Take Classes at a College During High School
More than half of all colleges and universities in the United States offer dual enrollment programs for high school students who wish to take college courses while enrolled in high school, according to the U.S. Department of Education. More than 70 percent of high schools allow students to earn "dual credit" for those courses, earning both high school credit and college credit for the same course. Participation guidelines vary from state to state and among individual schools.
Instructions
Take Classes at a College During High School
1. Contact your academic advisor to find out if your high school participates in a dual enrollment program with a local college or university. Schools in rural areas may provide access to college courses through distance learning opportunities, while those in urban areas may provide release time for high-school students to attend university classes.
2. Make sure that courses you want to take will count toward the graduation requirements of your high school. If you know what you would like to major in at college, it is best to choose courses that meet the requirements of your intended degree program. That can save you both time and money in the long run.
3. Inquire about the fees for taking the course. Nearly 20 percent of participating high schools provide access to university courses with no charge to the student or parents, while others charge varying rates, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The burden of full tuition and related costs falls on the students and parent in 20 percent of schools; responsibility for partial tuition falls on parents and students for another 20 percent of schools, and 23 percent of schools require only the cost of books and materials. The fee system could change from year to year, so always check to see what is available in your school district at this time.
4. Look for financial assistant. Talk to your academic advisor or guidance counselor about scholarships, grants, or other financial aid options. Some schools provide assistance to those who demonstrate financial need. Work with your advisor and parents to complete any applications for financial assistance.
5. Complete any forms or paperwork required for enrollment. Most schools require a specific grade point average (GPA). The actual GPA required varies from institution to institution. You may need references from some teachers to confirm your ability to participate in more advanced work than the normal high-school curriculum covers. You may be able to make a case that you are prepared to take on the responsibility of more rigorous work despite a low GPA. Be prepared to verify experiences and skills that demonstrate your commitment to education and your ability to handle the coursework.
6. Plan your time wisely and complete all requirements for the college course. Guidelines for attendance and work completion may be more stringent than the guidelines for your high-school classes. Read the syllabus carefully and adhere to all deadlines and requirements for the course. If you are unsure, contact the professor for more details on class requirements.
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