1. No category

2014-2015
High School Counselor
Dual Enrollment/Early Admission Manual
www.fgcu.edu/ACE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Dual Enrollment and Early Admission at FGCU …………………………………………………………………. 1
Admission Criteria ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 1
New Student Admission and Enrollment Process …………………………………………………………….
2
Returning Student Registration Process …………………………………………………………………………..
5
Student Grades and Transcripts………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
Costs and Fees …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6
Calendar of Important FGCU Dates ……………………………………………………………………………..
7
Math Placement ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
8
FGCU General Education Program ……………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Communication and Computation Skills Requirement ……………………………………………………… 12
Florida Virtual School ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
12
Service Learning ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
12
ACE Honors Program ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
12
Class and Program Withdrawal …………………………………………………………………………………………
12
Repeat of Courses ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
13
Transition to FGCU Following Graduation ………………………………………………………………………..
13
ACE Scholarships ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
13
FERPA ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
14
Participation in High School Activities ………………………………………………………………………………. 14
List of FGCU Majors.…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
15
Music Major Restrictions ………………………………………………………………………………………………
15
Counselor FAQs ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
16
Contact Information ………………………………………………………….……………………………………………..
20
Fall 2014
Dear High School Counselor,
Florida Gulf Coast University offers an exceptional opportunity to qualified high school juniors and seniors
through the Accelerated Collegiate Experience (ACE). Students in the ACE program seek a higher-level
educational experience, access to highly qualified professors, state-of-the-art laboratories, university–level
support resources and outstanding, rigorous curriculum. With an office that exclusively serves high school
students, FGCU offers ACE students guidance from a professional staff that is dedicated to student success.
The program offers: 1) access to faculty who mentor and teach classes cohorted for ACE students; 2)
dedicated academic advising; 3) high-impact service opportunities; 4) opportunities for research and other
projects, and; 5) special programming that enhances leadership skills and appreciation of learning.
Whether taking classes part-time or full-time, ACE students become reflective learners and leaders,
equipped for new and future challenges. They become engaged intellectually and socially, ready to make a
difference in their world.
This manual is intended to provide information to assist you with your current and future FGCU dual
enrollment and early admission students. Please let us know how we can improve it. Thank you for
recommending FGCU’s ACE program to your highly qualified students…and as always,
Thank you for what you do for ALL students in our community!
Alice Mcleod Brunner, Director
Accelerated Collegiate Experience
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Students in the ACE program may take classes either on a part-time or full-time basis. If seeking
part-time enrollment, the student must be admitted as a “dual enrollment” student. The
student is restricted to taking 11 credit hours or less and is registered in other courses at the
high school or through FLVS. No more than 6 credits will be permitted in the summer term.
EARLY ADMISSION
Students who seek full-time status must apply as “early admission”. Full-time status requires a
minimum course load of 12 credit hours and the student takes all coursework at FGCU. No
more than 16 credits will be permitted in the fall and spring terms and no more than 6 credits is
permitted in summer terms.
ADMISSION CRITERIA
Both dual enrollment and early admission students who have expressed an interest in enrolling
in the ACE program must meet the following criteria:
 Have completed a minimum of 4 semesters in high school
 Have a 3.7 grade point average (weighted)
 Not have completed sufficient units to qualify for high school graduation and must apply
all credits earned to meeting high school graduation requirements and University
criteria. (Students may need to take additional courses in order to qualify for the Bright
Futures Scholarship Program)
 Have the approval of parents and the high school
 Test scores on the ACE of 23 composite or higher (including combined English and
writing of 20 or higher) or 1600 or higher on the SAT (total of critical reading, math and
writing), AND
 A minimum SAT critical reading score of 500, writing score of 500 and math score of 500
or minimum ACT scores of 20 for English, 20 for math and 20 for reading
 Have the approval of the FGCU Director of Undergraduate Admissions
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THE ADMISSION AND ENROLLMENT PROCESS
All students who are interested in applying for the ACE program are asked to first make an
appointment to meet with their high school counselor to determine eligibility. If recommended
for the ACE Program, the counselor will complete the High School Graduation Checklist and
sign the ACE Program Authorization Form which signifies the counselor’s recommendation for
the student to apply as a dual enrolled or early admitted student. Letters of recommendation
are not required.
FORMS NEEDED:
STEP 1
Meet with
school counselor
•ACE Program Authorization Form
•High School Graduation Checklist
STUDENT ACTIONS:





Complete and print forms
Schedule appointment with school counselor
Complete High School Graduation Checklist with
counselor
Complete ACE Program Authorization Form
Request official transcripts and test scores to be
sent to FGCU
After meeting with the high school counselor, the student is ready to apply. All forms in the
ACE application package may be found on our website: www.fgcu.edu/ACE . Students are
encouraged to take the ACT or SAT early. An official transcript is required. No faxed or scanned
transcripts will be accepted. Transcripts must be sent directly from the high school to FGCU
OR may be submitted by the student in a sealed high school envelop with a high school stamp
across the seal. Test scores appearing on the official transcript that have an administrated date
will be considered official. All application materials should be sent directly to the attention of
Sandra Moore in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at least 2 weeks prior to the decision
deadline of the semester in which the student wishes to enroll (see calendar for decision
deadlines). Questions about admission should be directed to the Office of Undergraduate
Admissions at (239) 590-7878, or toll free at (888) 889-1095 or by email: admissions@fgcu.edu.
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FORMS and DOCUMENTS NEEDED:
STUDENT ACTIONS:

Step 2
•ACE Application
•Signed ACE Program Authorization
•Signed Memo of Understanding
•Signed Third Party Authorization
•Official High School Transcripts
•Official ACT or SAT Scores
ACE Application
Submit completed application package to the
attention of Sandra Moore:
Florida Gulf Coast University
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, FL 33965-6565
Completed application package must be received at least 2 weeks prior to
ACE decision deadlines
Once a student has received their University Identification Number (UIN) they may turn in
required immunization documentation:
FORMS NEEDED:
Step 3
Submit Immunization
Documentation
•FGCU Immunization Form or
•Official doctor's verification
STUDENT ACTIONS:
 Complete the FGCU Immunization Form OR
 Submit official vaccine documents
Send all immunization documents directly to the FGCU Student Health
Services Office. Please refer to their website for details:
www.fgcu.edu/studenthealth/immunizations.
REGISTRATION CANNOT OCCUR WITHOUT COMPLETED IMMUNIZATION
DOCUMENTS
Once admitted, the ACE academic advisor will contact the student for intake, advising and
course registration. The student will be asked to complete intake forms and must be registered
for orientation (not attended) prior to registration for classes. All intake forms are to be sent
directly to the ACE academic advisor. The ACE academic advisor will determine course selection
based upon: 1) high school graduation requirements; 2) General Education requirements; and
3) major-related course sequences. All ACE students receive priority registration. After
registration the academic advisor will send the student’s schedule to the high school counselor
for final approval. If changes need to be made, the high school counselor will contact the ACE
academic advisor who will make requested adjustments to the student’s schedule. A
recommendation by the ACE advisor to take the Math Placement Test at FGCU may be made
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prior to registration for a math course (see section on Math Placement). There is a fee of
$25.00 for the Math Placement Test.
FORMS NEEDED:
•Completed H/S Graduation Checklist
•Completed Acceleration Credit Form
•Completed ACE Intake Form
Step 4
STUDENT ACTIONS:

Submit completed intake forms to ACE
academic advisor
Complete intake consultation with ACE
academic advisor

Intake and
Academic Advising
•No Form Required
Step 5 (optional)

Schedule appointment to take the Math
Placement Test (if needed)
Math Placement
Testing
Students will be instructed to register for Eagle View Orientation, a one day session at which
time they will be introduced to FGCU resources and services, obtain their FGCU ID card and
meet with the ACE director and academic advisor. Students will be required to pay a $35.00
orientation fee prior to their scheduled date. The orientation program is a full day and all ACE
students are required to attend. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend; there is a guest fee
of $14.00 fee payable on the day of orientation.
FORMS NEEDED:
STUDENT ACTIONS:

Step 6
•Eagle View Orientation Fee Agreement Form

Submit Orientation Fee
Agreement
Attend Eagle View Orientation
Eagle View
Orientation
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RETURNING STUDENT REGISTRATION PROCESS
Prior to registration for the next term, returning ACE students are asked to first meet with their
high school counselor to update the High School Graduation Checklist including all graduating
seniors. The ACE academic advisor will review the checklist and assist the student with
registration. The student’s schedule will be sent to the high school counselor for final approval.
If changes need to be made, the high school counselor will contact the ACE academic advisor
who will make requested adjustments to the student’s schedule.
STUDENT GRADES AND TRANSCRIPTS
Final semester grades will be forwarded as soon as they have been posted to the student’s
FGCU academic record. A scanned copy of the student’s transcript will be emailed to the high
school counseling office director. A student must maintain a 2.5 term GPA and a 2.5 cumulative
FGCU institutional GPA.
FGCU Unofficial Transcript
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FEES and COSTS
Students will not pay tuition, and laboratory fees are waived. However students will be
responsible for:
 Orientation Fee
$35.00
 Parent Orientation Fee $14.00/person
 Math Placement Fee
$25.00 (only if taking the test and payable at the time of
testing)
Other costs that should be considered:
 Transportation and gas
 Meals
 Calculators
 Recommended books and materials (school districts will pay for required texts)
 Photocopies
 FGCU “gear”
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Important FGCU Calendar Dates
FALL 2014
Fall courses begin
Last day to change courses
August 18, 2014
August 22. 2014
Labor Day observed (no classes)
Last day with withdraw from a class with permission
September 1, 2014
October 31, 2014
Veteran’s Day observed (no classes)
November 11, 2014
Thanksgiving observed (no classes)
November 26 – 29, 2014
Last day of classes
December 5, 2014
FINALS BEGIN
December 8, 2014
Winter break observed
December 26 – January 1 2015
Fall grades sent to the high school counselor
January 3, 2015
SPRING 2015
ACE SPRING DECISION DEADLINE
October 15, 2014
ACE course registration begins for spring
October TBA
Classes begin
January 5, 2015
Last day to add or drop a course
Martin Luther King Holiday Observed
January 9, 2015
January 19, 2015
SPRING BREAK
March 2 – March 7 2015
Last day with withdraw from a class with permission
March 27, 2015
Last day of classes
April 27, 2015
FINALS BEGIN
April 28, 2015
Fall grades sent to the high school counselor
May 2015
*Dates are subject to change
**For the entire FGCU academic calendar please refer to:
http://www.fgcu.edu/registrar/academiccalendar.asp
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MATH PLACEMENT
Placement into math courses at FGCU is determined by the FGCU Math Placement Matrix.
Students will be initially placed into math based upon SAT/ACT math scores on record. A math
subscore of 550 or above on the SAT or math subscore of 24 on the ACT will place students in
College Algebra, Finite Math, General Math or Statistical Methods. Higher level course
placement may need further testing through the Math Placement Test which is given through
FGCU’s Testing and Assessment Center. The student may take an Elementary Algebra (EA) or
College Level Math (CLM) assessment at the recommendation of the ACE academic advisor.
The ACE academic advisor will assist the student in determining whether a math placement test
should be taken and in scheduling the student for the test. Students will be directed to contact
the FGCU Testing and Assessment Center to schedule a testing appointment. There is a fee of
$25.00 due at the time of testing.
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GENERAL EDUCATION
The General Education Program at FGCU is designed to offer a wide array of courses across five
discipline areas that support the university mission and guiding principles. The program is
developed and approved by program faculty. Students seeking a bachelor’s degree at FGCU
must complete the General Education Program as part of their degree requirements. Many of
the courses are used to satisfy high school graduation requirements. Students may also satisfy
general education courses with approved IB, AICE, CLEP or AP scores.
FGCU General Education Program
COMMUNICATION (6 credits)
SOCIAL SCIENCE (6-9 credits)

ENC 1101 Composition I (W) (3)
Two to three of the following courses:

ENC 1102 Composition II (W) (3)

AFA 2000 Intro to African & Diaspora Studies (W) (3)

AFS 2250 Culture & Society in Africa (3)

AMH 2010 US History to 1877 (W) (3)

AMH 2020 US History since 1877 (W) (3)

ANT 2000 Intro to Anthropology (3)
Plus one of the following courses:

ANT 2100 Intro to Archaeology (3)

MAC 1105 College Algebra (3)

ANT 2211 Peoples of the World (W) (3)

MAC 1147 Precalculus (4)

ANT 2410 Cultural Anthropology (3)

MAC 2157 Analytic Geometry with Trigonometry (3)

ASH 1301 History of East Asia (3)

MAC 2233 Elementary Calculus (3)

ASH 1320 History of South Asia (3)

MAC 2311 Calculus I (4)

ASN 2005 Intro to Asian Studies (3)

MAC 2312 Calculus II (4)

CPO 2001 Intro to Comparative Politics (3)

MAC 2313 Calculus III (4)

DEP 2004 Principles of Development (3)

MGF 1106 Finite Mathematics (3)

ECO 1000 Survey of Economics (3)

MGF 1107 General Mathematics (3)

ECO 2013 Principles of Macro Economics (3)

MHF 2310 Symbolic Logic (3)

ECO 2023 Principles of Micro Economics (3)

STA 2122 Social Science Statistics (3)

EUH 1000 The Western Tradition, Part I (3)

EUH 1001 The Western Tradition, Part II (3)

EUH 2011 Ancient European History (3)

EUH 2012 Roman Republic and Empire (3)

EUH 2015 Classical Greece (3)

EUH 2021 Medieval European History (3)

EUH 2031 Modern European History (3)
MATHEMATICS (6 credits)
One of the following courses:

STA 2023 Statistical Methods (3)

STA 2037 Statistics with Calculus (3)
HUMANITIES
 SOCIAL
GEA 2000
Intro to
(3)
SCIENCE
- Geography
CONTINUED

GEY 2000 Aging and the Life Course (3)

HSC 2106 Choosing Wellness (3)

HSC 2130 Holistic Health: Self Care (3)
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HUMANITIES (9 credits)
The following course:

HUM 2510 Understanding Visual & Performing Arts (3)
Plus any two of the following courses:

AML 2010 Literature & Culture of the US I (3)

AML 2020 Literature & Culture of the US II (3)

ARH 2050 History of the Visual Arts I (3)

ARH 2051 History of the Visual Arts II (3)

ARH 2500 Survey of Non-Western Art (3)

CRW 2001 Intro to Creative Writing (W) (3)

CRW 2732 Intro to Nature Writing (W) (3)

ENL 2012 British Literature & Culture I (3)

ENL 2022 British Literature & Culture II (3)

FIL 2000 Introduction to Film (3)

HUM 1931 Humanities and Social Issues (3)

HUM 2395 Environmental Humanities (3)

HUM 2930 Intro to Humanities (3)

IDH 2931 Honors Humanities Seminar (W) (3)

IDH 2933 Honors Great Books: Humanities (W) (3)

LIT 2000 Intro to Literature (W) (3)

LIT 2110 World Literature & Culture I (3)

LIT 2120 World Literature & Culture II (3)

MMC 2604 News Literacy (3)

MMC 2604L News Literacy Recitation (0)

MUH 2512 World Music Cultures (3)

MUL 2110 Intro to Music Literature (3)

PHI 2000 Intro to Philosophy (W) (3)

PHI 2016 Philosophy through Film (3)

REL 2306 Contemporary World Religions (3)

SPC 1017 Fundamentals of Communication (3)

SPT 2721 Latino Culture & Society (3)

THE 2020 Intro to Theatre (3)

THE 2300 Survey of Dramatic Literature (3)
SOCIAL SCIENCE – continued

IDH 2932 Honors Great Books: Social Sciences
(W) (3)

IDS 1356 Applied Critical Thinking (3)

INR 2005 Peace & Conflict in the Public Sphere (3)

INR 2015 Global Studies (3)

ISS 2011 Interdisciplinary Social Sciences (3)

ISS 2200 Intro to International Studies (3)

LAH 2020 Intro to Latin American History (3)

LAS 2000 Intro to Latin American Studies (W) (3)

MAN 2062 Ethical Issues (3)

POS 2041 American National Government (3)

POS 2112 State & Local Government & Politics (3)

PSY 2012 General Psychology (3)

SOP 2770 Introduction to Human Sexuality (3)

SOW 2130 Diversity Consciousness (3)

SYG 2000 Introduction to Sociology (3)

SYG 2010 Social Problems (3)

SYG 2012 Comp Sociology-Global Issues (3)

SYG 2220 Intro to Gender Studies (3)

SYG 2231 Intro to African-American Studies (3)

SYG 2250 Multicultural Issues (3)

SYG 2442 Sociology of Sport (3)

WOH 1023 World Civ 1500 -1815 (W) (3)

WOH 1030 World Civ since 1815 (W) (3)
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NATURAL SCIENCE ( 6-9 credits)
Two to three of the following courses (at least one course with a “C” or “L” designation):

ANT 2511C Intro to Physical Anthropology (3)

AST 2002C Intro to Space Science (3)

AST 2004C Stellar Astronomy (4)

AST 2005C Intro to Astrobiology (3)

AST 2100C Solar System Astronomy (4)

BOT 2800 Plants and Society (3)

BSC 1005 Biological Science (3)

BSC 1005L Biological Science Lab (1)

BSC 1010 General Biology I (3)

BSC 1010L General Biology I Lab (1)

BSC 1010C General Biology w/Lab I (4)

BSC 1011 General Biology II (3)

BSC 1011L General Biology II Lab (1)

BSC 1011C General Biology w/Lab II (4)

BSC 1020C Human Systems (3)

BSC 1051C Environmental Biology-SW Florida (3)

BSC 1085C Human Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab I (4)

BSC 1086C Human Anatomy & Physiology w/Lab II (4)

BSC 2024C Human Species (3)

BSC 2026 Biology of Human Sexuality (3)

BSC 2300C Biological Systems I (4)

CHM 1045 General Chemistry I (3)

CHM 1045L General Chemistry I Laboratory (1)

CHM 1045C General Chemistry I w/Lab (4)

CHM 1046 General Chemistry II (3)

CHM 1046L General Chemistry II Lab (1)

CHM 1046C General Chemistry w/Lab II (4)

CHM 1084C Environmental Chemistry (4)

CHM 2210 Organic Chemistry I (3)

CHM 2210L Organic Chemistry I Lab (1)

CHM 2210C Organic Chemistry w/Lab I (4)

CHM 2211 Organic Chemistry II (3)

CHM 2211L Organic Chemistry II Lab (1)

CHM 2211C Organic Chemistry w/Lab II (4)

EVR 1001C Intro to Environmental Science (3)

EVR 2264 Environmental Health (3)

GLY 1000 Physical Geology (3)

GLY 1000L Physical Geology Lab (1)

GLY 1000C Physical Geology (4)

GLY 2030C Environmental Geology (3)

GLY 2100C Historical Geology (3)

ISC 1002C Systems of Physical Science (3)

ISC 2930 Selected Topics in Interdisciplinary Science (3)

MCB 1000C Microbes and Society (3)

MCB 2010C Microbiology w/Lab (4)

OCE 1001C Marine Systems (3)

PCB 2336 Human Genetics (3)

PHY 2020 Conceptual Physics (3)

PHY 2048C General Physics w/Lab I (4)

PHY 2049C General Physics w/Lab II (4)

PHY 2053C College Physics w/Lab I (4)

PHY 2054C College Physics w/Lab II (4)
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COMMUNICATION AND COMPUTATION SKILLS REQUIREMENTS
Students who wish to complete the Associate of Arts degree or Baccalaureate degree must
satisfy the Communication and Computation Skills requirement. Demonstrated mastery in
college-level writing is assessed in four writing intensive courses (12 credits). Courses that are
writing intensive are noted with a “(W)” on the General Education Program sheet. In order to
earn writing credit, the student must earn a grade of “C” or better in all four writing intensive
courses. Students must earn a grade of “C” or better in two math-intensive courses (6 credits)
to fulfill the computation skills requirement.
FLORIDA VIRTUAL SCHOOL
Early admission students may elect to take Florida Virtual School classes if approved by the high
school counselor. FLVS courses do not count toward the full-time course load at FGCU and
would be in addition to the FGCU classes. Counselors are asked to note what FLVS classes the
student is/will be taking on the High School Graduation Checklist so that all parties can consider
the student’s total course load.
SERVICE LEARNING
Service learning is encouraged for ACE students and many students take courses that require
service as part of the class requirement. There are opportunities for students to complete
service activities with their ACE peers, as well as on an individual basis. All service approved
and submitted through the FGCU Office of Service Learning and Civic Engagement will appear
on the student’s FGCU transcript. FGCU service hours are acceptable for Bright Futures service
requirements.
ACE HONORS PROGRAM
One of the advantages of the ACE program is the integration with the FGCU Honors Program.
Full-time enrolled high school juniors who are interested in pursuing advanced scholastic work
and research may meet criteria to be admitted to the FGCU Honors Program as ACE Honors
students in their high school senior year. Honors classes are taught by Honors Fellows and are
restricted to Honors students. Courses are designed to stimulate critical thinking and analysis
and allow for research, service, and cultural immersion experiences. Students seeking ACE
Honors should notify the ACE director for criteria.
CLASS/PROGRAM WITHDRAWAL
ACE students may not withdraw from a class unless there are extenuating circumstances
approved by both the ACE director and the high school counselor. Counselors are asked to
notify the ACE director if the student is undergoing unusual circumstances that would impact
academic work. Approved withdrawals must be completed by the FGCU deadline for course
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withdrawal or the student must petition directly to the college for a late withdrawal. Approved
withdrawals will result in a “W” grade which does not calculate in the GPA.
REPEAT OF COURSES
Students may not repeat the same course for grade forgiveness or any other purpose while an
ACE student. Students may repeat a course for grade forgiveness if the course is taken at FGCU
after high school graduation.
TRANSITION TO FGCU FOLLOWING HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
It is always great to hear that students want to stay at FGCU after completing high school
graduation requirements! Full-time early admission students need only notify the ACE director
regarding their desire to stay. No application is required, but a final high school transcript
showing graduation must be sent to the Undergraduate Admission Office. Part-time dual
enrollment students are required to complete a general first-time-in-college application which
may be found on the FGCU Undergraduate Admission website. Students who stay at FGCU will
be transitioned from the ACE program to FGCU College Advising which will require completion
of additional college orientation activities prior to class registration.
ACE SCHOLARSHIPS
FGCU recognizes the benefits of students entering the University after successful completion of
the Accelerated Collegiate Experience program.
ACE Honors Graduates will receive upon high school graduation and successful completion of
the ACE Honors Program:
 $5,ooo.oo per year renewable for three years
Beginning eligibility is the term following high school graduation (excluding summer).
The scholarship will not duplicate another FGCU merit based scholarship or waiver. If the
student is entitled to multiple awards, the highest award will be provided.
Eligibility:
 The student must be a US citizen or meet requirements of an eligible non-citizen as
defined by the Federal Student Aid Program.
 The student must have a 3.9 cumulative high school GPA and 1850 on the SAT or 28 on
the ACT OR be recommended by the ACE Director.
 The student must have earned a minimum of 24 credits at FGCU.
 The student must apply for the scholarship through the ACE office by the published
deadline. The scholarship will be awarded once high school graduation certification has
been received.
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Criteria for Renewal:
 Students must maintain full-time academic enrollment at FGCU.
 Students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative grade point average and complete a minimum
of 24 credits each academic year towards their chosen degree program.
ACE Dual Enrollment and Early Admission (non-honors) will receive upon high school
graduation and admission to FGCU:
 $2,000.00 per year renewable for three years
Beginning eligibility is the term following high school graduation (excluding summer).
The scholarship will not duplicate another FGCU merit based scholarship. If the student is
entitled to multiple awards, the highest award will be provided.
Eligibility:
 The student must be a US citizen or meet requirements of an eligible non-citizen as
defined by the Federal Student Aid Program.
 The student must have a cumulative FGCU GPA of at least 3.0 and have completed a
minimum of 12 credits hours at FGCU.
 Students must apply for the scholarship through the ACE office by the published
deadline. The scholarship will be awarded once high school graduation certification has
been received and FGCU GPA verified.
Criteria for renewal:
 Students must maintain full-time academic enrollment at FGCU.
 Students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA and complete a minimum of 24 credits
each academic year towards their chosen degree program.
FERPA
Once students matriculate at the university, academic records are protected from third party
access unless a release is signed by the student. ACE students are required to sign the Third
Party Authorization Form as part of the admission package. Authorization by the student will
allow academic information to be sent to parents and the high school.
PARTICIPATION IN HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Full-time students are permitted to participate in after-school activities and are encouraged to
discuss high school activities with the high school counselor. Effort will be made to
accommodate all activities at the high school, but course schedules may prohibit participation.
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LIST OF FGCU MAJORS:
Accounting (B.S.)
Health Science (B.S.)
Anthropology (B.A.)
History (B.A.)
Art (B.A.)
Journalism (B.A.)
Athletic Training (B.S.A.T.)
Legal Studies (B.S.)
Bioengineering (B.S.)
Management (B.S.)
Biology (B.A.)
Marine Science (B.S.)
Biology-Accelerated (B.S.)
Marketing (B.S.)
Biotechnology (B.S.)
Mathematics (B.A.)
Chemistry (B.A.)
Mathematics (B.S.)
Child and Youth Studies (B.S.)
Music Education (B.M.E)
Civil Engineering (B.S.C.E.)
Music - Performance (B.A.)
Clinical Laboratory Science (B.S.)
Nursing (B.S.N.)
Communication (B.A.)
PGA Golf Management (B.S.)
Community Health (B.S.)
Philosophy (B.A.)
Computer Information Systems (B.S.)
Political Science (B.A.)
Criminal Justice (B.S.)
Psychology (B.A.)
Early Childhood Education (B.A.)
Resort & Hospitality Management (B.S.)
Economics (B.S.)
Secondary Biology Education (B.A.)
Elementary Education (B.A.)
Secondary Mathematics Education (B.A.)
English (B.A.)
Secondary Social Science Education (B.A.)
Environmental Engineering (B.S.Env.E.)
Social Work (B.S.W.)
Environmental Studies (B.A.)
Sociology (B.A.)
Exercise Science (B.S.)
Software Engineering (B.S.)
Finance (B.S.)
Special Education (B.A.)
Forensic Studies (B.S.)
Theatre (B.A.)
MUSIC MAJORS
It is not possible to major in music while in the ACE program but students may audition with the
Bower School of Music for participation in FGCU ensembles. Additional information and
ensemble audition dates are available by contacting the Bower School of Music. All full-time
ACE students must take at minimum of 12 credits of core academic classes to meet full-time
status. Additional music classes may not cause the student schedule to exceed 16 credit hours
and are not recorded on the high school transcript.
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Counselors’ Frequently Asked Questions
How involved should I be with a student’s application to ACE?
High school counselors are asked to discuss with the student their eligibility and
readiness to apply for a rigorous program of study at FGCU. The counselor or principal’s
designee must sign the ACE Program Authorization Form and counselors should fully complete
and sign the ACE High School Checklist indicating what courses are remaining to complete the
student’s high school diploma. The counselor may also assist the student in obtaining official
high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores.
Can I send official transcripts from the high school?
Yes, however the transcript MUST be sent in a sealed high school envelope with a stamp
across the seal. The official transcript may be mailed to FGCU or hand carried by the student. It
will be considered official if the envelope seal has not been broken.
Will ACT/SAT scores be considered official if on the high school transcript?
Yes, however the scores must have a corresponding test date and include English/writing
subtest if the student took the ACT.
Will I be alerted when a student from my school has been admitted?
Students admitted to the ACE program will be officially notified by the FGCU Office of
Undergraduate Admissions. The ACE office will notify the director of the high school counseling
office of any admissions, cancellations or deferments of admission.
Will you accept immunization documentation on the high school transcript?
Yes, but hepatitis B and meningitis vaccination is also required. The student may waive
out of those vaccines if the parent signs the waiver located on the FGCU Immunization Form.
When will I get schedules for new ACE students?
As soon as a student is admitted into the ACE program, they will receive information
about the intake process which includes course scheduling and registration as well as
registration for required orientation. They are sent several new documents that must be
completed and returned to the ACE academic advisor before registration can occur. As soon as
all documents are received from the student, the student is registered and a schedule is sent to
the director of the high school counseling office. Registration is not permitted by State mandate
until all required immunization documentation and been received.
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When will I receive schedules from returning students?
All ACE students receive priority registration at FGCU. After receiving the updated high
school checklist and a request for classes from the student, the ACE academic advisor will
register the student as soon as the priority registration opens online. The ACE office needs
several weeks to process changes. Delays in registration may occur due to students not turning
in required documents in a timely manner. Batched schedules will be sent to the director of the
high school counseling office.
 Summer and Fall terms: approximately mid-April
 Spring Term: approximately the 2nd week of November
Do I need to sign a form indicating my approval of classes?
It is no longer required to sign and return a course authorization form. The FGCU course
schedules will be sent to the director of the high school counseling office for dissemination to
respective counselors. If a counselor requests changes, an email to the ACE academic advisor
will result in the change (depending on course availability) and an updated schedule will be sent
to the high school.
When will I receive final grades for students participating in the ACE program?
Student transcripts with course history and grades will be scanned and emailed to the
director of the high school counseling center. Transcripts are sent at the end of each term as
soon as grades are posted (summer term grades are sent at the end of the summer B session in
the beginning of August). Please check the Important Dates section of this manual.
Is a student permitted to withdraw from a course?
Students in ACE are not permitted to withdraw from a class unless there is an
extenuating circumstance and approved by both the ACE director and the high school counselor.
If withdrawal is approved it must occur in the approved University timelines. If a student
withdraws from the program altogether, a Request for Removal from the ACE Program Form
will be sent to the counselor for signature.
Can a student repeat a course while in the ACE program?
No. As long as a student is in ACE, a course cannot be repeated, however, a course may
be repeated at FGCU for grade forgiveness after high school graduation.
Why do I have to complete a graduation check on a student who is graduating at the end of
the term?
While seemingly redundant, it is requested that a final high school graduation checklist
be completed prior to registration for the student’s first semester after high school graduation.
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Will you notify me if a student is having trouble with academics?
Yes, if known. The ACE office does not have access to grades until they become final and
appear on the student’s transcript. It is possible to request that the student submit mid-term
grades from their CANVAS accounts, but professors do not necessarily post mid-term or inprogress grades on this site.
Can a full-time student participate in after-school activities at the high school?
Yes. Students are allowed to participate in after-school activities at their home high
school. Students are advised to consult with their high school counselor regarding any
participation restrictions. If it is determined that activities are interfering with performance in
classes at FGCU, ACE staff will contact the counselor.
Do I need to notify the ACE academic advisor that a student is taking FLVS or other online
class?
Yes. The High School Checklist provides a comment area to inform ACE staff of a
student’s participation in FLVS or other online courses. This information assists with
determining the student’s course load at FGCU.
Are there areas of study at FGCU not recommended for ACE students?
Yes. It is not possible to major in music while an ACE student. It is possible, however for
students to audition for participation in the Bower School of Music ensembles. Once a student
graduates from high school they may apply to the Bower School of Music and if admitted to the
limited access program, declare a music major.
Can students enrolled as part-time dual enrollment change to full-time early admission?
Yes. The student must complete a new ACE Program Authorization Form and submit a
new ACE Program Authorization form with a signature of the high school counselor indicating
approval of the high school to change enrollment status. Enrolled early admission students may
not switch their status to part-time dual enrollment once they have matriculated.
Can FGCU Service Learning hours be used for Bright Futures service requirements?
Yes. ACE students are encouraged to complete service learning hours and may have
service hours to complete in their classes. ACE students may turn in any service hours they have
completed beginning with the day of their admission to the University. Service must be
approved by the FGCU Office of Service Learning and Civic Engagement and completed through
a not-for-profit agency or organization.
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Are ACE students able to take FGCU Honors Program courses?
Yes. High school juniors who begin the ACE program full-time will have the option to
take FGCU Honors courses during their senior year. Students must meet criteria during the
junior year which will include FGCU GPA and test scores.
Are students in ACE able to earn the Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree?
Yes. In some cases, students who have begun the ACE program as a high school junior
(or who have extensive college credit from other accelerated means) will have the ability to
complete requirements of the A.A. degree. Students should inform the ACE academic advisor
early-on of their intention to meet A.A. requirements. The order of priority for scheduling
courses is: high school graduation requirements, major pre-requisites, General Education
Program requirements, and then any additional A.A. degree requirements. Often, there is
overlap between courses that fulfill high school requirements, major prerequisites and General
Education requirements.
Are you able to visit my high school to meet with me or an interested student or parent?
Yes, of course! Please call the ACE director to schedule an appointment. The ACE office
also facilitates on-campus Public Information Meetings that are posted on the ACE website:
www.fgcu.edu/ace. The ACE director is also willing to meet privately with students and parents
on campus. It is imperative that the parent and student fully understand the expectations of the
ACE program; meeting with ACE staff will help provide the information needed to make a
successful decision.
CONTACT INFORMATION
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ACE
Florida Gulf Coast University
Accelerated Collegiate Experience Office
Edwards Hall room 214
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, Florida 33965-6565
239-590-7430
ace@fgccu.edu
www.fgcu.edu/ACE
Undergraduate Admissions
Florida Gulf Coast University
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Howard Hall (main floor)
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, Florida 33965-6565
239-590-7878
888-889-1095
admissions@fgcu.edu
Alice Brunner, Ed.D.
ACE Interim Director
239-590-7869
abrunner@fgcu.edu
Allison Bacigalupi, M.Ed., MBA
ACE Academic Advisor
239-590-1096
abacigalupi@fgcu.edu
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