Student/Parent Resources

• Student Handbook
• Scarlet Shirt Freshman
• Request a Transcript
• ITS Helpdesk
• Early College Programs Parental Consent Form
• ECP Advising

Student Handbook

The Student Handbook is your go-to guide for navigating your academic journey with A-State’s Early College Programs (ECP). Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know about program policies, course expectations, and resources that support your success as a concurrent or dual-enrolled student.

From grading standards and enrollment procedures to student rights, responsibilities, and support services, the handbook is designed to keep you informed and prepared. Think of it as your roadmap: it explains what’s expected of you as an ECP student, the support available to you, and how to make the most of your college experience while still in high school.

ECP Student Handbook 2026-2027

Scarlet Shirt Freshman

Scarlet Shirt Freshman (SSF) allows high school students to enroll in online college courses taught by A-State faculty while earning college credit. These courses follow the A-State academic calendar and expectations. Tuition for eligible students may still be covered through the ACCESS to Acceleration (A2A) Scholarship, similar to concurrent enrollment; however, all course materials and associated fees are the responsibility of the student. Submission of SSF forms does not guarantee enrollment, and students should review all course information, deadlines, and financial responsibilities before registering.

Fall and Spring SSF Enrollment: For Fall and Spring semesters, SSF forms must be completed and signed by the student, parent/guardian, and high school counselor prior to submission. These signatures confirm that all parties understand the academic expectations, enrollment process, and responsibilities associated with participation in the program.

Fall SSF Form

Spring SSF Form

Summer SSF Enrollment: For Summer SSF enrollment, forms must be completed and signed by the student and parent/guardian only. By signing the Summer SSF form, students and parents acknowledge that the ACCESS to Acceleration (A2A) Scholarship only covers tuition for up to 30 credit hours ($2,000 maximum) per academic year. It is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian to determine eligibility and remaining A2A funding for summer enrollment. Determining eligibility for summer A2A funding is not the responsibility of the Early College Programs office or the student’s high school.

Summer SSF Form

Request a Transcript

Transcripts

Order an Official Transcript (National Student Clearinghouse)

Transcript Policies

• Transcripts or other evidence of attendance will not be issued to or for a student who is in debt to the university.
• We do not accept transcript requests over the phone, by fax or by email. For a copy of your transcript, please use one of the methods above.
• Official transcripts of the student's ASU permanent record are issued on "security" paper with the seal of the University and the Registrar's signature.
• Transcripts which have been presented for admission or evaluation of credit become a part of the student's permanent record and are not reissued. Transcripts from other institutions (including high schools) must be obtained directly from the original issuing institution.
• Transcripts requested for currently enrolled students during the final exam period may have incomplete information from that term.

A full list of Transcript Policies can be found in the most current bulletin.

ITS Helpdesk

ITS Helpdesk

Early College Programs Parental Consent Form

Early College Programs Parental Consent Form

ECP Advising

Important Scholarship Information: A2A & Arkansas Academic Challenge

Students planning to earn college credits while in high school should understand how the ACCESS to Acceleration (A2A) Scholarship may affect their future eligibility for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship.

Beginning with the high school graduating class of 2028, credit hours paid for through the A2A Scholarship will be deducted from a student's total Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship eligibility in 30-credit-hour increments.

For more information click here.

Academic Advising & Degree Planning

We're Here to Help You Succeed!

Choosing a degree pathway is an exciting step in your college journey, and you do not have to navigate it alone!

Students will be assigned an academic advisor who can help them understand their degree requirements, explore academic options, and plan for future coursework.

Your academic advisor can assist with:

• Understanding your declared major and degree requirements.

• Reviewing completed college credits and academic progress.

• Identifying courses needed for your selected degree.

• Exploring other majors or degree pathways.

• Planning for the transition from high school to college.

• Understanding how your Early College credits may apply toward graduation.

We encourage all students interested in pursuing a degree while in high school to connect with their assigned academic advisor.

Need Help Finding Your Advisor?

If you have questions about academic advising, need assistance identifying your advisor, or would like additional guidance, visit A-State's Academic Advising website.

Visit A-State Academic Advising

You can also contact the Early College Programs Office for assistance. Our team is happy to help you navigate your options and connect you with the appropriate resources. 

Find Your Degree Program

Arkansas State University offers degree programs across a wide range of academic disciplines, including business, education, healthcare, science, technology, engineering, communication, and the arts.

Students can explore available programs, review degree requirements, and learn more about their academic options using A-State's Program Finder.

Explore All A-State Degree Programs

Please Note: Not all degree programs or courses are available to high school students through Early College Programs. Some majors have additional admission requirements or restrictions. Declaring a major does not guarantee admission into a selective program.

We encourage students to review their intended degree requirements and work with their academic advisor before selecting courses.

Associate of General Studies (AGS)

Earn an Associate's Degree at A-State

The Associate of General Studies (AGS) is a flexible degree program designed for students who want to build a strong academic foundation while exploring their educational and career interests.

This degree is an excellent option for Early College Programs students because many concurrent and dual enrollment courses may fulfill requirements toward the degree.

Degree Overview

• Degree: Associate of General Studies (AGS)

• College: University College

• Total Credit Hours Required: 60

• Degree Level: Undergraduate – Associate's Degree

• Program Focus: General education and elective coursework

Why Consider the Associate of General Studies?

The AGS provides several benefits for students beginning their college education:

• Get Ahead: Earn college credits while in high school that may count toward your associate's degree.

• Flexible Coursework: Complete general education requirements while exploring different academic interests.

• Build Your Foundation: Develop essential skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

• Prepare for a Bachelor's Degree: Many courses may also apply toward a future bachelor's degree.

• Work Toward an Early College Credential: Students who complete all degree requirements may be eligible to earn an associate's degree before or shortly after graduating from high school.

Important: Earning 60 college credit hours does not automatically guarantee completion of the Associate of General Studies. Students must satisfy all applicable degree requirements. We encourage students to work with their assigned academic advisor to ensure their courses align with their degree plan.

Explore the Associate of General Studies

For detailed information about degree requirements, available courses, and program expectations, visit the official A-State program page.

View the Associate of General Studies Program

Explore Other Degree Pathways

Your College Journey, Your Choice!

While the Associate of General Studies is a popular option for students earning college credit in high school, it is not the only degree pathway available.

Early College Programs students may also declare other eligible undergraduate majors and begin working toward degree-specific requirements.

Depending on your academic interests and future career goals, you may choose to pursue:

• Associate's Degrees: Programs designed to provide foundational knowledge and prepare students for further education or career opportunities.

   

• Bachelor's Degrees: Four-year degree programs that allow students to begin completing general education and applicable major-specific coursework while still in high school. Students may declare an eligible bachelor's degree major and work toward completing degree requirements before graduating from high school.

• Exploratory Pathways: Opportunities for students who are still deciding on a major to complete foundational college coursework while considering their options.

   

Important Information About Bachelor's Degrees

Students may begin working toward a bachelor's degree while enrolled in high school; however, they are NOT eligible to graduate with a bachelor's degree until after they have earned their high school diploma.

This does not prevent students from declaring an eligible bachelor's degree major or completing coursework that applies toward their degree while participating in Early College Programs.

We encourage students who already know their intended major to begin working toward that degree as early as possible. By completing applicable coursework while in high school, students may be able to reduce the time needed to finish their bachelor's degree after high school graduation.

Change of Major Instructions

Students enrolled in Early College Programs (ECP) at Arkansas State University may request to change their declared major or degree program by following the instructions below.

How to Change Your Major

1. Log in to your Pack Portal using your A-State credentials.

2. Navigate to the Student Tools section and select Change of Major.

3. Complete the Change of Major form for Traditional Students.

4. Select your desired major or degree program and submit your request.

Important Information Before Changing Your Major

Before submitting your request, please keep the following in mind:

• Degree Requirements: Review the requirements and degree plan for your intended major to ensure it aligns with your academic and career goals.

• Program Restrictions: Some programs, such as nursing and teacher education, have additional admission requirements and cannot be selected through the standard Change of Major form.

• Academic Planning: We encourage students to work with their high school counselor and the Early College Programs office to ensure their selected major aligns with their educational goals.

• Effective Date: Requests submitted after the 11th day of classes will take effect the following semester.

• Financial Considerations: Changing your major may affect your financial aid, scholarships, and anticipated graduation date.

Questions? Contact Early College Programs!

The Early College Programs team is here to support you as you explore your degree options and make progress toward your educational goals.

Whether you are interested in the Associate of General Studies, considering a bachelor's degree, or simply have questions about how your college credits apply toward a degree, we are happy to help!

Early College Programs
Arkansas State University
Email: cep@astate.edu
Phone: (870) 680-8365

Your college journey starts here. Make every credit count!