High School Articulation Agreements and other Prior Learning Credit for High School Students

Based on the courses and program of study you took in high school, you may be able to apply those experiences to get a jumpstart on your degree, and start college with credits you earned while in high school!  Below are a few ways you may be able to receive credit for prior learning experiences.

AP Scores

The College Board Advanced Placement program (AP) provides participating high schools the opportunity to offer college-level coursework to students in a variety of subject areas. AP scores range from 1 to 5 points. AP scores of 3, 4, 5 are commonly acceptable as the equivalent of college-level course work. Please view the Advanced Placement (AP) Credit Policy at NECC and complete the Advanced Placement (AP) Request form to get started! 

Statewide Articulation Agreements

Some NECC students can earn articulated credits at the college as a result of courses they took in high school which were included in statewide articulation agreements. Classes taken per the agreement between the Massachusetts Community Colleges and Massachusetts Chapter 74 Approved Secondary Career/Vocational Technical Programs allow for students to enroll at any community college and be awarded articulated credits for work completed at the vocational high school level.  

More Information About Statewide Articulation Agreements

To learn more information about statewide articulation agreements, please click on the links below. Please note that NECC decides which courses listed on the agreements students may receive credit for.

• Statewide Articulation Agreements
• Massachusetts Statewide Articulation Agreement Ch. 74 Crosswalk for Students

If you think you may be eligible for articulated credits, please complete the Massachusetts Statewide Articulation Agreement form (wufoo.com)

Seal of Biliteracy

Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy
The State Seal of Biliteracy is an award provided by state approved districts that recognizes high school graduates who attain high functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and a world language in recognition of having studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. Our vision is to help students recognize the value of their academic success and see the tangible benefits of being bilingual. The State Seal of Biliteracy takes the form of a seal that appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.

This is free for students who enroll at Northern Essex Community College. 

What you need to do:

• Enroll at Northern Essex Community College
• Complete the Seal of Biliteracy Request Form
• Provide your high school transcript or diploma with the Seal of Biliteracy designation

What you earn:

• 12 college credits with the Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction
• 9 college credits with the Seal of Biliteracy

For More Information

• Please visit www.necc.mass.edu/cpl
• Email dfelisberto@necc.mass.edu