WEST LAFAYETTE — A  new program at Purdue University is aimed at high school students.

Fast Start, created by Purdue University in partnership with the philanthropic online learning program Modern States, is designed to help Indiana high school students earn access to up to a year of college credit through free online courses and the corresponding College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams. Students receive assured admission into Purdue if they complete five courses, pass the corresponding CLEP exams and meet the University’s standard admissions requirements.

This partnership with Modern States creates opportunities for Indiana students to take giant leaps in their education with a direct track to Purdue, said a news release from Purdue University.

“Too many young Hoosiers miss out on college either because of its cost or simply a disbelief that they can succeed there,” says Purdue President Mitch Daniels. “Our Purdue-sponsored high schools are one attempt to open a new pathway to Purdue, and this new venture is another, with special relevance to rural and small-town youth.”

Steve Klinsky, CEO and founder of Modern States said the organization is “pleased to partner with Purdue to make college more attainable for students throughout Indiana.”

Fast Start will allow Hoosier students to take online courses and CLEP exams at no cost. Passing five CLEP exams can save students and their parents the cost of an entire semester, and almost $11,000. And passing 10 CLEPs amounts to more than $21,000 in savings when considering Purdue tuition and housing. Every individual CLEP passed is a big savings. The Fast Start option can move students toward early graduation and early entry into the workforce.

Purdue Fast Start offers support to high school students enrolled in the program, helping guide them through taking courses and tests and navigating Purdue admittance. Students also can connect to Purdue alumni and friends for mentoring if desired.

The program officially launches in Fall 2020, with inaugural students granted admission for the Fall 2021 semester. As Purdue Fast Start begins outreach to prospective students this spring, Purdue Extension, which has offices in every Indiana county, will be a vital resource in helping reach students and their families.

Fast Start is available to all Indiana residents. But it’s especially beneficial to students in rural Indiana, in inner-city schools that often lack access to the full offering of Advanced Placement courses, or those for whom a college education is less affordable, said the news release.

Visit purdue.university/faststart for complete details on the Purdue Fast Start program.