Early College at UMF

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Create a Path to College as Unique as You

The University of Maine at Farmington’s Early College program offers distinctive and challenging UMF college courses for FREE to Maine’s high school students – students will only need to cover the cost of books and/or material fees (if required).

Keeping Credits with Purpose at the forefront, we work with you to select the courses that best fit your interests and needs, often leading you to need fewer classes in college — saving you money and time. Participating in an Early College program may also result in you having to take fewer high school classes because some of your college courses replace your high school classes.

Early College programs are offered at all of University of Maine System universities, each offering something a bit different. UMF prides itself in offering students opportunities to be in classes that are often small, hands-on (even when online) and student-centered.

Why Early College?

Research has shown that high school students who enroll in Early College courses are more likely to graduate high school, enroll in college and earn a college degree.

Early College students can show college admissions officers that they’re ready for more difficult coursework
Early College students typically have better study skills, more academic confidence and less anxiety about the upcoming transition to college
Early College students enter college with college credits under their belts and are more likely to earn a degree on time than students with no Early College credits
Early College is TUITION FREE for Maine residents. Some fees may apply and students are responsible for textbook costs, though this can sometimes be covered by the university or a student’s school district. If textbook costs are a barrier to participation, please contact Director of Early College Kirsten Petroska petroska@maine.edu

How to Get Started

The application process happens through Early College ExplorEC, an online portal where you can register for classes at any UMaine System campus.
For more information about ExplorEC, creating an account, and a step-by-step guide to applying for classes, please visit the University of Maine System Early College site.

74%

Percentage of First-Years that have taken an Early College class

15%

UMS reports that Early College students enroll in college at about a 15% higher rate than students without EC experience

56%

UMF Early College students come from rural schools

How You Can Take College Classes in High School

1. Take Classes at UMF (Aspirations Program)
If you live near UMF, you can actually take college classes on campus with real UMF professors — right alongside college students. If you don’t live nearby, no worries! There are also tons of online classes you can take from anywhere in Maine.

2. Earn College Credit at Your High School (Concurrent Enrollment)
Some high schools offer special college-level courses you can take right at your school. These are taught by your high school teachers who are trained and approved by UMF.

Kirsten Petroska

Director of Early College Partnerships
Division of Graduate & Continuing Education
University of Maine at Farmington
Theo Kalikow Education Center
186 High Street
Farmington, Maine 04938
tel 207-778-7266
TYY (via Maine Relay Service) dial 711
kirsten.petroska@maine.edu