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Gateway to College is a nationally recognized scholarship and dual-credit high school diploma completion program. The program serves students ages 16-20 years of age who would like an educational setting that is individually tailored for student success. Students earn their high school diploma while progressing toward a college certificate or associate degree. Interested students participate in an application, admission and orientation process.
Application and acceptance into Gateway to College at Metropolitan Community College is a multi-step process. Please review and complete each step necessary for your consideration into Gateway to College.
Step 1: Complete the Gateway application - Download and complete the application. Email the completed application to gatewaytocollege@mccneb.edu
Step 2: Attend an information session - All students applying to Gateway to College must attend an information session, complete Math and English placement exams, and participate in an interview as part of the admissions process. All interested students must attend with a parent and/or guardian to continue through the admissions process. Register online or by calling 531-622-2213. Bring your completed application and a copy of your high school transcript to the information session.
Step 3: Student Interview - This interview is conducted by Gateway staff and helps the staff get to know you, gives you the opportunity to ask additional questions about the program and determine if Gateway to College is a good fit for you and your academic goals.
Step 4: English and Math Placement Exams - Students will work with the Gateway Staff to schedule their placement exams at the MCC Testing Center. The placement exams evaluates your skills and readiness for the program. Students will need to bring a photo ID to the testing center and set aside 3-4 hours to complete.
Step 5: Selection committee review - The selection committee, made up of Gateway staff, reviews application materials, and determines an applicant’s acceptance. Students will be notified of their acceptance prior to the beginning of the term they are applying for.
Step 6: Student and Parent Orientation - The final step to Gateway to College acceptance is student/parent orientation. Orientation is offered prior to the start of the term and attendance is mandatory for all first term Gateway to College students. Orientation will provide students and families with the opportunity to meet their new cohort of peers, bond with Gateway Staff and peers, and learn more about strategies for success as they embark on a new journey!
Step 7: Student Bootcamp - The final experience as part of the Gateway to College student onboarding is participation in Bootcamp. Gateway to College Bootcamp focuses on engagement, empowerment, exposure and experiences that allow students to build meaningful relationships with peers, overcome fears, and learn about campus and community resources.
How does the Gateway to College program work?
Students will be assigned to a Gateway to College learning community, consisting of a small cohort of students who take their first term foundation courses (English, Math, and Career and Learning Strategies) together on the MCC Fort Omaha Campus. After successfully completing the foundation term, students will transition into regular college classes selected with the guidance of a resource specialist. All courses taken during transition quarters will be based upon each student’s high school diploma completion plan. Students enrolled in MCC courses will earn both high school and college credit, as they work toward earning a high school diploma.
How long will it take to earn a high school diploma?
The exact length of time to earn a diploma varies by a student’s course load and credit needs. Students remain in Gateway to College until they earn a high school diploma or turn 21.
What support is provided for students on an individual education plan (IEP) or 504 plan?
High school students with documented disabilities who meet the academic and technical standards for participation are eligible to request reasonable accommodations to achieve equal access. The Disability Support Services Staff at MCC is committed to providing access for students with disabilities. If you have questions about our accommodations, contact us, or submit a Disability Support Services Intake Appointment Request form.
What is FERPA and how does it apply to Gateway to College?
If a student under the age of 18 is enrolled in both a high school and a postsecondary institution, their parents still retain the right under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) at the high school, but postsecondary rights belong to the student. Students who wish to grant parental or third-party access to their educational records may do so through the Registrar's Office by submitting an Authorization to Release Student Information Form after course registration is complete. A Gateway to College Resource Specialist can provide assistance.
Are college classes different from high school classes?
Courses offered at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) have college-level content, subject matter, expectations and standards, and students will be held to those standards and graded accordingly.
What additional student resources are available?
MCC offers a variety of student resources including disability support, wellness and mental health, and academic supports.
