Earn college credit while still in high school! Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) offers several pathways for high school juniors and seniors (and qualified underclassmen) to get a head start on a college degree or career credential.
Academic Pathways
1. Dual Enrollment
Take college classes at your high school or at a Mountain Gateway Community College location during the regular school day.
Dual enrollment courses are taught at your high school by high school teachers who serve as MGCC adjunct faculty or at MGCC by one of the college's instructors.
- Benefits: Saves money—in most cases, students pay no out-of-pocket costs.
- Course Availability: Options vary by high school. Check with your high school counseling department for available courses.
Eligibility & Requirements:
- High school junior or senior (freshmen and sophomores may apply for an exception).
- Permission from parent/guardian and high school counselor.
- Meet MGCC admissions criteria and course prerequisites.
Dual Enrollment Contact: Ann Courtney | Phone: (540) 863-2825 | Email: acourtney@mgcc.edu
2. Concurrent Enrollment
Take classes directly on the MGCC campus or online with college faculty.
Concurrent enrollment allows you to remain a full-time high school student while taking part-time college courses through MGCC. To discuss this option, please reach out to MGCC Student Services: (540) 863-2820
3. Jackson River Governor’s School
Advanced STEM education for motivated students.
A specialized regional program housed at MGCC for high school students seeking advanced college-level coursework in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). If you are interested in applying to the Jackson River Governor's School, please review the information on the JRGS page.
Special Admissions: Home-Schooled Students
MGCC welcomes homeschooled students (typically age 16 or older) who wish to pursue concurrent enrollment or college courses.
Admissions Steps for Homeschooled Students:
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Submit Agreement: Provide a current copy of the signed homeschooling agreement between your parent/guardian and local school system. (Students without a formal agreement must generally be 18+ or demonstrate college readiness via test scores).
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Apply Online: Complete the free MGCC Online Application.
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Placement & Testing: Complete the Virginia Placement Test (VPT) for Math and English, or submit qualifying SAT/ACT scores.
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Academic Advising: Meet with an MGCC advisor to select your classes.
Homeschool Admissions Contact: Student Services | Phone: (540) 863-2820
High School Student Support Services
MGCC Career Coaches
Located directly in local high schools and in Student Services at Mountain Gateway, MGCC Career Coaches help you explore career paths matching your interests and strengths.
How Career Coaches Help:
- One-on-one career assessments and personalized planning.
- Resume building, cover letter writing, and mock job interviews.
- Exploration of career options, internships, and job shadowing.
- Guidance on financial aid, college applications, and technical credentials.
Educational Talent Search (TRiO)
A free program for middle and high school students (grades 7–12), TRIO Talent Search is designed to build academic confidence, assist with college planning, and prepare potential first-generation college students for higher education success.