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Discover Early College at Guilford

North Carolina’s first early college high school, we are a public early entrance high school for academically gifted students in grades 9-12 located on the campus of Guilford College, a selective liberal arts four-year institution.

Experience Why Families Choose Us

Students at The Early College at Guilford have a strong sense of pride in our school. Our students are dedicated to service as well as academic excellence. Our club culture provides many service and leadership opportunities and are generally student-led organizations

 

Student supports

Students at The Early College at Guilford have access to a school counselor and a Guilford College liaison. Our teachers and professors offer office hours, and many of our students volunteer as TAs and provide tutoring. All underclassmen are also paired with an upperclassmen in our Phoenix Buddy mentoring program.

Points of Pride

Per US News and World Report, The Early College at Guilford ranks as the #1 high school in North Carolina, #26 nationally, and is the #10 STEM high school in the United States.

Academics

The Early College at Guilford offers a writing intensive, fast paced curriculum. In 9th and 10th grade, students take honors and Advanced Placement courses. Eleventh and twelfth graders directly enroll in Guilford College courses with traditional-aged college students and taught by Guilford College professors.

Clubs and Student Life

The Early College at Guilford has a strong club culture. Students can choose from more than 35 competition and service clubs. Juniors and Seniors can also join clubs at Guilford College.

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School Discovery Month

All GCS families and future families are invited to explore our amazing schools during School Discovery Month.  Visit, ask questions, meet our staff, and see all the opportunities GCS has to offer in your attendance zone, as well as our Choice schools and programs.

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The Guilford Guarantee

One district.
Many possibilities.

No matter whether you choose your neighborhood school or a Choice school or program, GCS has a school that's right for your child.  Through the Guilford Guarantee, all schools will help students understand their potential and provide multiple pathways to success after high school.

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Learn about the Guilford Guarantee

College Credit 

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Opportunities to earn college credit while in high school.

Career Credentials 

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Access to industry recognized credentials in high demand fields.

Real-World Experience 

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Hands-on learning through internships, apprenticeships and work based learning.

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Choice Application Window
October 9 through December 4, 2026, at 5 p.m.

Elementary & Middle School Selections
Step Date
Lottery and Notification Friday, December 11, 2026
Family Accept and Decline Offers Deadline Friday, December 18, 2026
High School Options Selections
Step Date
Lottery and Notification Friday, February 5, 2027
Families Accept or Decline Offers Deadline Friday, February 12, 2027