What is Early Study at USM?

Early Study is a fall- and spring-semester academic enrichment program for qualified high school juniors and seniors to take college courses at the University of Southern Maine. Students are selected for participation based upon the recommendation of their guidance counselors. As with all college students, Early Study students need to meet applicable course prerequisites. To participate in the Early Study at USM program, students complete an Early Study application (PDF file: 45k / 2 pages)* which includes guidance counselor, Early Study advisor, and parental approval.

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Who Is Eligible to Participate in the Early Study Program?

In general, Early Study at USM students are advanced students in the top 20% of their classes (“B” average). Early Study at USM is intended to provide high school students with the opportunity to enrich their high school programs—to help students supplement, not supplant, the academic program of the high school. Recommendations from guidance counselors are a required part of the Early Study at USM application process. (Students who are home-schooled may also participate in the Early Study at USM program.)

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What Courses May a Student Take as Part of Early Study at USM?

Students may take any course for which they have guidance counselor approval, have met the prerequisites, and for which there are spaces available and no registration restrictions are imposed. The Early Study advisors facilitate the registration process for the student. Course schedules are made available in the late fall for the spring semester and late spring for the next fall semester. Courses are also listed on the USM Web site. Schedules may also be available at high school guidance offices and at University College sites.

Advantages to being in the Early Study Program:

• You earn college credit
• You enhance your high school learning
• You become familiar with the college setting
• You can pre-register and receive billing assistance
• You have an assigned USM advisor

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How Do Students Register for Courses?

Students interested in taking college courses must contact one of the Early Study at USM advisors listed below and complete the Early Study application (PDF file: 45k / 2 pages)*. The advisor will facilitate the course registration process. The advisor also works closely with students and guidance counselors to ensure that students have a positive experience and that schools receive the information they need regarding the student's performance (e.g., final grade, if appropriate).

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How Do I Obtain an Application?

Application materials are available at this Web site. Please print and complete the Early Study application (PDF file: 45k / 2 pages)*. More information about the Early Study at USM program may be obtained from high school guidance counselors or Early Study advisors.

Jean Kerrigan, assistant director of Advising
Advising Services Center
119 Payson Smith Hall
P.O. Box 9300
Portland, ME 04104-9300
(207) 780-4040 or
1-800-800-4USM, ext. 4040
E-mail: kerrigan@usm.maine.edu

Iris Guillemette, Student Services advisor
Lewiston-Auburn College
51 Westminster Street
Lewiston, ME 04240
(207) 753-6573
E-mail: irisg@usm.maine.edu

Cynthia Young, coordinator of Student Services
University College Sanford
9 Bradeen Street
Springvale, ME 04083
(207) 324-6012 or 1-800-696-3075
E-mail: cyoung@maine.edu

Wendy Goodwin, coordinator of Student Services
University College Saco
110 Main Street, Suite 1101
Saco, ME 04072
(207) 282-4111 or 1-800-696-3391
E-mail: wcole@maine.edu

Dennis Unger, coordinator of Student Services
University College Bath/Brunswick
9 Park Street
Bath, ME 04530
(207) 442-7736 or 1-800-696-2329
E-mail: unger@maine.maine.edu

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What Are the Costs of Participating in the Early Study at USM Program?

The costs of participating in the Early Study at USM program include tuition and fees as well as book and supply expenses. USM offers Early Study students a waiver of one-half tuition for up to six credit hours or two courses (whichever is greater) if all criteria are met. Students interested in participating should also contact their guidance offices to explore whether or not their school system may be reimbursed for the costs associated with these courses.

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The University of Southern Maine shall not discriminate on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or citizenship status, age, disability, or veteran's status in employment, education, and all other areas of the University. The University provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Questions and complaints about discrimination in any area of the University should be directed to the executive director, Office of Diversity and Equity, 780-5094, TTY 780-5646.