Two UMF students, Kiley Meader, and Emma Dunn sit in the dining hall and smile for a photo.

Early College Students

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.

UMF Partner High Schools and Concurrent Enrollment Offerings

Ricker Addition building alongside trees with orange fall foliage.
Ricker Addition building alongside trees with orange fall foliage.

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 kirsten.petroska@maine.edu

Learn Morn About UMF Pathways
I think Early College really prepares you well. Taking college-level classes made my transition to college way easier — and I didn’t have to pay extra for it. I feel like my freshman year of college is easier than my senior year of high school. And unlike my roommates, I can get 8 hours of sleep and I still have some free time. Plus, I was able to fit in the English Language Learner Certificate class I wanted to do.
Gabby Jolin
Early College student
Graduated from Foxcroft Academy
Professor talking to two students
Professor talking to two students

Early College Pathways at UMF

Our Early College Pathways allow you to explore careers, programs, and majors at UMF while also pursuing meaningful coursework that will have relevance — both now and once you’re in college.

Each pathway consists of 4 courses that are meant to both introduce students to the content of a major or academic program while also giving them a chance to earn credits that are highly transferable and relevant regardless of where students land after high school. To learn about specific pathway courses, visit this site.

Aspirations

Students near the University of Maine at Farmington can attend in-person classes on campus with UMF faculty and students, while those across the state can access a wide and growing selection of online courses.

Concurrent Enrollment

Through this option, you can earn college credit by taking specially designed courses at partner high schools, taught by approved high school teachers who collaborate closely with UMF faculty to maintain college-level quality and rigor.

How do I apply?

Apply for Early College through the ExplorEC online portal—though UMF encourages you to choose its classes for a more personalized experience.

Group of people smiling and wearing UMF apparel.
Group of people smiling and wearing UMF apparel.

What are some benefits of UMF’s Early College program?

  • Show college admissions officers that you’re ready for more difficult coursework
  • Gain better study skills, more academic confidence, and less anxiety about the upcoming transition to college
  • Enter college with college credits under your belts and will be 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.

University of Maine Farmington sign outside of Mantor library.

Have questions? Contact us!

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

For additional information about the University of Maine System’s Early College programs, please visit: https://www.maine.edu/early-college/