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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of student is successful at Gateway to College?
Gateway students have dropped out, or are in danger of dropping out because they are behind in credits. Most of our students left high school with a GPA of 2.0 or less. Promising students who drop out because of unfortunate circumstances do well at Gateway. All applicants should consider the tough work load, extra transportation time, and amount of homework necessary to do well in college.
What support will I get?
You will work closely with a Resource Specialist to choose classes, work on fulfilling high school graduation requirements, and identify and manage issues before they escalate into problems. We will help you find creative solutions to all sorts of challenges (homelessness, daycare, transportation, childcare, family issues, lack of motivation, etc). The KEY component to success is communication: we can't help you if we don't know what's going on.
What is the school day like?
Each student has a different schedule based upon their classes, so the school day is different for everyone. While Gateway students typically spend less time in actual classes than high school students, the amount of work required outside the classroom is MUCH greater. Expect to spend three hours on homework and projects for every one hour you are in class.
What does it cost?
Gateway to College is a scholarship program. The scholarship pays for college tuition and books. Gateway students are expected to pay any other fees associated with their course work and college participation. There may be additional fees if a student earns less than a grade of ‘C’ in any class and has to repeat a college credit-bearing course in order to meet high school diploma requirements.
What about transportation?
Gateway students may receive a Worcester bus pass that is valid for each academic semester. Only one bus pass is distributed per student. If the bus pass is lost or stolen, we do not replace bus passes. If students choose to drive, they must register their car and post a QCC decal in their vehicle. This is available free of charge at the beginning of the semester
What if I am a young parent?
Many of our students have young children, and Gateway's flexible schedule is helpful. However, young parents often feel overwhelmed by the college workload and homework, and need to have contingency plans in place. All applicants, especially young parents who are juggling multiple responsibilities, should consider the tough work load, extra transportation time, and amount of homework necessary to do well in college.
Can a student with an IEP attend Gateway?
Yes, if the student's IEP team determines that the college-based accommodations available through QCC are adequate to meet the student's needs.
Can I stay connected to my high school?
Some Gateway students participate in high school events such as prom and graduation. Some Gateway students even play sports for their high school. Some Gateway students choose to never have contact with their high schools.
Do I need to pass MCAS?
Yes. You need to meet all of your district's graduation requirements, including courses and MCAS.
Can I have a job while I'm in Gateway?
It is very difficult to juggle the demands of college and a job, especially in the first semester. If you need to have a job, work with your Resource Specialist to find a manageable schedule that allows you to juggle your multiple demands. School needs to be your top priority. If you are not successful academically, you will lose your scholarship and will be withdrawn from the program.
How do I apply?
Interested students MUST attend an Information Session at QCC. That begins a process that includes testing, a written application, and an interview. Register online to reserve your spot by clicking the link below. Feel free to contact our main line at 508.854.7587 for more information.