ECP Early College Program
Azusa High School: A 2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment School
Azusa High School is proud to announce that our Dual Enrollment program has been honored with the 2026 California Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award by the California Department of Education (CDE).
Out of thousands of programs across the state, Azusa High was one of only 32 schools recognized for demonstrating excellence in college-credit pathways, equitable student access, and strong community partnerships.
What This Means for Our Students
This state recognition validates our commitment to providing every student with a head start on their higher education journey. Through our award-winning program, students have the opportunity to:
- Earn transferable college credits while still in high school.
- Get a jump start on their future by working toward an Associate Degree.
- Save thousands of dollars in future tuition costs—all at no cost to our families.
Excellence in Equity and Partnership
To receive this honor, the CDE evaluated our program on rigorous standards, including:
- Evidence of strong, collaborative relationships between the high school and college partners.
- Proven student outcomes and successful pathways to graduation.
- Integrated student supports that ensure every student can succeed in a college-level environment.
Program Information
As a student in this program, you aren't just taking high school classes—you're earning college credit that travels with you.
- General Education (Cal-GETC): Take a specific set of courses that satisfy your future general education requirements at a UC or CSU.
- Sociology Degree (ADT): You can even earn a two-year Associate Degree in Sociology. This transfer degree serves as a bridge, providing you with a clear, guaranteed path to completing your Bachelor’s degree at a CSU.
What to Expect
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Location: All classes are held at Azusa High School (East Campus).
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Commitment: This is a 4-year journey that includes summer school (starting in June).
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The Schedule: College First: You will likely start your day at 7:30 AM with college courses, then move into your high school classes.
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Meeting Times: College classes usually meet twice a week (e.g., Mon/Wed or Tue/Thu).
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Full Experience: You can still participate in all high school electives, clubs, and activities!
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Support & Faculty: You’ll have a dedicated AUSD counselor to guide you. Classes are taught by Citrus College professors or specially qualified AUSD teachers.
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The Reward: You can earn up to 62 transferable college credits by graduation.
Note: Your specific schedule will be released in late Spring or early Summer once instructors are confirmed.
What is Early College?
The Early College Program is a partnership between the Azusa Unified School District and Citrus Community College. The program gives Azusa High School students the opportunity to take Citrus College courses that meet high school graduation requirements while earning college credits.
Top Reasons to Consider Early College
- Access to college courses on the AHS campus
- Course credit transferability to CSU/UC
- Decrease overall college costs
- Prepare for the rigor of college
Requirements
To be eligible for the Early College Program, students must meet the following criteria:
Academic & Personal Requirements
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GPA: A middle school GPA of 2.5 or higher (with no "F" grades on your 8th-grade semester report card).
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Recommendations: Two letters of recommendation from your 7th or 8th-grade teachers.
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Interview: A brief meeting with Azusa High School staff.
If You Are Accepted
Once you are cleared to join, you will need to complete these three steps to finalize your enrollment:
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[ ] Submit the Citrus College online registration.
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[ ] Complete the Dual Enrollment form.
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[ ] Sign a FERPA waiver (this allows the college to share your progress with the school and your parents).