POTSDAM -- Clarkson University is offering five new $60,000 Clarkson School Presidential Scholarships for students interested in starting college early.

A number of St. Lawrence County students have taken advantage of the Clarkson School program over the years.

The Clarkson School is the university's early entrance college program for talented students who have completed the 11th grade and are ready to begin their college studies after what is typically the sophomore or junior year of high school.

Each year, five scholars will be chosen to receive the new $15,000 per year award. Recipients will be selected based on high school GPA, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement.

In order to receive full consideration, students must submit their Clarkson School applications portfolio by April 15.

The Clarkson School is unlike other early college programs, the college says. It provides exceptional high school students with a full academic year of residency-based interdisciplinary education.

Students are considered first-year Clarkson University students, taking a full course load alongside other Clarkson undergraduates. At the same time, Clarkson School students are immersed in a supportive residential environment with specialized programs and activities that bridge high school and college.

Students who finish the academic year in good standing may automatically continue as sophomores at Clarkson University or go elsewhere with a comprehensive portfolio and academic aptitude gained from being a part of the Clarkson School.

For additional information, go to http://www.clarkson.edu/tcs or call (800)-574-4425.