What is the Early College High School Model?

Early College High Schools are small schools designed so that students can earn both a high school diploma and earn up to two years of college credit toward an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. Early college high schools have the potential to improve high school graduation rates and better prepare all students for high-skill careers by engaging them in a rigorous, college preparatory curriculum and compressing the number of years to a college degree.

Each early college high school develops a unique vision and a learning environment that represents community interests and student needs. However, all early college high schools share the following characteristics:

• Students have the opportunity to earn up to two years of transferable college credit while in high school.
• Mastery and competence are rewarded with enrollment in college-level courses and the opportunity to earn two years of college credit for free.
• The beginning years to a post-secondary degree are compressed.
• Schools provide academic and social supports that help students succeed in a challenging course of study.
• Learning takes place in small learning environments that demand rigorous, high-quality work and provide extensive support.
• The physical transition between high school and college is eliminated—and with it the need to apply for college and for financial aid during the last year of high school. After graduation many students continue to pursue a credential at the partner college.