Pursuing a college degree is a significant investment, with the average cost of a four-year bachelor’s degree at a public university exceeding $40,000 for in-state students in 2025. But what if you could shave thousands off that price tag while still in high school? By taking college classes in high school through programs like dual enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB), students can earn college credits early, reduce their time in college, and save substantial amounts on tuition. This guide explores how these programs work, their financial benefits, and actionable steps to get started, helping you achieve an affordable college education.
Why Take College Classes in High School?
Taking college classes during high school allows students to earn credits that count toward both high school graduation and a college degree. This approach, often called dual enrollment or concurrent enrollment, can significantly lower the cost of higher education. According to the Community College Research Center (CCRC), students who participate in dual enrollment are more likely to complete a degree and do so faster, saving both time and money. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- Cost Savings: Many dual enrollment programs are free or low-cost for high school students, compared to regular college tuition rates of $300–$1,500 per credit.
- Shorter Degree Timeline: Earning 12–30 credits in high school can reduce college by one or two semesters, cutting tuition, housing, and other expenses.
- Academic Advantage: Early exposure to college-level work prepares students for the rigor of higher education, boosting confidence and success rates.
How College Classes in High School Save Money
The financial benefits of earning early college credits are substantial. Let’s break it down with a real-world example:
- Traditional College Path: A bachelor’s degree typically requires 120 credits. At an average cost of $400 per credit (a conservative estimate for public universities in 2025), that’s $48,000 in tuition alone.
- Dual Enrollment Path: A high school student earns 15 credits through dual enrollment at a community college, often at no cost or a nominal fee (e.g., $50–$100 per course). Those 15 credits save $6,000 in college tuition. If those credits reduce college by one semester, additional savings on housing, fees, and living expenses could add another $5,000–$10,000.
By taking college classes in high school, students can save anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the number of credits earned and the college’s tuition rates.
Types of Programs to Save Money
Several programs allow high school students to earn college credits affordably. Here’s a comparison:
| Program | How It Works | Cost | Credit Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Enrollment | Students take college courses through a local community college or university. | Often free or $50–$200/course | Widely accepted at public universities |
| AP Courses | High school courses with college-level curricula; credits earned via exam scores. | $95–$150 per exam | Depends on college and exam score |
| IB Program | Rigorous two-year program with college-level courses; credits via exam scores. | $120–$300 per exam | Varies by college |
| CLEP Exams | Standardized tests for college credit in specific subjects. | $90 per exam | Accepted by many colleges |
Dual Enrollment is often the most cost-effective, as many states (e.g., Florida, Texas) cover tuition for high school students at community colleges. For example, SmarterDegree offers flexible, accredited online courses that align with dual enrollment goals, making it easy to earn credits from home.
Real-World Savings: A Student’s Story
Meet Sarah W., a high school junior who enrolled in dual enrollment courses at her local community college. By taking two courses per semester (6 credits) for two years, she earned 24 college credits at no cost through her state’s dual enrollment program. When Sarah enrolled at a public university, those credits transferred, saving her $9,600 in tuition (at $400 per credit) and one semester of room and board ($6,000). Total savings: $15,600. Sarah graduated college a semester early, reducing her overall expenses and allowing her to start her career sooner.
Steps to Start Taking College Classes in High School
Ready to save thousands on your college degree? Follow these steps to get started:
- Check Eligibility: Contact your high school counselor to learn about dual enrollment, AP, or IB options. Most programs require a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0) or counselor approval.
- Research Programs: Look for local community colleges or online providers offering accredited courses. Check if your state funds dual enrollment (e.g., California’s AB 288 program).
- Verify Credit Transfer: Ensure the credits will transfer to your target colleges by checking their transfer policies or using tools like Transferology.
- Enroll and Plan: Work with your counselor to balance high school and college courses. Online options, like those from SmarterDegree, offer flexibility for busy students.
- Apply for Funding: If costs apply, explore state funding, scholarships, or financial aid for dual enrollment students.
Pro Tip: Start with introductory courses like English Composition or College Algebra, which are widely transferable and build foundational skills.
Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While taking college classes in high school offers huge savings, it’s not without challenges:
- Time Management: College courses require more effort than high school classes. Create a study schedule and prioritize tasks to stay on track.
- Credit Transfer Issues: Not all colleges accept AP, IB, or dual enrollment credits. Research transfer policies early to avoid surprises.
- Academic Rigor: College-level work can be intense. Seek support from teachers, tutors, or online resources if needed.
Top Affordable Programs for High School Students
Here are a few reputable options for earning college credits in high school:
- Western Governors University (WGU): Partners with high schools for dual enrollment; affordable online courses starting at $3,500 per term.
- Community Colleges: Many, like Miami Dade College, offer free or low-cost dual enrollment to local high school students.
- SmarterDegree: Provides flexible, accredited online courses ideal for high school students seeking college credits.
- University of the People: Offers tuition-free online courses with minimal fees, perfect for budget-conscious students.
Always verify accreditation (e.g., regional accreditation) and transfer policies before enrolling.
Conclusion: Start Saving Today
Taking college classes in high school is a smart, affordable way to jumpstart your degree and save thousands on tuition. Whether through dual enrollment, AP, or online programs like SmarterDegree, you can reduce your college timeline, cut costs, and gain a head start on your academic and career goals. Talk to your school counselor or explore accredited programs today to unlock these savings and set yourself up for success.
Ready to save on college? Check out local dual enrollment options or visit SmarterDegree for a complimentary call with an advisor.
