WashU Preview
WashU Preview provides students, especially those who might not be able to visit WashU independently, a chance to experience our diverse and supportive community.
This programming highlights opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds to find community at WashU (including but not limited to first-generation-to-college students, students from low-income families, students from rural areas, underrepresented students of color, and LGBTQIA+ students).
Applying to Preview
WashU Preview is an invitation-based program. To be considered, students should submit the WashU Preview Application by June 6, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CT.
The application will be available early next year!
Eligibility:
- Rising high school senior attending high school in the U.S. or its territories (graduating high school in 2026).
Application materials:
- Copy of your transcript showing completed coursework through junior year (unofficial copies – including screenshots – are accepted)
- List of confirmed or expected senior year coursework
- Resume or extracurricular/activities list
- A brief essay in response to prompt on application (250-word count)
- School profile (optional)
Summer 2025 WashU Preview Dates
Sunday, August 3, through Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Space is limited and transportation to/from campus will be provided for invited students.
Invited students will be notified by June 25, 2025.
stay on campus
Students will stay in our residence halls on the “South 40” area of campus.
The South 40 is like its own small town, complete with dining facilities, a fitness center, meeting rooms, intramural fields, basketball and sand volleyball courts, and more.
Rooms are furnished with a twin bed, dresser, desk and chair, and closet. Linen packages are provided which includes a pillow, a lightweight blanket, two sheets, two towels, two washcloths, and a bar of soap. Please see the Summer Housing of our website to learn more about what to bring for your stay at WashU.
Fun Facts
- The Summer 2025 theme is “The Power of Storytelling.”
- All students who apply to Preview will receive an application fee waiver!
- Preview applicants who decide to apply for admission to WashU will have the option of using their Preview application essay in their admissions application.
Preview has to be one of the most memorable and impactful experiences I have ever had. The resources WashU provides are unlike any school I have visited.
What to Expect After Preview
PreviewPals who apply and are admitted to WashU join a supportive community and gain access to resources tailored to help students from underrepresented backgrounds thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
Here are some of the opportunities and programs available to you after Preview:
- The PreviewPal Network, a community of Preview alumni currently attending WashU who are eager to support and guide you through your academic and personal endeavors.
- Community-building events, such as celebrations for first-generation students, cultural heritage events, and networking socials.
- The Bauer Leaders Academy, designed to foster personal growth and leadership development through mentorship and skill-building experiences.
- The Taylor Family Center for Student Success, a dedicated resource hub for first-generation and limited-income students offering holistic support and tailored programming.
- Mentorship opportunities with faculty, staff, and student organizations committed to empowering underrepresented students.
- Professional development workshops, such as career coaching, leadership training, and skills-building sessions.
- Financial literacy sessions to help navigate scholarships, budgeting, and financial aid resources.
Your journey with WashU begins at Preview, but the experiences and connections you gain will support you throughout your time on campus and beyond. As part of this vibrant and inclusive community, you’ll have the tools, networks, and opportunities to excel and lead!
FAQs
Any interested rising high school senior (graduating high school in 2026) may submit our WashU Preview application. However, to be considered for WashU Preview you must attend high school in the U.S. or its territories.
WashU is a place that values diversity of perspectives. We believe those perspectives come from a variety of experiences and identities. In 250 words or less, respond to one of the following prompts to help us understand “Who are you?” (250 words or less):
- WashU supports engagement in the St. Louis community by considering the university as “In St. Louis, For St. Louis.” What is a community you are a part of and your place or impact within it?
- WashU strives to know every undergraduate student “By Name & Story.” How have your life experiences shaped your story?
We expect to send invitations to WashU Preview by June 25, 2025. Students will be notified via email about their decision.
All invitees to WashU Preview will have their transportation costs fully covered. This includes flights, mileage reimbursement if applicable, shuttles to and from the airport, as well as lodging and meals during the event. We want to ensure that your experience at WashU Preview is as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible, so we take care of these essential aspects for you.
However, while we cover all necessary expenses, we do encourage students to bring some spending money for any personal purchases they may wish to make, such as gifts for themselves or their families. This allows attendees to fully engage in the experience and take home memorable souvenirs if they so desire.
If you have any further questions regarding expenses or any other aspect of WashU Preview, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to ensure your visit is both informative and comfortable.
Through workshops, seminars, and interactive sessions, attendees will learn practical strategies for leveraging the power of storytelling in their college admissions journey. Additionally, attendees will be inspired to always believe in themselves and to use their voices effectively in any space they inhabit
PreviewPals are students who attend WashU Preview! At WashU, we believe “Once a PreviewPal, always a PreviewPal.”
As a PreviewPal, you’ll leave the program with lifelong friends, supportive mentors across campus. Your journey with WashU starts here—and the connections you make will stay with you forever!
The community was so supportive and I truly felt seen and heard by the admissions officers. After this program, I can confidently say that WashU fosters a diverse and empowering environment, which is one of my most important factors when looking at colleges.
Meet the Preview Team
Questions?
Email admissions@washu.edu.