University of Early College Experience

UConn Early College Experience (ECE) provides academically motivated students the opportunity to take university courses while still in high school. These challenging courses allow students to preview college work, build confidence in their readiness for college, and earn college credits that provide both an academic and a financial head-start on a college degree. The Stratford High School ECE instructors, who are certified as adjunct professors by UConn faculty, create a classroom environment fostering independent learning, creativity and critical thinking – all of which are pivotal for success in college. ECE students must successfully complete the course with a grade of C or better in order to receive university credit. University credits are highly transferable to other universities, but it is the student’s responsibility to check with specific universities for transfer of credit

**Important: please note that there is now a new UCONN ECE Grading Policy in effect for 2019-2020. Please visit www.ece.uconn.edu for more details.

Please Note the Following:

• Program fees are $50.00 per course credit. An additional $25.00 non-refundable administrative fee is charged for applications submitted between August 15-Septemebr 16. No Fees will be due until the Fall. Fees will be due to UCONN on November 7th, 2020 for Fall courses; Spring course fees are due to UCONN on January 8, 2020. Students who receive free or reduced lunch will be exempted from any exam fees.

• We have met with the prospective 2019-20 UCONN ECE students to distribute their registration forms (already signed by us for approved courses that appear on the label on the consent form) as well as all information they will need to successfully apply/enroll in their courses.

• For the 2019-2020 academic year, students will be ONLY applying for courses online at home or on a school computer between April 30th-June 7th.

• When students return in September, they will Enroll in the classes they have selected.

• To start the online registration process, go to: www.ece.uconn.edu and click on “APPLY & ENROLL”. Step by Step instructions can be found on that website as well as in the Registration Guide and Consent form they have already received. The Consent form must be submitted by June 7th and the course registration must be complete.

• All students should save an electronic copy of their consent form and submit their signed consent form to the AP/ECE Coordinator, Mrs. DiDonato. Electronic copies can also be sent to Mrs. DiDonato via email: didonatod@stratk12.org

If you need assistance with the online registration process, please either use the online tutorial or call the UCONN ECE toll free helpline 1-855-382-UECE(8323) M-F 7:30 am- 7:30 pm. The school counseling staff is also available to assist with questions and issues. Please contact your student’s school counselor with concerns.

The following courses may be offered at both high schools:

At the student’s request , the University of Connecticut ’s Official Transcripts Office provides evidence of each ECE course completion through an official transcript which will be sent to their college of choice at no cost. http://ece.uconn.edu/hsstudents/hsstu_rec.php

Website as of summer of 2019-2020: http://www.ece.uconn.edu/

About Advanced Placement (AP)

AP can change your life. Through college-level AP courses, you enter a universe of knowledge that might otherwise remain unexplored in high school; through AP Exams, you have the opportunity to earn credit or advanced standing at most of the nation's colleges and universities. Registration for the Advanced Placement exams will begin in September 2019. As a reminder, students who are enrolled in advanced placement courses are expected to take the AP exam(s) that are given for that course. For 2019-2020, the cost of each exam is $98.00. Currently, students who are eligible for Free/Reduced lunch do not pay fees.

Why Participate?

With 37 courses and exams across 22 subject areas, AP offers something for everyone. The only requirements are a strong curiosity about the subject you plan to study and the willingness to work hard. Here are just a few reasons to sign up:

Gain the Edge in College Preparation

• Get a head start on college-level work.

• Improve your writing skills and sharpen your problem-solving techniques.

• Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work.

Stand Out in the College Admissions Process

• Demonstrate your maturity and readiness for college.

• Show your willingness to push yourself to the limit.

• Emphasize your commitment to academic excellence.

Broaden Your Intellectual Horizons

• Explore the world from a variety of perspectives, most importantly your own.

• Study subjects in greater depth and detail.

• Assume the responsibility of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding for yourself.

How Do I Enroll?

Once you've decided to take the AP challenge it's easy to enroll.

• Talk to an AP teacher or the AP Coordinator at your school about the course you want to take. Discuss the course's workload and any preparation you might need.

• If you are a homeschooled student or attend a school that doesn't offer AP, you can still participate. Each year hundreds of students participate through independent study. Some states even sponsor online AP courses.

• College Board Website