2026-2027 (Class of 2030) Students: Apply via AISD's Enroll Austin. Also, when you are visiting with a counselor, make sure you tell them, "ECHS!" Apply Today!

Apply Today

Enroll Austin ISD

Academy Info Slides (for NEW parents) 

Parents Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

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

What is the ECHS Academy Program all about & are there any costs to the families?:

• Textbooks, courses, and transportation are FREE! NO COST to the student or family for tuition, transportation, or textbooks!

• Students can earn an associate degree and complete all the high school requirements by the time they graduate from Akins ECHS. 

• Students can access ACC support services, including college advising, career counseling, and free tutoring. Students can use all ACC  campuses and facilities and participate in ACC events for free.

• Students receive academic support through a full-time ECHS coordinator, ACC advisors, AVID classes, tutoring, and study periods. 

What are the Two Pathways all about?

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

• Pathways & Support

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

Any student interested. The program has one main recruitment period (October to February) for students seeking to begin the program in the Fall semester of the following academic year. Once students have applied, they must take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test. Opportunities to review and test will be provided during the summer. Students must meet college readiness in the Reading and Writing portions of this test to be eligible to begin taking college classes.  If college-ready, students may start college courses during the spring semester of their 9th-grade year.