Know the Score on Dual Enrollment with eCore

Do you like the idea of earning college credits at the same time you’re completing high school? Are you a Georgia resident? If so, you should explore Dual Enrollment opportunities at JMHS that may enable you to essentially “skip” your freshman year and enter college as a sophomore.

As a JMHS student who lives in Georgia, the eCore Dual Enrollment program allows you to enroll at one of 23 participating postsecondary institutions in the state to earn credit toward your high school graduation while simultaneously earning credit toward a college degree. The eCore program offers approximately 30 courses in core subjects that are 100% online. For Georgia residents enrolled in SACS-accredited high schools like JMHS, the courses are free, with eBooks provided online. (Depending on other participating institution, some fees may apply.)

Karen Lingrell, associate director of collaborative programs, works with eCore and its participating institutions to offer support and guidance to enrolled students. She is excited about the value that eCore can provide to a high school student’s overall education. She says, “The goal of eCore is to give students a head start on their academics. It speeds up degree completion time and gives students the confidence that they will be successful as college students. In addition, it doesn’t interfere a bit with the Georgia HOPE scholarship. The flexibility is perfect for busy high school students.”

Currently, more than 30,000 students are taking eCore courses, which is administered by the University of West Georgia, one of the 23 eCore affiliate schools.

We spoke with Karen to clarify some common student questions about eCore. See below.

Q: How do I apply?

A: The first of four easy steps to register is to choose the institution you would like to attend and review the list of courses offered there and the particular dual enrollment admissions requirements of that institution. At present, students must submit an SAT or ACT score to be eligible for eCore dual enrollment courses. The next step is to open a student account at Gafutures.org. JMHS student are encouraged to contact JMHS Principal Megan Bowen at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for specific guidance.

Q: How long does the application process take?

A: The eCore college admissions process can take awhile – as long as three to four months to enroll, so apply early.

Q: What are the college courses like?

A: Much like JMHS courses, you can see the complete syllabus online, the textbooks are online, and there are embedded resources that you can take advantage of to assist you in your studies. You will have access to tutors, live chat, an online library and discussion boards for the duration of the course. There may be one or more proctored exams, but in some cases they may be taken virtually.

Q: Do the college courses have completion deadlines?

A: Yes. You can choose an 8-week or 16-week course, and they do follow the traditional University System of Georgia academic calendar with specific course start and end dates.

Q: So eCore courses are not self-paced like JMHS course are?

A: No. Each eCore course has a pre-determined syllabus and schedule, with dates for exams and quizzes, individual and group projects, and other activities that students must complete by certain dates. However, you will be completing assignments, working on group projects, posting email comments, and taking exams 100% online, just as you do as a JMHS student.

Many exciting options are waiting for you in Georgia’s Dual Enrollment program. Dual enrollment saves money and time and puts you on a direct path toward your college education.

Want to know more? Please call 1-800-349-6861 to speak to an admissions advisor.