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Did you know that you could be working towards earning your college degree while still in high school? And even better, at no cost to you or your parents? There are a lot of different terms that colleges use to describe high school students taking college credit but no matter what you call it it’s an amazing deal here in Iowa.

Getting started

The first step in taking college credit classes in high school, is to talk with your counselor. They will be able to guide you in selecting and registering for the classes you are interested in. They can also help you contact the right people at Ellsworth Community College and Marshalltown Community College to get you on the right path. If you already know the area of education, you want to major in it’s important to choose the courses you need. The college academic advisors can help you.

Your high school counselor can also explain how college credit classes work and what you will need.

Knowing the terms

It’s important to be aware of the different terms associated with college credit. No matter how you phrase it, they all mean the same thing, you will be earning both high school and college credit. Here are some of the key terms you should know.

• Dual Credit
• Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP)
• College Credit

Benefits to starting college early

Starting your college education in high school will give you a jump start on your classes. Even better you can save thousands of dollars! Your local high school will pay for YOU to take classes at MCC and ECC! The only cost for you is your books and supplies!

Another great benefit to starting your college education early is exploring what you are interested in. If you are a creative person, try out an art class. Interested in working in athletics? Why not explore what athletic training is? Maybe you are interested in science. Try out one of the physics, chemistry, or biology classes. The options are endless, explore what interests you.

Taking college credits while in high school is also a great way to get used to what it will be like when you are taking college credits full time. You will learn the study habits you need to succeed. Become familiar with how college classes work and the demands that will be expected. It’s also a great way to see how much time and dedication is needed to manage your time.

Some of the college classes may be offered at your own high school but you have the option of taking your classes on campus as well. This is an opportunity to use the college facilities including computers, fitness centers, success centers and tutoring and so much more. Everything as a high school student is available to you at the college since you are ALSO a college student. You will also become familiar with academic advisors. These are people that will help make lots of aspects in college easier. They will help you register, answer financial aid questions and help you pick out the classes you need to be on the right path.

Make sure to talk with your high school counselor today to find out how YOU can become a high school student earning college credit through MCC and ECC!