focused on coding, scholarship and financial aid workshops, ACT test prep sessions, college enrichment trips, and local business tours. During their four years in the College Prep Program, students gain significant academic knowledge and experience, form bonds with their fellow scholars, and gain a greater understanding of college life.
Summer Academy
Summer Academy gives scholars an immersive experience to build on what they have learned during the academic year. Scholars take courses such as math and neuroscience, develop their writing with WashU’s Writing Center, and earn college credit in their third year, an essential milestone in their CPP journey. Equally important, Summer Academy emphasizes community building, with traditions like the newest cohort creating and presenting their I Am From poems at the close of the summer. Together, these experiences prepare scholars academically, professionally, and personally while fostering a sense of belonging.
Academic year programming
Academic year programming is held throughout the fall and spring semesters, offering scholars a combination of academic and enrichment sessions. These sessions are designed to prepare scholars for success in high school, college, and beyond. Academic sessions focus on business, arts, STEM, and humanities, and they include coding, entrepreneurship, robotics, and design thinking. Enrichment sessions provide scholars with personal and professional development, and they include essential skills for success, financial literacy, and mental health and wellness.
Pre-College Year mentorship model
In their third year, high school seniors enter the Pre-College Year, where they receive individualized support to prepare for the transition to higher education and beyond. Scholars meet monthly with their assigned CPP Mentor, who serves as a guide, cheerleader, and listening ear—encouraging both personal and academic growth. Support includes coaching on college search, applications, interviews, financial aid, and scholarships, as well as guidance in decision-making, personal development, and building confidence.