What Is Early Entry?
Our Early Entry option allows high school students to take classes at NDSU while they complete their high school diploma. Students who are in their junior and senior year of high school and who have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher are ideal candidates for the program. High school sophomores may also be considered based on demonstrated potential for academic success. There are several benefits, such as:
- Get an early start on your NDSU four-year degree
- Receive early advising and support from dedicated NDSU faculty and staff to keep you on track toward completing your four-year degree
- Get introduced to the rigor of NDSU classes early
- Save time and money
What Classes Can I Take?
Several classes are available to take. Click the links below to learn more and view the Early Entry class catalog. Depending on your interests, some classes may require you to complete exams (e.g. AP tests) or other prerequisites prior to class registration.
Costs
Early Entry students pay a reduced tuition and fees rate of $148.25 per credit, a $235 savings compared to the standard per credit rate for a North Dakota resident. Most NDSU classes are three (3) credits, meaning one class is equal to approximately $444.75 for the 2022-23 academic year.
Important Dates
To ensure ample time to plan and explore class offerings, you are strongly encouraged to begin the application process at the time you are working with your high school counselor to register for your next academic year’s classes.
| Fall Semester Start | Spring Semester Start | Summer Semester Start | |
| Application Deadline | August 1 | December 15 | May 1 |
| Class Registration Opens | Mid-April | Mid-November | Mid-March |
During the registration process, you will also complete a brief orientation session to prepare you for NDSU coursework.
Ready to Apply?
To begin as an Early Entry student, submit the following:
- Application for admission and indicate the Early Entry option
- Official high school transcript sent directly to the NDSU Office of Admission from your high school
Please note:
- NDSU college classes may or may not substitute for classes required for high school graduation. North Dakota students must initiate the appropriate application with a high school counselor to count college credit toward graduation requirements.
- Written permission from the student’s parent/guardian is required prior to enrolling in Early Entry classes. You will be notified when it’s time to provide a parent/guardian signature.
- Admission to NDSU as Early Entry does not guarantee enrollment in desired classes. Enrollment in classes is dependent on capacity and seat availability at the time you enroll.
Contact Us
For questions regarding the application process, contact Kylee Davis, Admission Counselor in the Office of Admission, at (701) 231-5132 or kylee.davis@vbj4.com.
For all other Early Entry questions, contact the Office of Teaching and Learning at (701) 231-7015 or ndsu.otl@vbj4.com.