The University of New England and Kennebunk High School signed an agreement that enables high-performing KHS students who matriculate at UNE to earn college transfer credits, potentially enabling the students to earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years.
The agreement, signed by representatives from the two institutions during a Kennebunk School Board meeting on March 20, gives Kennebunk High graduates the opportunity to receive course credit at UNE, if accepted to the university, via two different routes: Advanced Placement exams and International Baccalaureate exams.
If students’ scores meet the qualifying thresholds, they can earn between three and eight transfer credits per exam. Those students who are able to transfer a minimum of 30 credits, through any combination of the two exams, may enroll at UNE, if accepted, with sophomore standing.
“This agreement provides a chance for high-achieving Kennebunk High School students to enter college with a significant number of credits under their belts — not to mention up to a 25% cost savings on tuition,” said UNE President Danielle Ripich. “And it offers UNE a greater opportunity to attract Maine’s best and brightest students. It’s certainly a mutually beneficial arrangement and we’re looking forward to welcoming Kennebunk’s top-notch students to UNE.”