Application | Akins Early College High School

Prospective Students (Class of 2031): Applications for the 2027–2028 school year are submitted through AISD’s Enroll Austin portal.
Counselor Check-In: When meeting with your middle school counselor, be sure to specify "ECHS!" as your program choice.
Take the Next Step: Apply Today!

For questions, please email john.a.rodriguez@austinisd.org (Project Specialist) & christine.hankins@austinisd.org (Counselor).

What are the Early College Programs all about & are there any costs to the families?:

Dual-Credit Advantage: Students take rigorous college-level courses that simultaneously fulfill both high school and college graduation requirements. Students take their first college-level course during their 9th grade year (spring).
100% Tuition-Free: Tuition, textbooks, and transportation are provided at zero cost to students and their families.
Earn a Degree early: Students have the opportunity to earn an Associate Degree from Austin Community College (ACC) alongside their high school diploma.
Full ACC Campus Access: ECHS students enjoy complete access to all ACC campuses, facilities, events, and student support services—including academic advising, career counseling, and free tutoring.
Comprehensive Student Support: Dedicated guidance is built into the program through a full-time ECHS coordinator, ACC advisors, AVID instruction, structured study periods, and personalized tutoring.

What are the Two Pathways all about?

We have two pathways (high school plans): General Studies and Real Estate.

Who is eligible to apply and join the ECHS Academy? / How and when do I start taking college courses?:

Eligibility: Open to any interested student.
Recruitment Timeline: The primary recruitment period runs from October through February for entry in the following Fall semester.
TSI Assessment: Following application submission, candidates must take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) exam. Comprehensive test review sessions and testing opportunities are provided during the summer.
Admission Requirements: Students must demonstrate college readiness in Reading and Writing on the TSI exam to qualify for college coursework.
Early College Start: Qualified students who meet TSI requirements may begin taking college courses as early as the spring semester of their 9th-grade year.