ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES
The Advanced Placement (AP) Program, administered by the College Board, provides students with the opportunity to engage in rigorous, college-level coursework while still in high school. AP courses strengthen critical thinking, analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and academic writing skills while preparing students for the expectations of higher education. Students who earn qualifying scores on AP examinations may receive college credit or advanced placement at participating colleges and universities, subject to each institution's policies.
AP courses are available to eligible Upper School students based on academic performance, demonstrated readiness, and course prerequisites. Placement considerations may include cumulative GPA, standardized assessment scores, and teacher recommendations. Students enrolled in AP courses are expected to maintain strong academic performance and complete the corresponding AP examinations.
CAMBRIDGE ADVANCED INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (AICE) PROGRAM
The Cambridge International Education Program provides students with a rigorous, internationally recognized college-preparatory curriculum beginning in 9th grade. Cambridge courses emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, research, analytical writing, communication, and independent learning while preparing students for success in college and beyond.
Through Cambridge International AS and A Level courses and examinations, students may earn college credit at participating colleges and universities, subject to institutional policies. Students also have the opportunity to work toward earning the prestigious Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) Diploma, an internationally recognized qualification demonstrating academic achievement across multiple disciplines.
Students who earn the AICE Diploma and meet additional state eligibility requirements may qualify for the Florida Academic Scholars award through the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. This scholarship provides funding for 100% of tuition and applicable fees at eligible Florida public postsecondary institutions. Participation in the Cambridge Program also allows students to strengthen their academic transcripts, develop essential college-readiness skills, and demonstrate their ability to succeed in challenging academic environments.
SCHOLARS PROGRAM: DUAL ENROLLMENT AND ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE PATHWAY
The Scholars Program provides highly motivated and academically dedicated students at Mater Global Scholars Academy with the opportunity to accelerate their postsecondary education while completing their high school diploma requirements. Through a combination of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and Dual Enrollment coursework, eligible students may work toward earning an Associate of Arts (AA) degree from an accredited college while still enrolled in high school.
Dual Enrollment allows qualified students to take college-level courses that satisfy applicable high school graduation requirements while simultaneously earning college credits. This academically rigorous program provides students with early exposure to college expectations, opportunities to reduce future college expenses, and a pathway toward completing postsecondary credentials ahead of schedule.
General eligibility requirements may include a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0, a recommendation from an academic advisor, demonstrated college readiness through approved assessments, and completion of the required application, assessments and enrollment processes. Eighth-grade students without an established GPA may be considered if they have successfully completed at least one high school-level course with a minimum grade of B, provided they meet all other applicable requirements.
Dual Enrollment courses and grades become part of the student's permanent academic record and are reflected on both the high school transcript and the participating college's transcript. Students are expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress and comply with all requirements established by Mater Global Scholars Academy and the partnering postsecondary institution.
