The UW Accelerated (UWA) program offers students the opportunity to earn 45 UW credits, the equivalent of one full year of college, while still in high school.

Participants primarily earn UW credits by taking UW in the High School (UWHS) courses offered at their school. They can also earn UW credits by taking courses during UW Summer Quarter and by taking advantage of other credit opportunities offered through grant projects.

The UW Accelerated Program vs. UW in the High School

While all high school students can enroll in UW in the High School courses that are offered at their school and earn UW credits, each year the UW will admit a select group of students into the UW Accelerated program. Students do not have to apply to enroll in UWHS; they will, however, have to apply if they want to be a part of the UWA program.

Special Features of the UW Accelerated Program

In addition to taking UW in the High School courses and establishing a UW transcript, UW Accelerated program students receive the following special privileges:

• Direct access to UW advising and admissions staff to increase readiness for success in higher education. A UW liaison is also available to help participants navigate and connect with campus resources.
• The opportunity to develop a stronger application for admission to the UW built on a proven record of success in UW coursework.
• Invitations to events specifically designed for UWA students, covering topics such as applying to UW and planning for your future in higher education and the workforce.
• A UW Certificate upon completing the program.

Program Eligibility

High school students can apply to participate in the UW Accelerated program if their school district is a partner in the program. Currently the program is being offered by the Kent School District.

The program is open to Kent District students who are currently in the 9th, 10th, or 11th grade and who have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. Students who have taken UW in the High School courses in the past or who plan on taking several UWHS courses are encouraged to apply.

The UW Accelerated program is currently closed to new applications. If you are a Kent School District student and would like to be added to an interest list for notification of the next application cycle, please email earlygrad@pce.uw.edu.

UWA Frequently Asked Questions [PDF]