Early Start Courses and Enrollment - West Lafayette
Students can choose the experience that works best for them:
- Residential: Live on campus and immerse yourself in the full college experience.
- Commuter: Commute if you live nearby and enjoy the flexibility of staying close to home.
- Online: Take courses online for added convenience and flexibility.
These choices make Early Start accessible to a wide range of students, allowing you to jumpstart your education while balancing personal preferences and commitments. With these options, you can tailor your summer experience and get ahead before the fall semester begins!
Residential Courses
Residential classes have been strategically selected to span majors across Purdue University. Students may complete up to nine credit hours during the five-week session if you are participating in the residential or commuter program, including:
- Two to Three 3-credit: See the Early Start 2026 Residential Course Catalog
- 1-credit GS 12000 Summer Beginners Seminar I.
This seminar helps students transition to college by building schedule management skills and learning how to make the most of free time between classes. Students set up and test the apps and tools they’ll use at Purdue, practice staying organized, and develop strategies to manage stress — all in a supportive environment that prepares them for success in the fall semester.
Online-Only Courses and Programs
Students participating in the online-only program may complete up to nine credit hours at any point during the summer in Module 2 and Module 3.
- Two to Three 3-credit: See the Early Start 2026 Distance/Online Course Catalog
- 1-credit GS 12000 Summer Beginners Seminar I.
This seminar helps students transition to college by building schedule management skills and learning how to make the most of free time between classes. Students set up and test the apps and tools they’ll use at Purdue, practice staying organized, and develop strategies to manage stress — all in a supportive environment that prepares them for success in the fall semester.
How do students register for courses?
Students will be planning summer and fall courses with the assistance of an academic advisor during a virtual registration appointment this summer.
NOTE: Below are important websites for determining what college credit you may have earned during high school.