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ASCENT

ASCENT is a "5th Year high school" program.  After completing high school, eligible seniors can take college courses for one year, full time, tuition free, at Front Range Community College or Aims Community College. ASCENT students do not attend high school classes.  

Requirements: 

    • Has completed, or is on schedule to complete, at least 9 credit hours (semester hours or equivalent) of transcripted, credit-bearing, college-level postsecondary coursework* prior to completing his/her 12th grade year. Remedial/developmental education college courses do not qualify as part of the 9 required credits. 
      • No remedial/developmental education college courses. 
    • Is college ready and not in need of basic skills coursework in the selected pathway in which he/she enrolls.
    • Completes an Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) prior to declaring intent to participate in ASCENT.
    • Applies to and is accepted into a postsecondary degree program at a qualified Colorado institution of higher education.
    • Has been selected for participation by his/her high school principal or equivalent school administrator.
    • Has not been designated an ASCENT program participant in any prior year (can only participate in ASCENT for 1 academic year).
    • Are required to authorize the use of your College Opportunity Fund (COF) to help pay for your college course costs at a college/university that receives COF funding. Please note that college-level credits earned through ASCENT will be deducted from the student's COF lifetime credits account maximum.
    • Complete application process during senior year.

 Benefits: 

    • There is no tuition cost for ASCENT courses. The district will also cover all fees and books for ASCENT students. 

Consideration: 

    • Program funding is not determined until after graduation. 
    • No access to Federal aid or scholarships during this year.

Learn more about ASCENT through the CDE website.

ASCENT paperwork:  

High School Quick Guide for Graduating Seniors at Front Range Community College

How to save and print Aims and FRCC student schedules