Start College Now
Your Guide to Starting College Early
Start College Now gives eligible high school juniors and seniors the chance to take real Mid-State courses—either on campus or online—taught by Mid-State faculty. Through this Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) program, your school district covers the cost of approved courses, which means you can get a head start on college for free.
- Try out a field of interest.
- Challenge yourself and build confidence.
- Earn both high school and college credit at the same time.
- Make progress toward a Mid-State program or another college degree.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Follow the instructions below to get started. Already signed up for a course through Start College Now? Prepare by attending Start College Now Orientation.
How to Participate
Getting started with Start College Now is simple. To take just a course or two, follow the steps below. If you’re ready to start a Mid-State Program, check out the Mid-State Fast-Track program.
Step 1: Know the Deadlines
Submit your Start College Now application to Mid-State by:
- March 1 for the following fall semester
- October 1 for the following spring semester
Applications submitted after these dates can’t be considered.
Step 2: Complete the Start College Now Application
Download and fill out Mid-State’s Start College Now Application (PDF) .You’ll need to include your desired course number(s) and term start date.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit your signed Start College Now application to your high school counselor. Your counselor will guide you through next steps and ensure it goes to the school board for approval.
Step 4: Watch for Approval and Next Steps
After approval, your Start College Now documents will come to Mid-State. Watch for an email with confirmation and next steps from your Mid-State outreach coordinator.
H2: Get Help with Start College Now [NEED FORM]
Want help getting started or exploring Start College Now at Mid-State?
Complete the form below, and our team will reach out with next steps.
Fields:
- Name
- Message
CTA Button: Submit
Start College Now Orientation
You’re already ahead by taking a Mid-State college course while still in high school. Now make sure you’re fully prepared for success by attending a required Start College Now orientation.
At this orientation, you will:
- Log in to your Mid-State Blackboard and email accounts.
- Locate your class syllabus and course details.
- Pick up class textbooks and supplies.
- Learn how to access your grades.
- Discover how your class will transfer and how to request a transcript.
Contact Alyssa Ede or Kaitlyn Gessert with any questions about this event.
Register for Orientation
No current upcoming events.
If you need accommodations to participate, we’re happy to help. Please contact the event coordinator as soon as possible—ideally 14 days before the event.
Know the Rules of Start College Now
Get the full details on eligibility, responsibilities, and requirements for Start College Now. Make sure you’re following the correct steps and using Mid-State’s official Start College Now Application (PDF).
More Ways to Earn Credit in High School
High school students have more ways than ever to get ahead at Mid-State. Explore all the college credit opportunities available to you. Each option helps you save money, build confidence, and start college with momentum.
