Future IBECHS Students

Who Can Apply?

Eighth grade students living in New Hanover County may apply in the winter of their eighth grade year. Applicants may attend a New Hanover County School, Private School, or Homeschool Program. 

This is the only time a student can apply for acceptance in the Isaac Bear Program.

Due to the agreement between New Hanover County Schools and the University of North Carolina in Wilmington we are unable to accept new students after the application closes in the winter of the student's 8th grade year. This includes transfer students from other states/schools in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades and students from other Early College Programs that may have a similar structure to Isaac Bear. 

 How Many Students Do We Accept Per Year?

Isaac Bear has 75 open slots per year for our freshman class.

Leadership Expectation for Isaac Bear Candidates

Academically Focused

Grades: A's and B's in 7th and 8th Grades

7th Grade EOG Test Scores: Levels 3, 4, and 5 (or equivalent of for non-EOG tests) 

No Discipline Referrals/Concerns

Attendance: No Significant Amount of Unexcused Absences and Tardies/Early Checkouts

Willing to Read, Write, Think, and Talk In All Classes

Proficient in Reading, Writing, and Math

Self-Motivated to Do Well In and Out of School

Practices Self-Advocacy

Excellent Work Ethic and Time Management Skills

Proficient with Technology

Willingness to Collaborate with Other Students

Shows Respect Toward Peers, Teachers, and Leaders

HS Credit NCVPS Courses Taken in Middle School that Transfer to Isaac Bear

Earth/Environmental

American History 1 and 2

Math 1, 2, and 3

Civics and Economics

World History

Students who come into Isaac Bear with these high school credit courses will take another online NCVPS course in place of these specific classes during that class time.