Applications being accepted for early college programs

Knox County students who have demonstrated that they are college-ready will soon have the opportunity to walk on campus and earn dual credit through the school district’s early college programs.

Applications for Union Collegiate Institute – Union College and Eastern Kentucky University’s early college programs are now being accepted from students who meet academic benchmarks and successfully complete the application process.   New students will join the first cohort of students that are already benefiting from the opportunity to earn college credit as high school students.

“We are excited to open the application process back up to all high school students, especially targeting those students that perhaps didn’t meet benchmarks the first time or were not aware of the benefits of participating in the program,” said Frank Shelton, coordinator for the college programs.

“Whether they want to participate in the EKU program, the Union program, or a mixture of both, we invite all qualifying students to submit an application for admission,” stated Shelton.

In addition to taking college classes, students that participate in the program receive the same benefits that traditional college students living on campus enjoy.  Students receive discounted or free admission to college events, may participate in campus activities, and are treated as VIPs during special campus visits throughout the year.

Knox County’s early college programs are made possible by partnerships between the Board of Education, Eastern Kentucky University and Union College.  The partnership allows students to take up to two college classes, tuition free, each semester.   Books and other class fees are also waived for the students.  Transportation is provided by the school district to the college campus each day.

A parent information night has been scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 6:30pm, at Eastern Kentucky University‘s campus in Corbin and on Tuesday, November 18, 6pm, at Union College in the Sharp Academic Center.

Applications for admission to Knox County’s early college programs are due on Monday, November 24.   Applications are available for download from the school district website and will also be available at each high school.

For more information please contact Frank Shelton, program coordinator, at (606)546-3157.

Eastern Kentucky University – Early College Application

Union Collegiate Institute – Union College – Early College Application