What is concurrent enrollment?
Concurrent enrollment allows high school students to take college courses while still enrolled in high school. Students earn both high school and college credits for these courses. Parents can find more information about the College Connections program in the Concurrent Enrollment Program Student and Parent Handbook.
What are the benefits of concurrent enrollment?
- Advanced Learning: Students are challenged with college-level coursework.
- Cost Savings: College credits earned in high school can reduce future college tuition.
- College Readiness: Helps students prepare academically for college.
How does my student enroll in concurrent enrollment courses?
Students must meet certain eligibility requirements, which may include a minimum GPA, standardized test scores, and approval from their high school counselor. Students will also need to complete an Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) application. Students can apply at eicc.edu/apply.
Are concurrent enrollment courses difference from regular high school courses?
Yes, concurrent enrollment courses are college-level courses taught by EICC-approved instructors. These courses follow the college syllabus, grading scale, and student expectations.
How much does concurrent enrollment cost?
Through Iowa legislation, the school district is responsible for the cost of enrollment for all concurrent courses, and textbooks. Students should check with their school district to confirm the course registration will count for high school credit. If a student wishes to take classes that are not contracted through the school district and college, then the student pays out of pocket costs for the course.
Will my student’s concurrent enrollment credits transfer to other colleges?
Most accredited colleges and universities accept concurrent enrollment credits from EICC, but it’s important to check with the specific institution your student plans to attend after high school to confirm credit transfer policies.
What if my student struggles with a concurrent enrollment course?
- Seek Help Early: Encourage your student to ask for help from their instructors, utilize tutoring services, and connect with their Concurrent Enrollment Advisor and/or College & Career Transition Counselor (CCTC).
- Communicate: Stay in contact with the Concurrent Enrollment Advisor and/or College & Career Transition Counselor and high school counselors for additional resources and support.
How do I know which Advanced Placement (AP) classes were taken for college credit?
AP classes are handled differently than dual college credit. To transfer your AP credits, you must log in to your College Board account and request your AP scores be sent to your college. Remember, only scores from three to five result in college credit. Make sure to check with the institution receiving your AP scores. Some universities accept only an AP score of four to five to receive credit. Visit with the receiving college or university for specific steps on AP class articulation.
Can my student participate in extra curricular activities while concurrently enrolled?
Yes, but it’s essential to balance academic and extracurricular commitments. Time management and prioritizing responsibilities are crucial for success in both areas. Concurrent courses are college classes, and it is up to the student to communicate with their instructor if they need to miss class. Lack of communication can result in grade penalties.
What type of courses are available through concurrent enrollment?
Course availability varies by school district but often includes general education classes like English, Math, and Science, as well as Career Technical Education elective courses that might align with a student’s interests and future career goals. Check the EICC Concurrent website for information on which classes are offered at your school district: eicc.edu/ConcurrentHS
Are concurrent enrollment courses available online?
Yes! Online concurrent courses are available through College Connections Individual Registration (CCIR). Talk with your student’s high school counselor for available online course options. EICC offers many online courses, providing flexibility for students to complete coursework around their high school schedules and other commitments.
When do I need to request my college transcripts?
You are able to request your EICC transcript at any point in the semester. It is important to note that final grades are usually available five to seven business days after the term ends. EICC offers students three processing options for your convenience:
- Now: Transcripts will include all classes as of the day your request is processed (final grades may not be available at the time of your request).
- After grades are posted: Transcripts will not be processed until approximately one week after the end of the current term.
- After degree is posted: Transcripts will not be processed until degree is posted, approximately 4-5 weeks after the term ends.
If you immediately require a transcript for college orientation/ registration, you are able to print an unofficial copy from your EICConnect account at no charge. For instructions, please contact your college advisor or high school counselor.
What is FERPA and how does it affect my access to my student’s educational records?
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. When a student begins attending a college or university, regardless of age, FERPA rights transfer from the parents to the student. This means that college students, including those concurrently enrolled, have the right to control who has access to their educational records. Faculty may not share how a student is progressing in class without written consent from the student.
As a parent, you will not have automatic access to your student’s college records without their written consent. However, your student can sign a FERPA release form allowing you access to their academic information. Have your student contact their Concurrent Enrollment Advisor and/or CCTC for more information on the record release form eicc.edu/FERPA.
Who should I contact for more information?
Your student’s high school counselor is a great resource for information about concurrent enrollment. Additionally, you can connect with the Concurrent Enrollment Advisor and/or College and Career Transition Counselor (CCTC) located in the high school.
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