Through the UW in the High School (UWHS) program, high school students can complete University of Washington courses — and earn UW credit — in their own classrooms with their own teachers. Students and teachers use UW curriculum, activities, texts, tests, and grading scales. Students earn a final grade over time; a grade does not depend on one exam. Students receive recognition for their UW work at most public institutions and many private ones.

The program gives students a chance to test their readiness for higher education in a familiar environment. The program also can help strengthen upper-division high school offerings, establishing a collaborative relationship between the UW and high schools.