Early College High School & College Link

Early College High School program (ECHS)

The Early College High School program (ECHS) offerings are a great way for High School students to gain college experience and credit in a supported setting.

What is ECHS?

How Does ECHS work?

Benefits

TACS College Link

College Application & FAFSA

What is an Early College High School (ECHS)?

An Early College High School (ECHS) is a program that partners with a community college or university, giving students the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and college credits—potentially even an associate degree—in four years or less.

This model creates a seamless transition to higher education, helping students build essential college-level skills while receiving strong academic support.

ECHS at Taos Academy

At Taos Academy, our ECHS & Dual Credit programs allow students to:

  • Earn high school credits while also earning college credits through the University of New Mexico – Taos.

  • Experience real college coursework while still in high school.

  • Graduate with a strong academic advantage and a head start toward a degree.

How It Works

  • Dual Enrollment: Students are enrolled in both high school and college, taking courses at each level.
  • College-Level Learning: Students gain early exposure to college coursework while learning time management and study skills.
  • Credit Transfer: Credits earned through ECHS often transfer more smoothly to four-year universities compared to AP or IB credits.
  • Supportive Environment: Built-in academic and personal support helps students succeed with higher-level work.

Benefits of an Early College Program

  • Earn College Credit: Students can graduate high school with substantial credits—or even an associate degree.
  • Save on Tuition: Earning credits early reduces the cost and time needed for a bachelor’s degree.
  • Increase College Readiness: Students develop the study skills and confidence needed for success in higher education.
  • Gain an Academic Advantage: Graduates often enter four-year universities ahead, either as freshmen with advanced standing or as transfer students with a year or more of credits already completed.

College Link

The Taos Academy College Link (CL) program serves as a support for participating dual credit students.  It is open to eligible juniors and seniors with 3.0 GPA or higher.  College Link students develop an individualized class schedule with their CL Advisor and may attend UNM-Taos campus classes during the week (Monday-Saturday).

 

The flexible nature of our CL program was created to allow students more class choices throughout the week. Therefore, students are held accountable for demonstrated self-direction and motivation while successfully observing both UNM and Taos Academy academic requirements and school policies.

 

College Appication and FAFSA

FAFSA Assistance

Seniors and their families can receive personalized FAFSA assistance with advisors from UNM–Taos. This support is designed to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

You can also begin the application on your own at the official FAFSA website: https://fafsa.ed.gov/

Completing the FAFSA is required of all college students.

FAFSA deadlines

  • For the school year 2025-26, the federal deadline to submit the FAFSA is June 30, 2026.

FAFSA

Application Form
FAFSA Online

💡 Tip: Even if you think you may not qualify for aid, it’s important to complete the FAFSA. Many scholarships and colleges use the FAFSA as part of their financial aid process.

Why FAFSA Matters

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for all students planning to attend college. The FAFSA:

  • Determines eligibility for federal and state grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans.

  • Is required by most colleges and universities in order to qualify for scholarships and institutional aid.

  • Should be submitted as early as possible, since some funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

Getting Started

  1. Contact a UNM-Taos FAFSA advisor OR

  2. Create an FSA ID at studentaid.gov (both student and parent will need one).

  3. Gather necessary documents such as Social Security numbers, tax returns, and bank statements.

  4. Submit your FAFSA as soon as it opens on October 1st (for the following academic year).

  5. Follow up with your college’s financial aid office to ensure they have received your FAFSA information.

 

Find out more…

For more information:

At Taos Academy, our Early College High School (ECHS) program partners with UNM–Taos, CNM, and other institutions to give students a head start on their college journey.

For additional resources, visit the

📢 Don’t forget to check your Google Classrooms regularly for updates, announcements, and important ECHS information specific to Taos Academy.

 

If you have any questions, contact:

Kelci Pike, Dual-Credit Coordinator        kpike@taosacademy.org

Patricia Meagher, College Link Advisor pmeagher@taosacademy.org