The Early College Scholars program allows eligible high school students to earn at least 15 hours of transferable college credit while completing the requirements for an Advanced Studies Diploma. The result is a more productive senior year and a substantial reduction in college tuition. Students earning a college degree in seven semesters instead of eight can save an average of $5,000 in expenses.
To qualify for the Early College Scholars program, a student must:
- Have a “B” average or better;
- Be pursuing an Advanced Studies Diploma; and
- Take and complete college-level course work (i.e., Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, or dual enrollment) that will earn at least 15 transferable college credits.
Early College Scholars are supported by the Virginia Virtual Advanced Placement School and the Commonwealth College Course Collaborative. The Virginia Virtual Advanced Placement School provides statewide access to college-level courses while the Commonwealth College Course Collaborative defines the subjects high school students can complete and receive college degree credit from participating public and private colleges and universities.
Participating students sign an Early College Scholars Agreement, which is also signed by the student's parents or guardians, principal, and school counselor. Students who meet the terms of the agreement are recognized as Early College Scholars and receive a certificate of recognition from the Governor.
Please contact the school counselor for additional information and registration.
Information on Virginia’s Early College Scholars program can be found at https://www.doe.virginia.gov/instruction/graduation/early_college_scholars/.