In 2011, the Houston Independent School District opened the Young Women's College Preparatory Academy in partnership with the Young Women’s Preparatory Network (formerly the Foundation for the Education of Young Women). The Young Women’s Preparatory Network has opened eight other schools in Texas that are recognized as offering the most distinctive high school leadership programs in the nation. The YWCPA campus is located at 1906 Cleburne, near the Texas Medical Center, the Museum District, the University of Houston, Texas Southern University, and Rice University.

There is no better way to learn than by doing. At the Young Women's College Preparatory Academy, our students are engaged in rigorous courses at the Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) and Advanced Placement (AP) levels. Our Advanced Placement Program prepares our high school students for postsecondary academic success while allowing them to earn college credit before graduation.

AP students have the following advantages over others:

• Impress College Admission Counselors
• Develop College-Level Academic Skills
• Save Money
• Work Towards a Degree
• Take More Elective Classes in College
• Graduate with a Higher Grade Point Average

In addition to its standard curriculum, YWCPA offers students STEM-focused opportunities through a partnership with Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) in order to present multidisciplinary advanced academic learning experience in science, mathematics and the emerging technology concepts they need to pursue degrees in engineering, geology, geophysics and global energy management.

Students enjoy the benefits of learning in an environment where all adults are focused on preparing them for success in college and beyond. While teachers provide academic preparation and mentorship, the administration provide guidance and support in preparation for attending institutions of higher education beginning in sixth grade. Each student is introduced to an array of college choices nationwide, taken on campus tours and offered specialized career-strand courses that best match their intellectual strengths and interests. The students have individualized assistance as they navigate the college application process, the financial aid application process, and the college coursework selection process.

Students enjoy the benefits of learning in an environment where all adults are focused on preparing them for success in college and beyond. While teachers provide academic preparation and mentorship, administration provides guidance and support in preparation for attending institutions of higher education beginning in sixth grade.

Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy opened with grades 6 and 9.  In 2012, the campus added grades 7 and 10, grades 8 and 11 were added in 2013, and grade 12 was added in 2014.  In May 2015, YWCPA graduated its first class of seniors. These 44 young women received over $6 million in academic and merit scholarships and awards; and, were accepted to over 53 different colleges and universities.