The Bridge Scholar Program is an opportunity available in Georgia that allows eligible high school students to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school. This initiative aims to create a smooth transition to higher education, helping students build academic confidence and reduce the time and cost required to complete a college degree.
What is the Bridge Scholar Program?
The Bridge Scholar Program offers high school juniors and seniors the chance to take college courses while completing their high school education. This dual enrollment program allows students to experience college-level coursework, develop skills in time management and independent study, and potentially earn credits that count toward both their high school diploma and a college degree.
How Does the Program Work?
Students accepted into the Bridge Scholar Program enroll in courses at participating Georgia colleges or universities. Courses are usually held during the high school day, after school hours, or online. The credits earned often satisfy both high school graduation requirements and college prerequisites, giving students a head start on their college journey. Many schools in Georgia participate in this program, including public and private colleges and technical schools, though specific courses offered may vary by institution.
Qualifications for the Bridge Scholar Program
To be eligible, students generally must:
- Be a junior or senior in high school.
- Have a minimum GPA requirement, which may vary by college but is typically around a 2.5 to 3.0.
- Meet testing requirements for college readiness, often requiring scores from the SAT, ACT, or ACCUPLACER.
- Obtain approval from their high school guidance counselor and parent or guardian.
Specific requirements can differ by institution, so it’s important to check with the intended college or university.
What Do Parents and Students Need to Do to Qualify?
- Meet with a School Counselor: Parents and students should consult the high school guidance counselor to discuss eligibility, program benefits, and required steps.
- Submit an Application: Students must complete an application to the college or university offering the dual enrollment program. This typically includes high school transcripts and, if required, standardized test scores.
- Gain Parental Approval: Parental consent is necessary for students to participate.
- Apply for Funding: Many Georgia students qualify for funding to cover tuition, fees, and textbooks through the state’s Dual Enrollment program, reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.
- Course Selection and Approval: High school counselors often assist with selecting courses that fulfill both high school and college requirements.
Participating Schools
Many of Georgia’s public and private colleges and technical schools participate in the Bridge Scholar Program. Some notable participants include the University System of Georgia schools, such as the University of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, as well as technical colleges within the Technical College System of Georgia. A complete list of participating schools is available through Georgia’s Department of Education or the individual schools’ dual enrollment offices. The following are a few links for you to explore.
The Georgia Department of Education – This is a link to the department’s website.
The Georgia Department of Education Dual Enrollment PowerPoint – You will find helpful information here, also.
The Georgia Student Finance Committee – Find current schools across the state of Georgia that offer dual enrollment
Steps to Take Advantage of the Bridge Scholar Program
- Research Participating Schools: Visit the website of the colleges your child is interested in to understand the specific program offerings and admissions criteria.
- Prepare for Testing: Schedule and take any required standardized tests if the college requires them for program admission.
- Complete the Application Process: Submit applications to both the high school counselor and the chosen college, including parental permission forms and any required documentation.
- Apply for State Funding: Most Bridge Scholar students in Georgia qualify for the Dual Enrollment grant, which requires completing an online application form.
- Finalize Course Enrollment: After acceptance, work with both the high school and college advisors to ensure that selected courses will fulfill necessary requirements.
Short and Long-Term Benefits
Short-Term Benefits
- Reduced Education Costs: With potential for state funding, students and parents can save on tuition, fees, and textbook costs.
- College Credit Earned: Successful course completion allows students to earn credits that often count toward a future college degree.
- Early Exposure to College-Level Work: Students gain valuable experience managing college coursework, expectations, and responsibilities.
Long-Term Benefits
- Acceleration of College Degree: By entering college with credits, students may reduce the time needed to complete their degree.
- Enhanced College Application: Participation in the Bridge Scholar Program demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and academic capability.
- Reduced Overall College Costs: Fewer semesters required to graduate may translate to substantial cost savings on tuition and living expenses.
- Career Readiness: Early exposure to college and technical courses better prepares students for the demands of college and future careers.
The Bridge Scholar Program in Georgia provides students with a unique opportunity to accelerate their academic journey while gaining college experience and potentially saving on education costs. By following the steps outlined above, students and parents can take advantage of this valuable program, making it a powerful tool in preparing for college and beyond.