Early College Application Deadlines

The deadline for course application is always one week prior to the course start date.

Summer 2026 Regular Semester Deadline is May 11th.

Fall 2026 Regular Semester Deadline for On-Campus/Online is August 24th.

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NACEP accredited program seal

The University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) Early College Program is proud to be the first accredited Concurrent Enrollment program in Maine by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP). NACEP is the only accrediting organization in the country for these programs, ensuring rigorous and consistent college-level courses while still in high school.

Through its 16 quality standards and multi-year application and review process for Concurrent Enrollment programs (including a 2-year program evaluation and 1-year independent peer review process), NACEP accreditation recognizes programs that demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence, strong partnerships, qualified instructors, and meaningful support for students.

For UMA Early College students, this means you are participating in a nationally recognized program built on best practices, designed to provide a true college experience while still in high school, with a stronger likelihood that earned credits will transfer and be accepted by other colleges and universities.

For questions about Early College at UMA, visit the Contact Us page.

The standards are organized into six key areas:

  • Partnerships – Fosters strong collaboration between colleges and high schools.
  • Curriculum – Ensures courses match the rigor, content, and learning outcomes of on-campus college courses.
  • Faculty – Requires instructors to meet institutional qualifications and participate in ongoing discipline-specific professional development.
  • Students – Supports equitable access, clear communication, and appropriate student services.
  • Assessment – Measures student learning using the same standards and expectations as on-campus students.
  • Program Evaluation – Promotes continuous improvement through regular evaluation and data-informed decision making.

These nationally recognized standards help ensure that students earn college credit through rigorous, high-quality learning experiences while strengthening partnerships between secondary schools and higher education institutions.

For more information about NACEP accreditation and the National Standards for Quality, visit NACEP’s National Standards for Quality.

High-Quality College Courses

UMA Early College courses follow the same academic standards as courses offered to college students. NACEP accreditation confirms that our courses maintain the rigor, expectations, and learning outcomes of the college experience.

Qualified and Supported Instructors

Our Early College instructors are carefully reviewed and supported through ongoing professional development and collaboration with UMA faculty.

A Connected College Experience

Students receive support in navigating college processes, building confidence, and preparing for their future academic goals.

A Stronger Start Toward College Success

Earning college credit in high school can help students explore interests, build academic skills, and make progress toward a degree.

  • Nationally accredited: UMA Early College courses meet nationally recognized quality standards
  • Earn college credit: Successfully completed courses are recorded on your official UMA transcript
  • Transfer Opportunities: Many colleges and universities accept college credits. Please note, transfer policies vary by institution.
  • Plan ahead: Check with the college or university you plan to attend to learn how your credits may apply to your desired degree program

Choosing an accredited Early College program means students and families can feel confident that their college experience is backed by national quality standards.

UMA Early College is committed to creating accessible, meaningful opportunities that help students discover their potential and take their next step toward higher education.