Academy students tackle an intense curriculum in dedicated facilities with the latest learning materials and state-of-the-art equipment that complement each program's focus. Each of the U-46 high schools have an academy program with a unique focus to encourage the development of students' talents and interests. 

The focus areas for the academies are: Science, Engineering and Technology; International Baccalaureate (previously Gifted and Talented); Visual and Performing Arts; Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Action, and Design (LEAD) (previously World Language and International Studies) and Media & Digital Arts. Students enrolled in the academies are immersed in four or five periods daily in classes related to the academy's focus. The remainder of their studies are in the comprehensive programs where they take classes with students outside of the academies.
 
Informational fairs are held at the high schools each fall and a call for applications is extended to eighth-grade students. Admitted students are notified by the end of the calendar year.  

The five academies are:

• Bartlett High School --- Science, Engineering and Technology Academy
• Elgin High School --- International Baccalaureate (previously the Gifted and Talented Academy)
• Larkin High School --- Visual and Performing Arts Academy
• South Elgin High School --- BEACON Academy of Media & Digital Arts
• Streamwood High School --- Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Action, and Design (LEAD) (previously World Language and International Studies)