 | Students place less often into developmental education when they transition into higher education. |
 | Students accelerate their learning in a field of interest. |
 | Students gain a sense of belonging in higher education. |
 | Students earn early college credit at a reduced cost, making higher education attainment more affordable. |
 | Students tend to enroll full-time-in higher education and complete their degree at a higher rate. |
Early College Students Graduate, Attend College at Higher Rates
Using the federal definition of four-year graduation: 90 PERCENT of early college students graduate high school vs. the national rate of 78 percent
Plus, it costs them less time and money to earn a postsecondary credential 94 PERCENT of early college graduates earn some college credit for free; The average grad earns 38 COLLEGE CREDITS, saving:
- 30 percent off a Bachelor's degree; or
- 60 percent off an Associate degree.
Nearly one-quarter of students actually earn degrees by the time they finish high school: 30 PERCENT of graduates at early colleges open 4+ years have earned an Associate or college certificate along with their high school diploma!
The next semester after graduation early college: 71 PERCENT of graduates enroll in college vs. the national rate of 68 percent.
SOURCE: Early College Design Service, Jobs for the Future
Background Research on Early College
Research shows that Early College contributes to improved access to higher education, accelerated degree progress, and long-term economic benefits for participating students. Several groups have explored the impact of early college programs:
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Massachusetts Department of Higher Education: Commonwealth Dual Enrollment Partnership
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Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education: College and Career Readiness
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Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy: Early College Designs
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American Institutes for Research: Early College, Early Success
