Faqs
Eligibility and Applying
How many students participate in the program?
Architecture Discovery Program has between 50 and 60 students participate each summer. Portfolio Plus has about 30 students.
I’m in 9th grade. Can I participate?
No, the program is for rising juniors and seniors in high school.
I’m a home school student, can I still apply?
Yes. Just make sure the recommendation letter is from an individual who can speak to your academic abilities, and not from your parent/guardian.
Do you offer an application fee wavier?
Yes. If the application fee presents a financial hardship, email courtney.cushard@wustl.edu and she can provide an application fee wavier.
Do you have a waitlist?
Yes, we will let students know if they are on the waitlist. Waitlist applicants will be notified the first week of May if there is a place in the program.
When will I get my admissions decision?
You can expect to get an admissions decision within one month of submitting your application. If your recommender delays in submitting their recommendation letter, this will delay your admission decision. An application is not complete without the recommendation letter.
Do you offer travel stipends?
Our scholarships do not include travel to and from the program.
Is the credit earned transferable?
Upon completion of for credit course work, students may request a transcript from WashU that will list their coursework and grades earned. 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.
Living on Campus
If I’m local, can I commute to the program?
Our program is an immersive experience, so all students, local, national and international live in the residence halls on campus. It creates an equitable and holistic experience and helps students bond. Housing and meals are included in the program fee.
I keep Kosher. Can the program accommodate me?
WashU has an excellent Kosher kitchen on campus, which is unfortunately closed in the summer. But don’t worry, we partner with the local Kosher deli to order and deliver meals for you throughout the program.
Do you provide chaperones from the airport?
We coordinate shuttles to and from the airport on the arrival day and departure day of the programs. More information will be shared close to the start of the program.
What is the supervision of Pre-College Students?
Living in the residence hall are our program assistants, current WashU students who provide academic advice, plan social activities, and ensure the rules and regulations of the program are followed. Our program assistants participate in online and in person training programs designed for working with youth. All staff have passed background checks and are CPR/First Aid certified. We also have a program supervisor to oversee the residential aspects of our programs and act as an emergency contact for students.
I take medications. Can someone at the program help me manage my medicines?
No, staff of the University cannot help administer or manage any medications. You are responsible for the management of your medications. If you cannot manage them on your own, then this may not be the right program for you at this time.
Participating in the Program
Are there classes or activities on evenings and weekends?
Yes, check the sample schedule above to see what kind of activities we have. Open studio in the evenings is required and necessary to keep up with assignments.
Can I participate in another program while I do ADP or Portfolio Plus?
No, students cannot be in another program, virtual or in person, while they do ADP or Portfolio Plus. Our Pre-College programs are very intensive and require a full time commitment for the length of the program.
Can I miss a few days of the program due to other commitments?
We strongly encourage students to commit to the full length of the program and to schedule other commitments when the program is not in session. Missing any part of the program can impact the student’s experience and academic performance.