High School Early Start Program

High school juniors and seniors have the opportunity to earn college credit through Rasmussen College’s Early Start Program.

The Early Start Program is a great way for high school students to experience college while still supported by high school staff and mentors, try a course that may not be offered at the high school, or explore a possible future career by taking an introductory course.

Contact a high school admissions representative at (888)5-RASMUSSEN for more information about our programs and how to enroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many classes and credits can a student take and earn through Early Start?
A: Seniors may take up to eight credits per quarter and juniors may take up to four credits per quarter without a tuition charge. A maximum of 24 credits per student can be earned through the Early Start Program.

Q: What are the student requirements for participation in the Early Start program?
A: Students must have a minimum cumulative high school grade point average of 2.00 out of a possible 4.00 and achieve a minimum score of 17 on the writing portion of the STEP assessment. To continue enrollment in the Early Start Program, students must maintain a minimum Rasmussen College cumulative grade point average of 2.25 out of 4.00.

Q: Are the Early Start courses accredited?
A: Yes. Rasmussen College has earned Regional Accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Q: Is the Early Start program the same as dual enrollment/post secondary?
A: Yes and No. This is an opportunity for students to earn college level credit outside of high school; however, each high school determines if Early Start courses can be applied toward high school credit.

Q: Are the credits earned through the Early Start program transferable to other colleges?
A: Students who elect to pursue their education at another academic institution will be issued a transcript from Rasmussen College; these credits may be transferable at the complete discretion of the receiving institution.

Q: How will students balance their high school coursework and Early Start classes?
A: Each student is required to identify an Early Start Mentor to provide support and help during the program. In addition to Rasmussen's student support services, our Admission Representatives will also conduct regular touch points to check on Early Start course progress.

Q: Will students need to use high school computers for Early Start classes?
A: Most technology courses require access to specialized hardware and software, which are available to students at Rasmussen College campuses; Early Start students electing to complete courses online will need to secure their own access to required hardware and software.

Q: What is the cost for students to participate in Early Start?
A: Tuition is FREE. Students must cover the cost of textbooks, supplies and technology requirements for each course. We can provide information about course specifics including: textbook prices, supplies, and technology requirements.