Programs Overview

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WCATY offers an array of day and residential precollege academic summer programs for students in Grades 1-12. Our classes provide ongoing engagement and academic challenges in a broad spectrum of disciplines.

Residential (Overnight) Programs on campus

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Accelerated Learning Program (ALP)

Grades 9-12 | Residential

  • An intense, three-week academic camp for gifted high school students
  • 105 hours of college level challenge
  • A safe and friendly community to geek out
  • All-inclusive residential life experience on the UW–Madison campus
  • Cost:
    • Residential: $2,800
    • Commuter: $1,900
    • International participant: $3,450
    • Scholarships available

Learn about ALP

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Summer Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP)

Grades 7-8 | Residential

  • Two-week academic camp for upper-middle school students
  • Accelerated curriculum and head start to high school
  • A place to belong and make lasting friendships
  • Engaging residential atmosphere for social and emotional growth
  • Cost:
    • Residential: $1,900
    • Commuter: $1,200
    • International participant: $2,300
    • Scholarships available

Learn about STEP

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Young Students Summer Program (YSSP)

Grades 4-6 | Residential

  • Early academic camp experience for elementary students
  • Week-long focus on single subject
  • Exposure to new disciplines
  • Structured and safe residential atmosphere
  • Cost:
    • Residential: $970
    • Commuter: $650
    • Scholarships available

Learn about YSSP

Commuter (Day) Programs on Campus

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Precollege Academic Campus Experience (PACE)

Grades 5-8 | Day Program

  • Academic camp students in grades 5-8
  • Academic enrichment
  • Head start to high school
  • Campus exploration
  • 25 hours of instructional time
  • Cost:
    • $420, plus $30 application fee
    • Scholarships available

Learn about PACE

Growing Early Minds Logo

Growing Early Minds (GEM)

Grades 1-4 | Day Program

  • Exploration program for students in grades 1-4
  • Winter and summer sessions
  • Focus on concepts to enhance curiosity and imagination
  • 12+ hours of in-person instruction
  • Incorporation of social/emotional curriculum
  • Cost:
    • $222, plus $30 application fee
    • Additional, optional cost for afternoon activities
    • Scholarships available

Learn about GEM