Scholarships and financial aid awarded to qualified students

Students across the South Puget Sound entering ninth grade now have a new opportunity to attend Charles Wright Academy through a competitive scholarship essay contest.

APPLY BY FEB. 1

*Current CWA students may apply by emailing
essay to admissions@charleswright.org.

Eligible students with winning essays will be awarded scholarships and financial aid awards ranging from $1,000 to full tuition for all four years until graduation.

Charles Wright Academy awards more than $2.5 million in scholarships and financial aid annually to qualified students.

Why choose Charles Wright?

Charles Wright Academy is a diverse community that values and actively fosters a sense of belonging for every student. CWA is committed to experiential learning. All students participate in a robust 21st-century curriculum using hands-on and project-based learning, domestic and international travel experiences, service learning within the South Sound, and other unique and engaging activities. Students also can work one-on-one with a highly-qualified college counselor, who ensures every student finds their best fit school for college or university.

Learn more about Upper School at CWA

Who can apply?

New and current students entering ninth grade in the fall of 2023 are encouraged to apply.

My student already receives financial aid at CWA. Can we still apply for this new scholarship?

Yes, you can apply for this scholarship even if your student already receives financial aid, and the scholarship award may increase your total financial aid package. 

What kind of essay is required?

Students must submit an essay reflecting on the talents and passions they hope to contribute to Charles Wright Academy, and how they align with the school’s mission to “inspire active, joyful learning while nurturing and challenging our students to develop the character, creativity, and skills to successfully navigate the future with confidence.” 

How long should the essay be?

There is no minimum length requirement, but should demonstrate the student’s understanding of basic essay structure.

Two Charles Wright Academy Upper School students chat in the Commons
Two Charles Wright Academy students walk in front of the Language and Performing Arts Center
Charles Wright Academy Upper School friends give a thumbs up in art class

How to Apply

Current CWA Students

Current students should send their completed essays in PDF format to admission@charleswright.org.

Submit your essay today!

New-to-CWA students

New-to-CWA students and those interested in attending CWA must complete an application for admission alongside their essay contest submission.

Application for Admission

Complete the online application and submit the $40 application fee. Once the online application and fee are submitted, you will launch access to your online portal. You will see a checklist with more information about how to complete the following steps:

  • Family and Student Questionnaire
  • School records request and teacher references
  • Essay contest submission
  • Admission Assessment and Interview

We will administer admission assessments on January 7 at 1 p.m., January 19 at 1 p.m., or January 21 at 10 a.m.

Start your application today!


“Upper School at CWA was the best decision we ever made for our son. It’s been so fulfilling to watch him grow into a confident, self-aware adult, and we credit that in large part to the challenges and support he’s received from his teachers. The school is small enough that he doesn’t get lost in the crowd and can participate in any sport or activity he’s interested in, including some pretty amazing international trips that have inspired his future college plans. But more than anything, it’s the close-knit community and positive friendships that have made the biggest impact on our son. CWA expects a lot from its students, but they know they are supported and have the tools to meet any challenge.”

— Amy, Current Parent


Scholarship Application Timeline

February 1, 2023 Application Deadline
February 8, 2023 Notification Date
February 17, 2023 Commitment Date
APPLY BY FEB. 1

*Current CWA students may apply by emailing admissions@charleswright.org.

Come get to know us!

We highly encourage your family to tour CWA and look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful 107-acre campus. We invite you to attend our “Scholarship Day” on Saturday, January 21, to tour campus, meet faculty and leadership, receive application support, and more. Student essays, accompanied by a completed application for admission, are due by February 1, 2023, for consideration.

Please register for this event by emailing admissions@charleswright.org once you begin the scholarship application.

We also welcome families for an individual tour or to sign up for a group tour on January 6 at 10 a.m. or January 18 at 11 a.m. Please call (253) 620-8373 or email us to schedule your family’s tour, to sign up for an admission assessment and/or interview, or if you have any questions.

Interested in learning more about the Scholarship?

Contact the Charles Wright Academy Admission Office:

(253) 620-8373 

admissions@charleswright.org