Programs for High School Students
Young Scholars Program
The University of Pennsylvania's College of General Studies offers a special opportunity for academically exceptional local high school students to take college courses with Penn students and earn full college credit. Young Scholars can pursue their favorite discipline beyond the level offered in secondary schools, get a head start on their college requirements, or explore a brand new field that interests them.
The Young Scholars program is open to high school juniors and seniors. It is not designed for younger students or for students who have been admitted to Penn through the Early Decision option.
Our average applicant has:
- At least a 3.3 G.P.A..
- Scores in the 85th percentile or greater in all sections of their standardized tests (SAT, PSAT, ACT)
- Writing that shows both technical skill and intellectual depth
- Strong recommendations
- A variety of extracurricular interests
Young Scholars can choose from a variety of courses at the undergraduate level offered by the College of General Studies. Topics offered include anthropology, economics, English, math, philosophy, linguistics, psychology, and many more. We encourage students to select courses based upon their interests rather than upon requirements or anticipated majors. We find that the students who fare best in our program are those who use this opportunity to expand and explore.
Enrollment is subject to the approval of the program director and registration in a desired course is not guaranteed. For the list of courses available to Young Scholars, including complete course descriptions, and meeting times, please view our online course guide.Young Scholars are only permitted to take courses which appear when “The Young Scholars Program” is selected under the “Program” search option.
Students who do not attend a City of Philadelphia Public High School may be able to take courses during the day through the undergraduate College. Please note that special permissions and increased fees are associated with this option.
Enrollment in the Young Scholars Program is limited. Some courses may have educational prerequisites or require placement testing.
Admission to the Young Scholars Program does not constitute admission to a full-time program at the University of Pennsylvania.
All applicants must submit the following:
- Application form
- An official copy of your PSAT, SAT, or ACT score report (students who have not yet taken standardized tests may submit a third letter of recommendation)
- An official copy of your high school transcripts
- A personal résumé detailing your academic and extracurricular activities, achievements, and/or honors
- An essay of 300-500 words (describe one specific academic topic you have studied and explain why it interests you)
- Two letters of recommendation
Application Deadlines
July 1: Fall Semester Admissions Deadline, Decisions Posted in early August
November 1: Spring Semester Admissions Deadline, Decisions Posted in early December
The Young Scholars Program is selective and limited in size. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all application materials arrive by the deadline. Applications are not considered until all materials have been received.
Application Form
Tuition will not be charged for students who attend a City of Philadelphia Public High School. This offer is limited to one undergraduate level College of General Studies course per semester.
Students who are home-schooled, enrolled in private schools, or enrolled in public schools other than those officially under the jurisdiction of the School District of Philadelphia will be billed for tuition in the same manner as all other Non-Degree Undergraduate Students at the College of General Studies. The rate of tuition is based upon the number of course units taken and the division of the University in which they are taken. Please click here for up-to-date information on tuition and fees.
All students (regardless of school district) are responsible for any other fees associated with attending the College of General Studies. These fees may include books, laboratory fees, course materials, etc.