Vermont high school juniors and seniors can earn free college credits at the University of Vermont through the Vermont Dual Enrollment program. This opportunity allows students to take up to two college courses, with tuition fully covered, giving them a head start on their college journey while fulfilling high school graduation requirements.
Continue reading to learn how to take advantage of this program to prepare for college-level academics, including our step-by-step guide for how to apply.
What is Vermont Dual Enrollment?
Vermont Dual Enrollment allows high school juniors and seniors to take college courses at UVM for free, earning credits that count toward both high school graduation and college. Students gain authentic college experiences while supported by their high school and learn from expert faculty at a top-tier research university.
Eligibility Requirements
Who qualifies for Vermont Dual Enrollment?
You must be a Vermont resident enrolled in a participating public high school or approved homeschool program. Fall and Spring semesters are open to juniors and seniors, while Summer sessions welcome sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Check with your school counselor for specific details about your school’s participation and any additional requirements.
Special considerations exist for students with alternative learning plans or unique academic needs.
These students are encouraged to review options with their school counselors to determine the best pathway forward. Your counselor can help navigate any accommodations or modifications needed to make dual enrollment successful.
The program welcomes students from diverse academic backgrounds who demonstrate readiness for college-level work. You don’t need perfect grades, but you should show motivation and preparedness for the increased academic rigor.
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Benefits of Dual Enrollment at UVM
World-Class Education
Learning from expert faculty at the University of Vermont means accessing the same quality education that college students receive. As a prestigious R1 research institution, UVM offers opportunities to engage with faculty conducting groundbreaking research in fields ranging from medicine to environmental science to business.
“Summer Academy” On-Campus Pre-College Program
Make your summer count towards your college journey! UVM Summer Academy is unique four-week immersive program that blends two weeks of hands-on learning while living on our Burlington campus, with two weeks of flexible online coursework. Choose exciting courses like Pre-Calculus and Health & Medicine, earn transferable college credits, and expand your network, build confidence, and discover university life. The annual program runs from late-June through late-July. Video: Why Parents Enroll High School Students in Summer Academy at UVM!
No-Cost College Courses
The most immediate benefit is financial: eligible students can take up to two college courses at UVM with tuition covered by state vouchers. This represents thousands of dollars in savings and removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent students from accessing high-quality higher education. Check out the Pre-College Courses webpage for available courses, schedules, and descriptions.
Academic Head Start
You’ll get an authentic feel for the college experience while earning credits that transfer to future degree programs. This early exposure helps you understand college expectations, teaching styles, and academic culture before you’re fully responsible for navigating it independently.
Skill Development
College courses naturally build time management, communication, and study skills in a welcoming university environment. You’ll learn to balance multiple responsibilities, engage with professors as peers, and develop the self-advocacy skills essential for college success.
These benefits extend beyond academic preparation. Students often report increased confidence, clearer career direction, and stronger college applications as results of their dual enrollment experience.
How to Apply for Vermont Dual Enrollment Vouchers
Getting started requires planning and coordination between you, your parents, and your school counselor. Here’s the streamlined process:
Step 1: Begin preparing as the new school year starts in the fall—talk to your school counselor early about your interest in dual enrollment and how it fits your academic goals.
Step 2: Create an account on the Vermont Agency of Education Dual Enrollment portal. The Student Guide – Account Access provides detailed instructions for setting up your account and navigating the system.
Step 3: Research UVM course options that fit your interests and graduation requirements. The Pre-College Courses at UVM page shows available courses, schedules, and descriptions to help you make informed choices.
Step 4: Apply for your voucher before each semester’s deadline—you can use one voucher per semester, for up to two total throughout your high school career. The Student Guide – Request Vouchers walks you through the application process.
Step 5: Secure approval from your high school counselor, then follow UVM’s instructions to enroll in your chosen course. Your counselor plays a crucial role in ensuring the course aligns with your academic plan and graduation requirements.
Key Deadlines & Timeline
Planning ahead ensures a smooth experience with Vermont Dual Enrollment at UVM. As you prepare—ideally at the start of your fall semester—keep these important dates in mind:
| College Semester | HS Year (Eligibility) | Prepare Personalized Learning Plan (PLP) (w/ School Counselor) & Create/Manage Student Account (in VT DE System) | Dual Enrollment Voucher Opens | UVM Course Registration Deadline |
| Spring | 11, 12 | Sept – Oct | November 7 | January 6 |
| Summer | 10, 11, 12 | Dec – Jan | Mid-February | May 10 |
| Fall | 11, 12 | Feb – Mar | Mid-April | June 10 (before HS Summer starts) August 18 (deadline to register for class) |
PRO TIP! Staying aware of these deadlines ensures you have enough time to complete your application, secure your voucher, and choose your UVM course. Starting early helps prevent last-minute stress and maximizes your opportunity to enroll in courses that best fit your academic goals.
The preparation period begins months before voucher applications open. This timing allows you to work with your counselor to align dual enrollment with your broader academic plan and ensure you’re ready when opportunities become available.
Tips for School Counselors
School counselors play a vital role in dual enrollment success. Here are key strategies to support students effectively:
Communicate Often
Encourage students to maintain regular contact with both their high school counselor and college advisors. This ongoing communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures students receive support when challenges arise.
Time Management Skills
Provide concrete examples of strategies to balance high school and college workloads. Help students understand that college courses require different time management approaches than high school classes.
Course Selection Advice
Guide students toward general education courses that transfer easily to most colleges. This strategic approach maximizes the long-term value of their dual enrollment experience.
Engage & Participate
Share tips for building relationships with college professors and peers. College success often depends on students’ ability to advocate for themselves and engage actively in their learning community.
Plan Future Steps
Help students use earned credits as part of a broader strategy for college admissions and savings. Connect dual enrollment to their larger educational and career goals.
Resources for Vermont High School Students and Parents
Official Vermont Dual Enrollment Website
The Vermont Agency of Education provides comprehensive information, FAQs, and direct links for applications. This should be your first stop for official program information and updates.
Guidance Counselor Support
Your high school counselor offers individualized advice tailored to your specific situation, academic record, and future goals. Don’t hesitate to schedule regular check-ins throughout the process.
Scholarship Opportunities
While dual enrollment covers tuition, you may want to explore additional resources for supplementing costs like textbooks or materials. Your counselor can connect you with local scholarship opportunities.
Free Tutorials/Workshops
Many organizations offer webinars and seminars on succeeding in dual enrollment programs. These sessions provide practical advice and connect you with other students navigating similar experiences.
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Book NowHow to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started is easier than you might think! There are two pathways to begin the process, and the timing of your application will determine which approach works best.
There are two pathways to START the process:
- UVM’s Pre-College website: Submit a Course Application
—OR—
- Vermont Agency of Education’s website: Apply for a Dual Enrollment Voucher
IF you Apply BEFORE the Voucher Application Window is OPEN:
- START at UVM’s Pre-College Website
- Select the Course, and Submit the Course Application
- Establish Contact with UVM’s Pre-College Advisor
- THEN, Visit the Vermont Agency of Education Website when Enrollment Opens
- Submit your Dual Enrollment Voucher Application
- High School Counselor will Review and Approve your Application
- Request your Dual Enrollment Voucher Number from High School Counselor
- Email Voucher Number to UVM Pre-College Advisor
IF you Apply DURING the OPEN Voucher Application Window:
- START at the Vermont Agency of Education Website when Enrollment is Open
- Submit your Dual Enrollment Voucher Application
- High School Counselor will Review and Approve your Application
- Request your Dual Enrollment Voucher Number from High School Counselor
- THEN, Visit UVM’s Pre-College Website
- Select the Course, and Submit the Course Application
- Include your Voucher Number on your Course Application
After you Submit the Course Application:
- The student’s parent or guardian will receive an email containing a Registration Approval Form
- This form must be completed and signed to confirm participation
Pre-Requisites:
- If you are pursuing a course that requires pre-requisites for enrollment…
- Your UVM Pre-College advisor will guide you through the process after you submit your application
Key Documents:
UVM’s Online Registration Team will then manage your enrollment automatically, AFTER you’ve submitted these 3 key documents:
- Dual Enrollment Voucher Application
- UVM Course Application
- Registration Approval Form (Parent/Guardian Signature)
What’s Next?
- Students will receive communication after enrollment with next steps for becoming an official UVM Pre-College student
- This includes setup of the “Student Net ID” and “MyUVM” access
Pro Tip! Popular courses fill up fast—be sure to stay ahead of the application process to secure your seat!
For more information, please visit the State of Vermont Agency of Education Dual Enrollment Website. Apply for a voucher through the Vermont Agency of Education.
Your journey to college-level learning starts with a single step!
Take that step today, and open doors to opportunities that will serve you throughout your academic and professional career.
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