Frequently Asked Questions about Early College

Who can apply to the CCTL and Crossroads?
The early colleges are open to residents of Iredell County.
Most students are accepted as rising ninth graders.

How are the CCTL and Crossroads similar to traditional high schools?
Bus transportation is provided.
There are opportunities for extracurricular activities.
There is no cost to the student or parent.
Graduation requirements are the same.

How are the CCTL and Crossroads different from traditional high schools?
Students earn two years of transferable college credit or an associate degree.
Students follow the Mitchell Community College calendar.
There are no school-sponsored athletic teams; however, students may participate in sports at the high school located in their attendance zone.
Students take college classes with other early college students as freshmen. Beginning in their sophomore year they take classes with traditional college students of Mitchell Community College.

How many students attend the early college?
Early colleges are designed to be smaller than traditional high schools. A maximum of 400 students can be enrolled in the school. The small educational environment allows the early college instructors to really get to know each student, allowing for maximum support.

Is lunch provided?
Yes. Lunch is available for purchase at the school. Free or reduced lunches are available for those who qualify. Parents must complete a free/reduced lunch form at the beginning of each year. Students may also bring their lunch.

Who determines or selects the students’ courses?
High school courses are selected by the early college faculty and staff and are based on the North Carolina Course of Study and graduation requirements. Mitchell Community College classes are determined by the early college staff in conjunction with the college advisor, the students and parents.

Is a placement test required before a student can take a college class?
Yes. Students must take the North Carolina Diagnostic Assessment and Placement Test (NC DAP) to determine the most appropriate level of college classes. NC DAP is a customized version of the ACCUPLACER administered at all 58 NC community colleges.

How do I apply for the early college programs?
Early college counselors and liaisons visit middle schools (eighth graders) each fall for information sessions. Application packets are available beginning in December and are due back to the early colleges by the beginning of February. Application packets are reviewed, and decisions are communicated by the end of April for the fall start date.