Earning college credits in high school is a smart strategy to jumpstart your college education. There are many programs available to help you earn college credits and save time and money, potentially graduating from college earlier. You can also reduce your future course loads, get your feet wet with college-level coursework, and gain valuable experience.
Want to earn college credits as a high school student? Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
What Is College Credit in High School?
What exactly is earning college credit in high school? Simply, it means you take courses that earn college credit while in high school, which you can apply to a future college degree. These credits are typically awarded when students complete approved classes or achieve qualifying scores on standardized exams like Advanced Placement (AP) exams. In earning these credits, you may not need to take the equivalent courses in college – saving you the time and tuition for the course.
There are several options available for earning college credits if you’re still in high school:
AP classes: High school students can take AP courses and earn college credit based on exam scores.
Dual enrollment: High school students can take college-level courses through a local college or university to earn credits toward both their high school and some college requirements at the same time.
Online college courses: Some institutions offer online programs that are open to high school students to take accredited college courses remotely.
Early college programs: Some specialized programs allow high school students to complete college coursework before they graduate high school.
How Many College Credits Can You Get in High School?
Many high school students wonder how many college credits you can get in high school. While there are different options, it depends on the programs you choose.
AP classes, which are offered at many high schools, could potentially earn you 3-6 college credits, depending on the subject and your exam score. You may be able to earn up to 30 credits through multiple AP exams, though it depends on the policies of your preferred college or university.
With dual enrollment, you may be able to earn 3-12 credits per semester, depending on how many courses you take each semester.
Online college courses are usually 3 credits per course, but it can vary by institution.
Early college programs allow you to complete an associate degree, or 60 credits, before graduating high school, but it varies by program.
How to Get College Credits in High School
If you’re wondering how to get started, here’s a step-by-step guide:
AP Courses
Ask your advisor or guidance counselor about the AP courses offered at your high school.
Take the courses and prepare for the AP exams, which are usually offered in May each year.
Study hard. Most institutions require a score of 3 or higher on each AP exam to qualify for college credit.
Dual Enrollment
Talk to your counselor or advisor about dual enrollment opportunities at local colleges.
Apply and register for college-level classes at the school.
Complete the courses to earn college credit.
Online College Classes
Research accredited colleges or highly rated online programs that offer courses for high school students.
Speak to the advisor or complete the signup process to enroll in courses that match your goals.
Complete your coursework. You’ll earn credits when you earn a passing grade.
Early College Programs
Talk to your guidance counselor or look into early college programs in your area or online.
Apply to programs that combine high school and college curricula.
Complete program requirements to earn a college degree.
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Do AP Classes in High School Count as College Credit?
Generally, yes, AP classes in high school count as college credit – but it depends on your exam scores and the college you plan to attend. Most colleges award credit for AP exam scores of 3 or higher, though some selective institutions may require a 4 or 5. AP credits can fulfill general education requirements, allowing you to skip some core courses and pursue your degree-specific coursework earlier.
Tips for Taking College Classes as a High School Student
Taking college classes as a high school student can have many benefits, but it can also be challenging. Here are some tips to succeed:
Balance your workload and plan your schedule carefully to avoid overwhelming yourself.
Manage your time with planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments and deadlines.
Develop strong study habits and consider joining study groups or taking advantage of tutoring services if you feel like you need support.
Communicate with your teachers and professors. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or help if you need it.
Understand your program requirements, the eligibility criteria, and your preferred university or college’s transfer credit policy.
Can You Take Online College Classes in High School?
Absolutely! Online courses offer flexibility and accessibility, especially for high school students managing school and extracurricular activities. You have an opportunity to explore subjects that may not be available at your high school and prepare for the rigors of college academia.
These programs are ideal for self-motivated learners who want to earn college credits at their own pace. However, it’s important to make sure that the online institution is reputable and that the credits will be accepted by your chosen school.
What Is the Earliest You Can Take College Classes?
Enrollment for high school students can vary by program and state. Generally, students can begin as early as 9th or 10th grade through dual enrollment or early college programs, but age and grade requirements vary. It’s important to check specific program guidelines and consult with school counselors.
What Classes Earn You College Credit?
There are several options for college-level courses:
AP classes are available in subjects like Psychology, Biology, Calculus, and U.S. History.
Dual enrollment courses cover core subjects like English Composition, College Algebra, and Introduction to Psychology.
Online college courses may offer electives or general education classes that are open to high school students.
Career and technical schools may offer vocational classes that qualify for college credit.
How to Get Credit from AP Classes
Here are the steps to earn credit from your AP classes:
Select the AP courses that align with your college major or satisfy gen ed requirements.
Prepare for AP exams with practice exams, study guides, and review sessions.
Aim for a 3 or higher on your AP exams to earn credit at most colleges.
Request that the College Board send your AP scores to your preferred colleges.
Start Preparing for Your College Journey
Earning college credits in high school gives you a valuable opportunity to save time, reduce tuition costs, and gain a competitive advantage in your college experience. If you want to start exploring your opportunities, check out Sophia’s self-paced online gen ed courses and start your free trial!
