Early College

4 Ways to Take College Classes in High School

Dual Enrollment

Dive into the college experience. Whether it's online or in-person, you choose! Take a KCC college class while you are still in high school.

Dual Credit

Take college-level classes in your high school and earn credits for both high school AND college. You're doubling up without even leaving your school. No cost to students. Note: Not offered at all high schools.

Take all your classes at KCC for up to two years! You'll still rock your school sports, clubs, dances and all that. You can graduate from high school and have one or two years of college all wrapped up! Note: Not offered at all high schools.

Advanced Placement

Take AP courses at your high school and possibly earn college credit and placement. Talk with your high school guidance counselor to see what AP courses are available at your school. AP exam testing fees are about $98 per exam and are determined by College Board.

Timing and Costs

KCC classes begin in the Fall (August) and Spring (January) semesters. Dual Credit is offered at no cost to students. Dual Enrollment and Early College Program tuition and book costs may be discounted or paid for by your high school.

Why Choose KCC?

Build Up College Credit

Save time and money when you start banking college credits now. You'll speed up your degree later.

Add Confidence

As a KCC student, you'll have access to higher level coursework. You can gain confidence and know that you'll thrive in your next college chapter.

Get Plenty of Support

You'll be welcomed at KCC. Guidance and assistance are available at every step.

What's Next

Talk It Over

Your high school guidance counselor can help you determine what classes and programs are offered at your high school and what courses are a good fit for you.

Apply

Complete KCC’s admissions application. If you’re joining the Early College Program, complete the paperwork with your high school before the March deadline.

Register

Meet with a KCC advisor to register for KCC classes. Bring your ACT or SAT scores to your appointment.

What Our Students Say

“ I had an excellent time gaining independence & becoming more confident in advocating for not only for myself but my education. I was also able to earn 26 course credits for college while still participating in my high school extra curriculars & getting that high school experience. ”

— Aria Wordlaw, Kankakee High School Class of 2022, now attending the University of Illinois

“ Choosing to participate in the Early College Program at KCC has been one of the best decisions I've made. I've spent my senior year of high school at college and I do not regret it one bit. Not only have I been challenged academically but I have also gained a sense of independence that will benefit me in whatever path I choose to follow. The experience you gain from this program will make that transition from high school to college a lot easier- you gain more confidence in your abilities and learn to advocate for yourself. ”

— Bianca Varela-Canales, Kankakee High School

“ I feel doing early college was the best decision I could have made for my senior year. I have learned what I want in my future college & important skills to make college less stressful & difficult. ”

— Caleb Meister, 2022-23

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