Frequently Asked Questions

1. Early College is a small learning community (similar to a team in middle school) where students work to earn their ICC/Core 30 (Indiana College Core) or their Associate’s Degree in General Studies. 
2. EC works to create a family-like environment where students are developed to be self-advocates, independent learners, cooperative group members, college-level thinkers, and effective written and verbal communicators.

Do you want to get a head start on college? The Indiana College Core allows high school students to earn 30 general education credits that can be transferred as a block to any public college or university in Indiana, as well as some private institutions. In other words, students who earn the College Core in high school may already be finished with their first year of college at a fraction of the cost. To learn more about the Indiana College Core and put together your plan, use My College Core (mycollegecore.org) and work closely with your school counselor.

1. To earn the ICC/Core 30 students complete 30 hours of college coursework in specific areas.
2. Once completed, the 30  hours transfer as a block and count for the equivalent courses at the receiving institution.
3. This typically equates to the first year of general required courses at the university level.
4. Students who receive this and attend a state university (in Indiana), by law, are guaranteed credit.  
5. Many private institutions, to keep pace with Indiana University and Purdue University, also accept credits. See this transfer chart for an example of how credits transfer. 

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FAQ Sheet

1. Students apply to EC through an online application.
2. When selecting students, we look at their NWEA and ISTEP scores.  We also look at middle school grades, attendance, and citizenship.
3. Students who apply should be on or above grade level, earning A’s and B’s in current middle school courses. They should be motivated students who complete their work on time and work well with other students.  
4. Students who have lower reading/writing levels will struggle in EC (due to the emphasis on reading and writing in all courses).

Diploma Requirements

Core Transfer Library

Core Transfer Poster

TransferIN

1. Yes and no. 
2. EC students can take honors math and honors science classes (which lead to AP math and AP science courses).
3. EC students CANNOT take honors English or honors history classes.  
1. Junior year EC students take weighted, dual credit English and history classes.
4. In grades 10-12, EC students can take some AP courses as an elective. 

1. This is a personal preference, and often it depends on the student’s goals and potential major/s.
2. This decision does NOT need to be made until junior year.

1. Yes!  Most of our students are involved in extracurricular activities. 
2. Colleges/workforce are looking for well-rounded people, so CGHS encourages all students to be involved!
3. The discipline and time management needed to be in music, clubs, athletics, and service relate well to the discipline needed to be successful in early college.

1. Yes and no.  
2.  EC students are in EC only classes for their core classes, world language (French/Spanish), and eventually dual credit elective classes.
3. The exception would be those students who take honors math or honors science.
4. EC students are mixed in with other students for their other elective courses (PE, art, music, FACS, PLTW, Biomed, etc.).

1. In short, no. 
2. HOWEVER...Students do have to pass Accuplacer (a placement test) and meet the grade requirement to enter into dual credit courses. 
3. Students must earn a “C” or better in the dual credit courses for them to be transferable to other institutions. Students who are struggling to meet these requirements can be placed on academic probation with supports in place to help the student achieve.
4. Students who struggle in English 9 and American Studies (Eng 10) will not be recommended for dual credit classes.

1. Students must be on or above grade level to be successful in our courses. 
2. Because of the rigor, those who are below grade level will struggle.

1. VU provides CGHS with two tutors--one English and one math.
2. These tutors work 20-25 hours a week in our Early College Learning Center.
3. Students may sign up to visit the tutors during study hall or STaR/AIM.
4. While the dual credit courses are their priority, they work with all EC students. 

1. Yes and no. 
2. EC students can take honors math and honors science classes (which lead to AP math and AP science courses).
3. EC students CANNOT take honors English or honors history classes.  
   1. Junior year EC students take weighted, dual credit English and history classes.
4. In grades 10-12, EC students can take some AP courses as an elective. 

1. The Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the most important document for determining if you’re eligible for financial aid — money to help you pay for education and training beyond high school. The easiest way to file the FAFSA is online at FAFSA.gov.
2. After you file your FAFSA, your college will be able to tell you which scholarships and grants you could receive as well as how much money you can borrow in federal loans. To find out more about the FAFSA, including what kinds of state financial aid is available, check out Learn More Indiana’s FAFSA guide for Hoosiers.
3. Contact Learn More Indiana and get connected with specialists who can answer your questions.