Early Entry Options

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Two Different "Types" of Early Entry

Early Entry-Early Entry

Formal agreement between NDSU and high school not required
Choose from all available NDSU classes (students must meet prerequisites)
Take classes on campus or online, taught by NDSU instructors
NDSU credits earned may count for high school credit (at discretion of high school)
Get started by reviewing Early Entry class options and program costs, and completing the Early Entry Admission process below

Early Entry-Dual Credit

Formal agreement between NDSU and partner high schools in Cass county required
High school identifies specific course(s) that are available as part of Dual Credit agreement
Classes are typically taught at the high school by approved high school teachers or by NDSU instructors
High school credit and NDSU credit are guaranteed as part of Dual Credit agreement
Get started by checking with your high school to see if Dual Credit agreements are in place with NDSU

Learn More About Dual Credit

Set Your Inspiration Wild

Explore your interests, pursue what you love, and get a head start on college with NDSU's Early Entry classes.

Explore Early Entry Classes

Early Entry Program Costs

Tuition for early-entry courses is discounted from the full tuition rate through the application of an Early Entry tuition waiver. The following represent the adjusted per credit rates based on the applicant's residency.

North Dakota

All eligible North Dakota residents and North Dakota military families.

$154.36 = Tuition
$5.50 = ConnectND Fee
$.04 = NDSA Fee

$159.90/credit = Total

Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, Illinois, Wisconsin

Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, Illinois and Wisconsin residents, as well as those who are dependents of an NDUS Alum.

$167.34 = Tuition
$5.50 = ConnectND Fee
$.04 = NDSA Fee

$172.88/credit = Total

Other U.S. States

Residents of other U.S. states (not listed in other categories)

$179.69 = Tuition
$5.50 = ConnectND Fee
$.04 = NDSA Fee

$185.23/credit = Total

International

Students who are on an F or J visa

$179.69 = Tuition
$5.50 = ConnectND Fee
$.04 = NDSA Fee

$185.23/credit = Total

Early Entry Admission Guidelines

Students who are in their junior or senior year of high school and who have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher are ideal candidates to take Early Entry classes. High school sophomores may also be considered based on demonstrated potential for academic success.

Ready to Apply for Early Entry?

Complete and submit the Application for Admission and choose "Early Entry" as your student type
Indicate your Early Entry "Type" (Early Entry or Dual Credit)
Ask your high school to send an official transcript directly to the NDSU Office of Admission

How to Send Your Documents

Photo of NDSU's bison statue from low in the grass.

4 Reasons to Consider NDSU's Early Entry Program

1)

Get an early start on your NDSU four-year degree

2)

Receive early advising from dedicated NDSU faculty and staff to keep you on track

3)

Challenge yourself with the rigor of NDSU classes early

4)

Save time and money by earning college credits at a discounted rate

For School Leaders

Learn more about becoming a dual credit partner

Are you a school leader who is interested in learning more about partnering with NDSU on Dual Credit offerings? Fill out our Dual Credit Interest Form to get connected with one of our team members.

Dual Credit Interest Form

Dates and Deadlines

Summer 2026: Applications must be submitted by July 1. (Class Registration Opens Mid-March)

Fall 2026: Applications must be submitted by August 1. (Class Registration Opens Mid-April)

Spring 2027: Opening in early February

Admission decisions are typically mailed within 2-3 weeks after all required application materials have been received.

Apply Now!