Some talented students may be academically ready to start college before they have finished all four years of high school. Early entrance to college programs allow these students to begin college early, often with a cohort of other students doing the same. These programs typically provide various forms of support to help students successfully navigate college life. For more information about early entrance to college programs, see Early entrance to college: Academic, social and emotional considerations, from A Nation Empowered.
The Bucksbaum Early Entrance Academy enables high school juniors and seniors who are ready for university-level work to skip their final years of high school and head straight to college. Program participants will be regular University of Iowa students – taking classes, using libraries and labs, living in residence halls, and being involved in campus life. Additionally, our students are immersed in an enriched academic and social community for young students as they transition to university life.
The Belin-Blank Center provides extensive support to Bucksbaum Academy students, in the form of individual weekly meetings with first-year students, weekly seminars, advocacy across campus, cultural and recreational activities, and access to our staff and resources.
What age are the students?
The majority of students will enter the Academy at 16 years old. Applicants will generally have completed the equivalent of their sophomore or junior year in high school before entering the program.
Will I graduate from my high school if I am selected for early entrance?
Your high school administration will decide if you are eligible for a high school diploma. Nearly all high schools will apply first-year college credit toward their graduation requirements, and the vast majority of students in our program obtain their high school diploma. We encourage students to explore options for meeting their high school’s requirements and can provide your high school with transcripts of your work at Iowa.
What kinds of social and academic support systems are in place?
Students have the full support of staff at the Belin-Blank Center. They have regular individual meetings with a staff member, and also meet as a group for a weekly seminar in their first and second years. In addition, students have opportunities to attend social events organized by the program. There are many offices across campus that are also available to help, including the Academic Advising Center and Honors Program. The most important thing to remember is when you have a question or need something, ask…we'll help you find the answer.
How long does the program last?
Most of the requirements and programming occur during your first two years on campus. There are, however, many opportunities to remain connected with the Center throughout your career at Iowa.