Early College lets high school students, including homeschoolers, start college courses before graduation. It usually involves structured programs that help students earn a diploma and an associate degree in 4-5 years.
Studies show that homeschooled students are accepted to college at rates comparable to or higher than their traditionally schooled peers, and they tend to earn higher GPAs in their first year of college (Journal of College Admission, 2010). Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests.
What is early college?
Early College is a way for high school students, including those who are homeschooled, to start taking college classes before they graduate. While it’s similar to dual enrollment, it’s more about structured programs. These programs let students mix high school and college work, which can lead to earning both a diploma and an associate degree in just 4-5 years. For homeschoolers, this usually means taking classes part-time at a community college while continuing their home education. This setup gives them the freedom to fit college courses into their personal learning plan.
Dual enrollment vs. early college high school
It’s important for homeschoolers to know the difference. Dual enrollment allows students to take specific college classes while staying mainly enrolled in their homeschool. They earn both high school and college credit at the same time. On the other hand, Early College High Schools require students to switch to a full-time college program, leaving traditional school behind. These programs usually require enrolling in a public high school, making them less suitable for families who prefer homeschooling. So, dual enrollment is often a better choice for homeschoolers.
Benefits for homeschoolers
The perks of Early College for homeschoolers add up fast. First off, college courses during high school cost much less than tuition after graduating. In some states, they’re even free! Each college course counts as a full high school credit, since homeschoolers can set their own curriculum. Plus, students get a taste of college-level work while still having parental support at home. Finishing an associate degree during high school can save families $10,000 to $30,000 or more in future tuition, getting them to a bachelor’s degree faster.
Credit transfer considerations
Not all dual enrollment credits transfer to every college. Generally, credits from regionally accredited schools with grades of C or better are likely to transfer. But each college makes its own rules. Core classes like English composition and math usually transfer more easily than specialized ones. Transfers to in-state public universities are often smoother than those to out-of-state or private schools. Before enrolling, check if your student’s chosen colleges accept credits from the dual enrollment institution. Doing this upfront can save you from disappointment later.
The bottom line
Early college options give homeschoolers a real advantage in starting their higher education while saving a lot of money. Dual enrollment is the best of both worlds: tough academics paired with the flexibility of home education. To get started, look into your state’s policies and reach out to local community college admissions offices. With good planning, your student can graduate high school with valuable college credits—or even an associate degree—already in hand.
