WHAT IS EARLY COLLEGE ACCESS?

Anne Arundel County Public School Schools (AACPS) and Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) are joint sponsors of the Early College Access Programs (ECAP), also referred to as Dual Enrollment, which includes Dual Credit and Non-Dual Credit programs. ECAP is designed to allow authorized high school students to explore college level coursework in a variety of academic areas which align to a college degree. This also includes, any students that are interested in a non-credit career certificate or license program or non-credit courses that are a part of certificate programs related to a schools signature program are also included. This college level coursework can complete the academic day for approved high school students who are progressing toward high school graduation or provide the opportunity to study subject matter that is of interest to the student more broadly. 

BENEFITS FOR THE STUDENTS:

• Research shows that students who participate in dual enrollment programs are more likely to graduate and continue into completion of studies.

• No cost for approved students who meet enrollment requirements.

• Provides an introduction to higher education for future college and career students.

• Courses may be offered virtually or in person on AACC Campuses.

• Gain confidence, good academic habits, time management and other skills.

• Access to community college facilities including the library, student resource center, and counseling.

EARLY COLLEGE ACCESS PROGRAM PURPOSE:

Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) and Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) have partnered to provide Dual Enrollment opportunities to college and career ready students at all high schools. 

Dual Enrollment opportunities allow AACPS college and career ready high school students to take college courses during the academic school year in grades 11 and 12 who meet program requirements.

AACC COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

For a complete list of AACC Course Descriptions, please visit https://www.aacc.edu/programs-and-courses/   

GETTING STARTED:

1. Complete Anne Arundel Community College Application (Printable Directions)

2. Complete the Early College Access Program  Application (Printable Directions) and receive principal approval.
   
   Note: Finalized forms will be returned to students approximately 10-workdays after submission.
   
   Note: Approval must occur prior to registration or funds will not be provided

3. Request Official Transcript from AACPS Registrar at their home school.

4. Request SAT/ACT scores from the College Board or ACT.  Students that need to take the Accuplacer must schedule appointment at the Testing Center.  https://www.aacc.edu/resources/academic-services/testing/

5. Submit completed Early College Access Program Application to the AACC Cashiers Office at cashiersoffice@aacc.edu. This form indicates that you can register for classes at AACC without paying tuition, fees and for required instructional materials.

6. Submit your official transcript, and SAT/ACT/AP results to the AACC Office of Records and Registration at records@aacc.edu.

7. Contact your admission officer to select courses and register for classes.  

Students enrolled in dual enrollment courses are eligible for student support services, including students with disabilities.  To apply for these services, students must contact Disability Support Services (DSS) . It is important to note that academic accommodations for college classes differ from those offered in high school classes.

Do you have Questions? Please visit our FAQ page here.