Early College Credits
Why wait for high school graduation to start your college classes? Montclair State University offers two pathways for high school students to earn transferable college credits, experience a university environment and save on future tuition.
Application
Get started on your application to enroll in one of Montclair’s Early College Programs — we’ll help you every step of the way.
What is an Early College Program?
An Early College Program is a unique pathway that allows academically ambitious high school students to begin their university journey early. At Montclair State University, our Early College programs (Early College Scholars Program and Dual Enrollment Program) enable you to take college courses alongside current university students, learning directly from esteemed professors. From the moment you set foot on our beautiful campus, you are welcomed and treated as a true member of the campus community while still in high school.
Who is Eligible for an Early College Program?
If you’re a rising high school junior or senior (age 16+), you can get a jump start on college while still in high school.
What are the Benefits of Enrolling in an Early College Program?
Enrolling as an Early College Scholar or Dual Enrollment Student offers a competitive edge for your future academic career.
Key benefits include:
- Transferable Credits: Get a head start on your degree by earning college credits that are widely transferable to Montclair and other institutions.
- Reduced Tuition Costs: Save significantly on the overall cost of a college education by completing core requirements at a discounted early college rate.
- Flexible Scheduling: Choose from fall, spring or summer terms with course lengths and times designed to complement your high school schedule.
- Authentic University Experience: Transition to college life with confidence by mastering university-level coursework and engaging in a diverse intellectual environment.
- Academic Support: Gain access to University resources, including Academic Success Coaching, to ensure you thrive in a rigorous higher education setting.
Academic Success Coaching
You won’t have to navigate this journey alone. As an Early College Program student, you’ll be assigned an Academic Success Coach to help mentor you, assist with the transition into college, and to help you develop important skills that will come in handy during college, such as time management, organization, study habits, and note taking.
Two options, endless possibilities
Early College Scholars Program
Build your own college experience before you even graduate high school.
If you’re the kind of student who is always looking for the next challenge, the Early College Scholars Program was built for you. This isn’t just about "extra homework"—it’s about taking your education into your own hands. You’ll step out of the high school bubble and into a vibrant university community where your voice and ideas matter.
Why you’ll love being a Scholar:
- Total Academic Freedom: Don’t be limited by your high school’s course catalog. Choose from a massive variety of undergraduate classes that interest you.
- The Real College Life: You aren’t in a high school version of a class. Your classes will be synchronous online, where you will be learning directly from Montclair professors, alongside fellow Montclair State University students.
- Earn While You Learn: Every class you pass is a head start on your degree. You’re earning transferable college credits that can save you months—or even years—of time and tuition later.
- Flexibility That Works for You: Whether you’re an athlete, a performer, or have a part-time job, we fit your life. Choose from on-campus or online courses during the Fall, Spring, or Summer.
The Details
- Course Load: You can enroll in up to two courses per term.
- Eligibility: Open to academically ambitious students ready for the rigor of university-level study.
- When: Join us year-round with flexible start dates and class times.
Dual Enrollment Program
Montclair State University’s Dual Enrollment Agreements provide an opportunity for high school students of junior and/or senior standing (16+) to earn college credit by taking college-level courses while still in high school. Our current partners for dual enrollment are:
- Belleville High School
- Bloomfield High School
- Clifton High School
- Essex County Schools of Technology (Essex County Donald M. Payne, Sr. School of Technology)
- Lakeland Regional High School
- Marion P. Thomas Charter School
- Montclair High School
- Morris County Vocational School District
- Passaic Valley Regional High School
- Paterson Charter School for Science & Technology
- Passaic Preparatory Academy
- Verona High School
Glad I Did It!
See how former Early College students were impacted by the program
"Earning college credits while still in high school was incredible. I learned time management, discipline and effective communication while gaining confidence for my future."
Blanca Gonzalez
Early College Scholars Application Dates & Deadlines
| Program | Application Opens | Deadline to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 Early College Scholars | October 3, 2025 | December 15, 2025 |
| Summer 2026 Early College Scholars | November 3, 2025 | July 1, 2026 |
| Fall 2026 Early College Scholars | January 5, 2026 | August 3, 2026 |
How to Apply to Early College Scholars Program
- Create an account on our online application portal.
- Upload your high school transcript (with a minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA)
- Upload optional application materials:
- Essay/Personal Statement (optional)
- Resume (optional)
- Letter of Recommendation (optional): A letter of recommendation is not required, but encouraged. It can be from a counselor or teacher (non-relative) and should be sent directly from the recommender to earlycollege@montclair.edu.