College Credit in High School

Dual Credit Programs
Every year, thousands of Washington high school students earn both high school and college credit by completing dual credit programs.  Some programs allow students to earn credit throgh standardized examinations: Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and University of Cambridge International Examinations.  Other programs, such as Running Start, allow them to enroll in college-level courses through their local community college.  The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction maintains a comprehensive website on dual credit opportunities at the link above.

Advanced Placement Programs
Advanced Placement programs enable students to take college-level courses while still in high school. Students who complete AP exams with a score of 3 or higher earn college credit and/or advanced placement into more advanced college courses at Washington public colleges and universities.  Interested students should check with their school counselors about the availablity of these programs.  Click on the link above for more information.

General Education Credits Granted for AP Examinations
 Tables showing the amount and type of credit conferred by public and private institutions in Washington for AP examinations are below:

International Baccalaureate Programs*
All Washington public four-year colleges and universities award general education credit for most higher-level International Baccalaureate courses with acceptable exam scores. Some also award credit for standard-level exams. Acceptable scores for college credit vary by institution, and higher scores may be awarded more credit. Many private colleges and universities also award college credit based on higher-level and/or standard-level exam scores.

University of Cambridge International Examinations*

*Available in participating high schools only.  Interested students should check with their school counselors about the availablity of these programs. 

Running Start
The Running Start program in Washington allows 11th and 12th grade students to take college courses at Washington’s community and technical colleges and at Central Washington University, Eastern Washington University, Washington State University, and Northwest Indian College.

Tech Prep 
The Tech Prep program helps students transition from high school into postsecondary professional technical programs. Tech Prep is a cooperative effort between K-12 schools, community and technical colleges, and the business community to develop applied integrated, academic and technical programs.

  • Washington Tech Prep awards high school students dual credit for career and technical education (CTE) courses articulated to college programs.
  • SBCTC Tech Prep provides occupational pathways for students by preparing them for technologically advanced careers and postsecondary education by emphasizing strong academic, technical, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.

College in the High School
Students take college courses from college instructors on their high school campuses.  Courses are offered by the state's two- and four-year colleges and universities. Students interested in these programs should contact their high school counselor to check availability.

Early College
The Early College program provides low-income youth, first-generation college goers, English language learners, students of color, and other young people underrepresented in higher education the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and one to two years of college credit at the same time, tuition free.

Gateway to College
Students age 16-21 who have dropped out of school or are in danger of dropping out may qualify for this program to concurrently accumulate high school and college credits, earning their high school diploma while progressing toward a certificate or associate degree.

Career Link - South Seattle Community College Career Link Program
Career Link is a high school completion program for students 16-21who no longer attend traditional high school. The program supports personal and academic development to help students achieve their high school diploma and make the transition to postsecondary education. Students may earn dual credit for high school completion and college credit. Youth who enroll in the program attend full time at no cost.

Technical College Direct Funded Enrollment Programs
These programs provide students the opportunity to concurrently earn high school and college credits whole progressing toward an associate degree or certificate. Students have access to most of the training progrms and support services at any of the three participating colleges: