Frequently Asked Questions

BDU is a State Endorsed Early College program established through a partnership between the Metropolitan School District of Wayne Township and Vincennes University. Our small-school environment allows students to take dual-credit classes to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously.

BDU serves students in grades 10–12. Prospective students apply during their 9th-grade year while attending the Ben Davis Ninth Grade Center. We also welcome applications from approved out-of-district transfer students who meet our admission criteria.

To be eligible for BDUHS, students must meet the following criteria:

• GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7.
• Grades: A grade of C or higher in Algebra 1.
• Attendance: No more than 10 unexcused and 10 excused absences in their 9th-grade year.
• Testing: Students will take the Vincennes University Accuplacer before arriving at BDU; however, this is for placement and is not a requirement for admission.
• Conduct: Students must follow the academic and behavioral guidelines of the 21st Century Scholars program, whether they are participants or not.

Scholars commit to graduating with a minimum GPA of 2.5, completing the Scholar Success Program (tracked via ScholarTrack), and remaining drug- and crime-free. For full details on maintaining your scholarship and the automatic enrollment process for eligible 7th and 8th graders, visit Learn More Indiana.

The 2026-2027 Application is NOW OPEN.

• Wayne Township Students: Complete the Official Online Application. This must be accessed via a Wayne student account and completed by both the student and parent.
• Non-Wayne Students: Email rebecca.daugherty@wayne.k12.in.us for an application and include your unofficial transcript.
• Out-of-District Transfers: You must also fill out the district transfer form (opening March 2, 2026) each year.
• Deadline: The application closes on Monday, February 16th, 2026 (President’s Day).
• Early applications are prioritized for the first week of interviews.

All BDUHS scholars work toward a General Studies Associate Degree of Science (62 college credits). While earning this degree, students choose elective coursework in one of three high-interest areas:

• Health Careers
• Information Technology
• Business Management

No. BDU Scholars earn a completed Associate Degree for FREE. These credits can transfer to an in-state or out-of-state institution, providing a significant head start on a four-year degree.

BDU Scholars will earn an Enrollment Honors Plus Seal under the New Indiana Diploma starting with the Class of 2028. This qualifies students for automatic acceptance to many Indiana public and private colleges. Students can also earn Employment or Enlistment Honors Seals.

BDU offers a small-school setting with lower student-to-teacher ratios, free tutoring, and enrichment programs. Juniors and seniors who maintain an Honors Schedule can also earn release periods, late arrivals, or early releases throughout the school day.

BDU Scholars have their own dedicated events, intramurals, and clubs, including:

• A state-winning E-sports team.
• The U-Cafe’: An on-site, student-run coffeehouse.
• For a full list of clubs, please visit our Student Life Page.

No. BDU does not offer music programs (band, orchestra, choir) or competitive IHSAA sports. Due to the rigorous college schedule, BDU scholars cannot participate in Ben Davis High School athletics or music programs. However, we have many athletic and creative clubs and activities. If you don’t see one for you, you can start one!

Students who choose to withdraw from the BDU program must enroll at Ben Davis High School. These transfers are only granted at the beginning of a semester or school year. Please note that once a student transfers back to the high school, they are not permitted to return to the BDU program.

Contact 

• Mrs. Molly Cordes, Student Services Director and 12th Grade Counselor, 988-7804
• Ms. Ky Shaw, 10th and 11th Grade Counselor at 988-7803