Program Overview
Introduction to College Now
The College Now program is a unique opportunity for high school students to take college-level courses and earn credits that can be transferred to a college or university. The program is completely free of charge, and students do not pay any tuition, textbook, or material fees.
Cost and Savings
The program offers significant savings for students. By taking one College Now 3-credit course, students can save up to $1,494 based on CUNY fees for non-degree, part-time students. The breakdown of the estimated cost of a 3-credit course is as follows:
- Tuition: $210.00 per credit hour
- One-Time Application Fee: $65
- Part Time Student Fees: $93
- Technology Fee: $63
- Estimated cost of Texts: $100
- Estimated cost of Transportation weekly: $165 Total Savings Per Course: $1,494
Academics
The College Now program offers 3-credit introductory college courses in various subjects, including behavioral and social sciences, business, communications, humanities, political science, science, statistics, and more. The program also offers a 2-credit course in college planning and career decision-making. Each College Now course is a typical introductory freshman-level college course with respect to content, textbooks, assignments, tests, grading, and teaching methodology.
Attendance and Grading Policy
Attendance is taken daily in all College Now classes and plays a role in the instructor's determination of the student's final grade. The grading policy is as follows:
- A (+, -): Excellent (90 - 100%)
- B (+, -): Good (80 - 89)
- C (+): Average (70 - 79)
- C-, D(+): Below Average but Passing (60 -69)
- F: Failure
- INC: Term's Work Incomplete (will become an F unless work is completed within six months)
- W: Withdrew Without Penalty
- WU: Unofficial Withdrawal (counts as a failure)
- R: Did not meet minimum level of proficiency
Course Selection and Scheduling
Students select their courses with the help of a College Now counselor. For new participants, the counselor explains which course or courses are most appropriate after examining their high school transcripts. For continuing students, the counselor visits them in their College Now classrooms and helps them register for the upcoming semester. Classes meet before or after the regular high school day.
Credits and Transcripts
College Now credits can be transferred to another college or university. Students can purchase their transcript online at a cost of $9.00 for non-CUNY colleges and $2.00 for CUNY colleges. Most students successfully transfer their credits, which can be used as electives or equivalent credits at city, state, public, and private colleges throughout the nation.
Special Services and Activities
The College Now program offers several special services and activities, including:
- Rob Pero Certificate of Achievement Award: presented to the graduating senior at each high school who best exemplifies the College Now ideal
- College Now Summer Programs: students can take challenging courses during the summer in specific subjects such as science, math, music, broadcasting, journalism, theater arts, and maritime technology
- Model New York City Council: a unique five-weekend program that offers students the opportunity to meet City Council members and learn how the Council operates and passes bills
- Myself Third Scholarship: graduating students who plan to attend a CUNY college and have demonstrated significant community involvement and academic achievement can compete for one of twelve $5000 scholarships awarded each year
College Now Student Advisory Board (SAB)
The SAB was created to give students a voice in the operations of the College Now program. Each participating high school selects two representatives who serve for one year as liaisons between their fellow College Now students and the program's Directors.