Early College

Before you apply:

1. What are the benefits of Early College?
2. What is FERPA? And why is it important?
3. What are the different programs?
4. Can I take a THREE week course?
5. How do I apply?
6. How do I apply for an Early College course being taught at my high school?

1. High school students who enroll in early college courses are more likely to graduate high school, enroll in college, and earn a college degree. As a result, students are more prepared and successful in their chosen career path. 

For example:

• • Courses are tuition-free for students (up to 12 credits per academic year). Students are responsible for specific course fees and books in some EC programs. (please see our eligibility FAQ to determine if you are eligible for this)
  • Students can save up to $14,000 in tuition, fees, and other expenses (estimate is based on transferring up to 30 credits to UMaine).
  • Students can show college admissions officers that they are ready for more difficult coursework.
  • Students build a college transcript while still in high school. The college credits earned are transferable. While we hope students will attend one of Maine’s Public Universities or Community Colleges, these credits may be transferred to other colleges. Students will need to check with their institution about transferring credits when they enroll.
  • Early College programs can provide rigorous courses to enhance the high school curriculum.
  • Universities may offer a variety of courses not available at the high school. Some programs offer pathways to a career that can help students navigate through college to future employment, or explore interests before choosing a major.
  • Students who participate in Early College have better study skills, more academic confidence, and less anxiety about the transition to college.
  • Early College students who graduate from high school and enroll in a Maine Public University are more likely to enroll in college (persist) for a second year. 
  • Students who participate in Early College are less likely to need remedial courses in college. Remedial, or developmental courses, are courses for students who graduate from high school but are not yet ready for college. 
  • Students who enter college with Early College credits are more likely to earn a degree on time than students with no Early College credits.

2. FERPA is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act created by the federal government to protect student information.

Students may give their parents or other 3rd parties access to their information by completing the FERPA form and submitting it to us. Regardless of age, students enrolled in college courses are covered by federal FERPA law. Official FERPA Guidelines.

The federal Department of Education has put out a video to discuss how this works in detail.

3. We offer several different programs. Our programs are for high schools students that are Maine Residents, Non-Maine Residents (including international students) and for students different stages of school or in specific career pathways.

4. We do not recommend three-week courses for students in high school as the required work is approximately 40 hours a week. Please note that the three-week term is in an accelerated format compared to a typical 15-week college course. However, 11th and 12th-grade students may be eligible to enroll in a three-week summer course. Approval is given on a case-by-case basis. Contact kari.suderley@maine.edu for more information.

        5. To apply:

• • Choose your course from the semester listings.
  • Create your account at ExplorEC. (Remember to have your parent sign the application).
  • Apply for your course and meet with your school counselor to approve your application.

You can also view our step-by-step video.

          6. To apply for an EC course being taught at your high school:

• • After logging into your account at ExplorEC, navigate to Apply for Classes.
  • In Apply for Classes, navigate to the Class(es) in your High School tab.
  • Search for your concurrent enrollment course and apply for this. (Remember to have your parental consent signed and counselor approval).

You can also view our step-by-step video.