Options for Earning College Credits While in High School

More than 15 million people enrolled in college in 2020 in undergraduate programs. The goal of attending college is to complete a program to earn a degree.

Earning a four-year degree typically requires 120 credit hours, but many students take advantage of high school programs that offer college credits. 

After all, you’ll have to pay for fewer college courses if you earn college credits in high school. But how do you do this? 

Here is a guide to help you learn how to earn college credits during high school.

Take AP Classes

The most popular way high school students earn college credits is through AP classes. AP stands for advanced placement, and these courses work well for gifted high school students.

You must have a high GPA to enroll in these courses during high school and may have to pay an extra fee. However, you will receive college credits if you successfully pass the courses.

You might research opportunities for high school students to learn more about the course options for AP classes. You’ll likely discover that you can take English, history, and chemistry AP classes.

Most colleges accept these courses, but you can check before applying to a college. 

CLEP Exams

College-level examination programs are another way to earn credits for college while in high school.

These courses let you take an exam in a particular subject during high school. If you pass, you earn the credits and won’t have to take the college course. 

CLEP exams don’t offer courses that teach you the subject. Instead, you prepare yourself and take the exams when ready. Again, you might want to perform some college research to find various opportunities. 

IB Courses

International Baccalaureate (IB) programs also offer credits for college courses. However, these programs are less popular as AP classes. In fact, many high schools don’t offer them, but you can ask your school.

If your school offers IB courses, you can enroll in them if you meet the criteria. These courses generally require completing coursework, writing essays, and passing exams. 

Dual Enrollment 

Finally, you might consider dual enrollment. Most high schools offer dual enrollment courses to help students prepare for college and earn credits before attending.

Dual enrollment is a process where you enroll in actual college courses while you’re in high school. Therefore, during high school, you’ll take regular classes and college classes. 

You’ll earn college credits if you complete the courses with passing grades. Many schools offer numerous classes for dual enrollment, including math and English. 

Earn College Credits to Graduate Faster

Earning college credits in high school offers two primary benefits. First, you’ll save money on tuition during college, and second, it helps you graduate college faster.

If you’re motivated, you could potentially earn many college credits during your high school years. 

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