Unlock your potential with American University's (AU) High School Summer Scholars program! Immerse yourself in a dynamic world of learning through one-credit online courses. Covering diverse topics such as international diplomacy, law, psychology, and neuroscience, this program provides a stimulating and personalized college-level learning experience. Take the leap, and enroll in an AU Summer Scholars course for an unforgettable journey of discovery!
American University’s (AU) High School Summer Scholars program offers rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors the chance to deepen their interests through online, one-credit college courses. Over four weeks, students can engage with coursework at times that fit their schedules, providing a balance between academic growth and their other commitments. Under the guidance of expert faculty, participants will explore new fields of knowledge sparking their intellectual curiosity and passion for learning.
Asynchronous Format: The AU credit course is taught online in a self-paced, asynchronous format, allowing flexibility in completing reading and writing assignments. Instructional content may include pre-recorded lectures, podcasts, documentaries, and faculty-led discussion boards. AU faculty remain involved and accessible to students during the course via Canvas and office hours conducted using Zoom or Skype.
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Academic Expectations: Students will be assigned reading and writing assignments appropriate for a one-credit college-level course. Although the assignments will vary by instructor and topic, students should understand that each course will require a minimum of five to ten hours per week, inclusive of watching pre-recorded lectures and assigned videos, participating in online discussion boards, and completing course readings and writing assignments. Students are expected to observe assignment deadlines and submit their work via AU’s Canvas platform.
How to Apply: To enroll in the AU Summer Scholars program, visit the Apply Now and follow the application directions. Students should email hsss@american.edu if they seek permission to enroll in more than one course.
AU Account Set-Up: Once a student is approved, a $100 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve their spot. After the deposit is received, AU sends detailed instructions for creating an AU user account. Students must create their accounts promptly to avoid delays in accessing their courses. Instructions for accessing courses via Canvas will be emailed in mid-May.
Application Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply early to secure your spot. Be sure to submit your application by one of the following deadlines:
- January 26, 2025 (Priority consideration for early applicants)
- March 16, 2025 (Regular consideration deadline)
- May 18, 2025 (Final deadline – limited spots may be available)
Questions: Please feel free to email the High School Summer Scholars team at hsss@american.edu or by phone at (202) 885-2442.
Tuition: Tuition is $1,004 per course, a significant discount from AU’s standard undergraduate tuition rate.
Course Dates: Courses are offered over two sessions during the 2025 summer.
- Session I: June 16 – July 11, 2025
- Session II: June 30 – July 18, 2025.
Course Selection: Students should select the course that best suits their interests. Because the nature of instruction is asynchronous and there are no live sessions, it is possible to enroll in more than one course. See the AU High School Summer Scholars website for specific course offerings.
NOTE: To enroll in more than one course, students must obtain program permission by emailing hsss@american.edu.
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