High School Students

Taking Classes as a High School Student

High school students can take classes at CU Boulder to earn college credit that may also be applied to high school graduation requirements through the High School ACCESS program.

Many students use this opportunity to advance in math, science, modern languages, and other subjects. It can be a good fit for students who feel like a high school class is moving too slowly or who have completed the highest level of a class offered at their high school and would like to continue their studies in that discipline.

The credits you earn at CU Boulder will appear on a CU Boulder transcript. You must provide a copy of that transcript to any college to which you apply. Please be aware the grades you earn will follow you into any degree program if you admit to any of the University of Colorado campuses.

Course Selection and Enrollment

High school students enroll in CU Boulder classes through Continuing Education as visiting, non-degree students. You must work with your high school counselor, parent/guardian and a Continuing Education academic advisor to determine which CU Boulder courses best fit your goals.

To enroll, you must show evidence you meet all prerequisites for the CU Boulder courses you wish to take. If you completed the prerequisite at a community college, you must submit a copy of your unofficial transcript. If you have taken an AP test, an unofficial copy of your score (that includes your name) can also work for prerequisite verification.

For students interested in taking a foreign language, CU Boulder offers an online placement assessment. You are welcome to speak with your high school teacher or a CE academic advisor about appropriate course placement as well.

When to Schedule an Appointment with an Advisor

All students under the age of 16 who wish to enroll in CU Boulder classes must schedule an appointment with Graham Douglas. During that appointment, you will discuss academic opportunities and expectations for students at CU Boulder. Students age 16 and older are also encouraged to meet with a Continuing Education advisor, though it is not mandatory.

To schedule an advising appointment:

  1. Log in to Buff Portal Advising
  2. Click on the ‘Continuing Education’ box. From the ‘Select a Service’ drop-down arrow, choose ‘Academic Advising’.
  3. Book an open appointment with Graham Douglas (for students under 16) or any Continuing Education academic advisor (for students 16 and older). 

If you have further questions, email us at hsaccess@colorado.edu.

What to Expect in a CU Boulder Class

College classes are a great option if you are interested in a more accelerated format. The pace of college-level courses is much faster than high school classes. The material typically covered in a full year of high school may be covered in one semester.

The accelerated format is also something to be cognizant of when considering summer courses. Many classes are offered in five- or eight-week intensives; so instead of spending a full academic year on a course, you are completing it in 1-2 months.