Frequently Asked Questions

What is Career Link?
What academies and programs are available?
What are some benefits?
How much will it cost?
Is scholarship money available?
Who can enroll?
How do I enroll?
Where will I take classes?
How do I check my NIACC grades?
What if I’m not planning on going to college?
What if I’m planning on going to a four-year college?
What is articulation?
How do I receive credit for articulation?
What if I have additional questions?
How do I log on?

What is Career Link?
Career Link is an exciting educational opportunity that will prepare you for a successful career. Through an agreement between your local high school and North Iowa Area Community College, Career Link programs and academies allow you to get a head start on your college education. When you graduate from high school you will also have completed college courses…FREE of charge.

What academies and programs are available?
Please see the academies and programs page for a list of available academies and programs.

What are some benefits?
Please see the benefits page.

How much will it cost?
All tuition and textbook costs are paid through a combination of high school, NIACC and state incentive programs. There is no cost to the student except for transportation, and in some programs, tools.

Is scholarship money available?
Taking NIACC classes while in high school may qualify you for scholarship money when you attend NIACC after graduation… with no application needed. The Link Scholarship is available to students who have taken at least six NIACC credits and have maintained a 3.25 GPA in their NIACC classes, while in high school. For more information, please see the Link Scholarship page.

Who can enroll?
Career Link classes target average and high ability students. However, classes are for any student capable of successfully completing the applied curriculum. The applied academic format requires the ability to read and comprehend program-related technical materials and any activities related to the course. Special needs students may require the support of the high school resource teacher and NIACC Disability Services. Some at-risk students are motivated by the relevancy of the topics and, therefore, positive results are achieved.

How do I enroll?
Students and parents interested in Career Link programs should contact their high school guidance counselor or contact a NIACC Career Link coordinator.

Where will I take classes?
Depending on the program, students take classes at their local high school, an approved facility, or on the NIACC campus.

How do I check my NIACC grades?
Mid-term and final grades can be accessed through NIACC’s web site via WebAdviser.

What if I’m not planning on going to college?
Through Career Link programs and academies, you will already have attained college credit when you graduate from high school. The job market is stronger for those who have some college education.

What if I’m planning on going to a four-year college?
The knowledge and skills you learn can lead to finding a part-time job, summer job, or internship while you are in college. Career Link programs and academies can help you determine which career area is best suited for you and can provide an excellent foundation for your four-year degree plan. In addition, many of the Career Link programs and academies provide an opportunity to complete general education courses required by most colleges and universities.

What is articulation?
Articulation is a high school career or technical class that closely matches competencies of a NIACC course. High school and NIACC instructors sign an agreement that permits students who receive a B- or higher and meet NIACC course competencies to receive articulated NIACC course credit. Students must receive at least a B- average in that course in order for it to be counted as NIACC credit.

How do I receive credit for articulation?
Upon graduation, when you register for NIACC classes inform your NIACC counselor about your previous Career Link classes and they will assist you with the "Request for Articulated Credit" form.

What if I have additional questions?
Contact your local high school counselor or a NIACC Career Link Coordinator.

How do I log on?
Instructions [PDF]