Thinking about getting college credits during high school? We got you. Dual credit programs let you earn college credits early, helping you explore your interests, build confidence, and may save time and money.
Get Credits
Dual Credit Programs
College in High School
Washington’s public universities make it easy to get credits for universities in high school. If you complete a College in the High School (CIHS) program course, your credit will be recorded on your university transcript and applied toward your degree requirements whenever possible. Each university posts clear information about which courses are equivalent and how credits transfer, so you can see exactly how your hard work will pay off.
AP/IB Programs
Certain programs let you take courses at your high school that end with a standardized exam. If you choose to take the exam, and score high enough, you could earn university credit. The amount and type of credit you get depends on the exam and your score, and it may count toward your degree at Washington’s public universities. There are three programs: Advanced Placement, Cambridge International, and International Baccalaureate.
Running Start
Running Start lets high school juniors and seniors enroll in courses at a public university and earn both high school and university credit when they complete the class. Courses are taught by university faculty, either in person on campus or online. No matter where you take your Running Start classes, all credits earned are recorded on a permanent university transcript and can be transferred to other universities across Washington and beyond—helping you get a head start on a bachelor’s degree.
Course Equivalencies
To see how Dual Credit coursework transfers to college credits across our universities, visit our course equivalencies guide.
Dual Credit Considerations
What are your interests and goals?
Before applying to any program, make sure to consider your personal, career and educational goals, as well as your preparedness for that program. You do not need to know what job or degree you will seek or where you will attend after high school. What is most important are your interests and what you are considering for your future.
What is the benefit of each program?
Washington offers many dual credit opportunities and each program is different in terms of coursework, location, cost, exams, and more. Work with your school advisor to understand the structure of the program, and how credit may impact high school graduation requirements and future educational goals.
How much will it cost?
College cost savings may be achieved through dual credit but is dependent on several factors. Students are encouraged to reach out to Financial Aid Offices at their intended institution.
Which program is right for me?
Reach out to admissions counselors to learn more about courses that meet general education requirements or provide exposure to majors you may be interested in exploring.
What should I keep in mind?
- It takes time! Plan early, respect deadlines and be responsive to communications.
- Ask questions. Keep track of contacts and correspondence.
- Colleges and high schools operate differently. There will be application processes, calendars, and transcript differences your counselors will help you navigate.
- The best option is specific to you only. Colleges do not value one dual credit program over another. Instead, they are interested in your entire academic journey.
Take the first step!
Talk to your high school counselor about current programs and what courses you could consider based on your high school, college, and career goals.
For more information on how to get the most out of dual credit opportunities, view the following documents.
