Excel Academies of Philadelphia

Open to students ages 15-21, Excel Academies provides the opportunity to graduate in 2.5 years or less, all with NO tuition or enrollment fees.

Whether you’re returning to school or looking for a setting that truly supports your growth, we provide a smaller, more personal learning environment—intensely focused on elevating social skills, emotional wellness, and academic success.

Why Excel Academies?

Excel Academies of Philadelphia are tuition-free, accelerated high schools for students ages 15–21 who are behind in credits. In our smaller, relationship-focused setting, students can earn up to 10 credits per year and graduate in 2.5 years or less.

We provide personalized support, counseling, and skill-building to help students grow emotionally and academically.

Excel Academy has three locations across Philadelphia where students feel safe, seen, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Accelerated Learning Pathway

Credit Recovery and Graduation Readiness

Students ages 15 to 21 who are over-age and/or under-credited, and need targeted academic recovery to stay on track for graduation.

  • Students significantly behind in credits
  • Learners at risk of not graduating with their peers

  • Individualized graduation plans
  • Credit recovery and standards-based instruction
  • Small group academic support
  • Career and post-secondary readiness activities

A typical Excel student may be 17-years-old and contemplating dropping out of school. They are far behind in credits due to multiple family issues that resulted in chronic absences during their early high school years. They may have a strong interest in technology and has mentioned studying computer science.

How SESI Supports Students: In the Accelerated Learning Pathway, our students engages in a structured curriculum designed to help them recover credits and achieve grade-level promotion. The program emphasizes credit acquisition, volunteer and community service, senior project portfolios, and post-secondary preparation. Through personalized academic plans and supportive counseling, they are empowered to take charge of their education, rebuild their confidence, and work towards graduation and future success.


Discover how we can support your child.

To learn more about our program, schedule a tour, or request enrollment materials – please complete the form and a member of our team will contact you shortly. Thank you for considering Excel Academies!

Events & Stories

  • Lashay R., an Excel Middle Years Academy alumna, speaks at the podium during her YESPhilly valedictorian graduation address.

    Excel Middle Years Academy Alumna Graduates as YESPhilly Valedictorian

    Lashay R., a former Excel Middle Years Academy (EMYA) student, recently graduated from YESPhilly as valedictorian of her high school…
    June 25, 2026
  • SESI students attend the 2026 Philadelphia high school graduation ceremony at Temple Performing Arts Center.

    245 Students Celebrate Philadelphia High School Graduation

    This June, 245 students from SESI schools across Philadelphia celebrated a significant milestone: earning their high school diplomas. Philadelphia High…
    June 18, 2026
  • A student rides a zip line during the May Day celebration at Lemon Hill Picnic Area.

    May Day Celebration Brings Philadelphia Students Together

    Students Gather for a Day of Recreation and Connection Students and staff from the Excel, Achieve, and Continuation Academies in…
    June 3, 2026