High schoolers in Tuscaloosa City Schools can get an even bigger head start on college through the University of Alabama starting in the fall.
Elevate Tuscaloosa’s Dual Enrollment Scholarship program is expanding, meaning eligible TCS students can take as many as nine courses through UA’S Early College at no cost.
No tuition. No fees. No textbook costs. It’s all covered.
“We are committed to preparing students for life and career success,” said TCS Superintendent Mike Daria. “This expansion removes financial barriers and opens more doors for students to get a head start on college.”
Previously, the Elevate Scholarship covered one course per semester—up to 12 total credit hours equaling four 3-credit classes.
Under the new plan, students can take one course per semester throughout their high school eligibility, up to nine courses.
The expansion is possible after UA reduced its dual enrollment tuition to $33 per credit hour.
“The Elevate Dual Enrollment scholarship expansion is a game changer for the Tuscaloosa community,” said Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox. “Not only is this an investment in our students, it’s an investment in our economy. By relieving financial barriers, we are able to position our future generations for career success. I’m so proud of the way Elevate continues to drive a significant and measurable impact to our community, and I’m thankful for our educational partners who make this important initiative possible.”
In the 2024–25 school year, TCS students completed 1,021 dual enrollment courses and earned nearly 2,900 credit hours through partnerships with UA, Shelton State Community College and Stillman College.
While the expanded Elevate benefit applies only to UA, TCS students may continue to take dual enrollment classes at Shelton State during high school, plus earn 12 additional tuition-free credit hours there after graduation.
