How to Take College Classes in High School & the Benefits
- Manit Kaushal
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
Taking College Classes in High School: A Smart Choice
College-bound high school students already have a lot to consider. You’re likely taking the best classes you can, filling up those extracurriculars, and racking up community service hours. You may know exactly where you want to apply, or you may be just starting your college search.
As you prepare for college, you’re probably also thinking about how to pay for it – and how to make the most of your time there. One answer to both concerns: take college courses while you’re still in high school. Even though this can mean more work for the average high school student, the payoff is usually worth it. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of taking college classes in high school and some of the options for doing so.
Can You Take College Classes in High School?
Yes, you can! In fact, there are several ways to start building college credit while you’re still in high school. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Here’s more information on the benefits of taking college classes in high school and how you can earn credits months (or even years!) before freshman orientation.
Why Consider Taking College Classes in High School?
Skip the Adjustment Period
One of the most jarring adjustments for students entering college is the increased level of performance expected of them. College courses require more effort and focus, both inside and outside of class. They may also require a higher level of critical thinking and writing skills. By taking college classes in high school, you can get a taste of what college-level work is like, making the transition smoother once you step foot on campus.
Lower the Cost of Your Education
By taking college classes in high school, it’s possible to earn up to two years’ worth of college credits before you even apply for a degree program. Every semester of credit earned while in high school is a semester of tuition, books, and other college expenses you save.
Online courses especially can save you money while fulfilling some of your prerequisite and general education requirements from the comfort of home.
Take More Classes That Interest You
Most colleges require all students to complete certain general education courses before graduation. These often include:
English Composition
A foreign language
Science
Math
Arts & Humanities
Social Science
By taking college classes in high school, you can knock these requirements out early. This allows you more room in your college schedule to focus on your interests, clubs, or specialized classes that help build your career.
Finish College Sooner
Taking college classes in high school can also help you finish college earlier. Graduating early not only saves money but also gives you a head start on your career path, allowing you to gain job experience sooner and stand out to employers.
How to Take College Classes in High School
There’s no single “right” way to take college courses in high school. Your choice will depend on your workload, stamina, and budget. Let’s explore some of the most common ways to earn college credit before high school graduation.
Community College Classes (Dual Enrollment)
Taking classes at your local community college while still in high school is called dual enrollment. Community colleges are generally more affordable than four-year universities while offering courses of similar quality. Many community colleges offer evening, weekend, or summer classes so they don’t interfere with your regular high school schedule.
Some community college classes may even count toward your high school graduation requirements!
AP Classes and Exams
Advanced Placement (AP) classes offer college-level coursework in high school. These classes are designed to be as rigorous and challenging as any college class.
Common AP courses include:
AP US History
AP World History
AP Computer Science
AP English Literature
AP Biology
At the end of the school year, students take an AP exam administered by the College Board. Scores range from 1 to 5, and most colleges require at least a 3 to qualify for credit.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program
The IB Diploma Program is an alternative to AP classes that emphasizes critical thinking and college-level coursework. The IB curriculum covers areas such as language, mathematics, science, and humanities. Some high schools offer IB programs, and completing them may increase your chances of getting into top colleges.
Online College Classes
Online courses are one of the best ways to earn college credit in high school. You take them from home and save money on education costs.
There are three categories of online college classes:
Courses from online colleges and universities
Courses from traditional colleges with online options
Courses from online education providers like UPI Study
Unless the courses are from the college you plan to attend, you’ll need to check if they transfer. One way to ensure transferability is to look for courses reviewed and accredited by the NCCRS & American Council on Education (ACE). Thousands of colleges accept ACE & NCCRS-reviewed courses, increasing the chances that your credits will transfer.
Programs like UPI Study offer flexible, self-paced courses that allow students to learn on their own schedule. They also provide free on-demand tutoring to ensure success.
Considerations for Which Classes to Take
If you’re taking college classes in high school through dual enrollment or an online provider, careful planning is crucial. Picking the right classes can give you a head start on graduation requirements or your career.
Some recommended courses for college-bound students include:
General Education Courses
English Composition I
Introduction to Philosophy
United States History I
College Algebra
For Future Pre-Med Majors
Anatomy & Physiology I
Medical Terminology
For Future Business Majors
Business Communication
Introduction to Business
Save Time and Money with UPI Study’s Online Classes
UPI Study is designed to help students succeed in college. Our courses teach you what you need to know, and most students complete their courses in 4-6 weeks.
The cost of a UPI Study course includes your textbook and access to tutoring services, giving you all the resources you need to excel—even before stepping foot on campus.
Book a free consultancy call to speak with an enrollment counselor and find out how UPI Study can help you save time and money while jumpstarting your college career.
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