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Gateway to College offers a real second chance for success to students who have left high school without a diploma. Eligible students receive what amounts to a college scholarship, along with the opportunity to complete their high school requirements while earning college credits toward a degree or certificate. Curriculum is organized for maximum credit earning potential, and students receive individualized support from dedicated resource specialists who act as coaches, mentors, and advisors.
A fabulous opportunity
Gateway to College is a scholarship program. College tuition and books are provided; students pay only fees. The program is flexible—students can attend during the day or during the evening. Students can also work while attending school. New learning communities start every term.
Gateway to College provides personal support to every student. Our staff have extensive experience with out-of-school youth, and the personal belief that all young people can succeed in college. Students tell us that learning in an adult environment without all the "drama" of high school helps them focus and progress. Graduates are earning associate's degrees and certificates, gaining financial aid for transfer to four-year universities, and achieving tremendous confidence and personal growth.
Requirements for students
Potential students must attend an information session to find out more about the requirements and expectations of the program and take a reading and vocabulary assessment. Gateway to College is targeted to students 16 to 20 years old who are significantly behind in high school credits. Students should be able to earn enough high school credits to achieve a diploma prior to turning 21. Students must live within a qualifying school district to be eligible. Students who attend an information session but do not qualify for Gateway to College receive suggestions on programs that might better serve their needs.
Reading is essential to college success, so students must have an eighth grade reading level in order to qualify for Gateway to College. Students must also perform successfully on Gateway to College assessments in math, grammar and mechanics, and writing. There are no income requirements. Students must commit to regular attendance, proper college behavior, and making time for the homework required of all college students.
The Foundation term
Gateway to College provides a supportive transition back into education. All students complete their first term in a learning community of 20 to 25 students, studying alongside other youth in the program and with teachers selected for their ability to work well with our students. Foundation term classes include reading, writing, math, and a course called "College Survival and Success." These four classes must be passed with a "C" or better. Students also participate in a two-hour academic lab each week.
During the Foundation term, students build their academic skills and learn how to become successful college students. They explore career options in order to choose a pathway or career major for their studies. Resource specialists support students every step of the way, providing individualized advising and tools for success. Instructors and resource specialists work as a team to provide students with the help they need.
Transitioning to the comprehensive campus
After successfully completing the Foundation term, Gateway to College students take classes with the general college population. All courses are college classes, taught by college faculty. With the help of their resource specialist and their individualized learning plan, students take classes that allow them to earn the high school credits they need to complete their diploma requirements, while also earning college credits toward their pathway goals. Students find college life exciting and supportive of their needs. Schedules are flexible, so students can work while they are in Gateway to College. All of the resources of the college are open to Gateway participants, because they are enrolled as regular college students. Resource specialists continue to support students throughout their years in the program.
Students in good standing remain in Gateway to College until they earn their high school diploma, or until they turn 21. All students are provided with a plan to continue toward their goals, including help with financial aid and scholarships. Depending on the number of credits needed and a student's age at entry, it can take two or three years to complete the diploma, but students earn significant college credit at the same time.
Find out more about Gateway to College!
- For application information for the Gateway to College program or for contact information at Gateway to College sites, click here.
- Click here for answers to Frequently Asked Questions.
Gateway to College National Network
Portland Community College, Southeast Center
Mt. Scott Hall, Room 106
2305 SE 82nd Ave.,
Portland, OR 97216
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