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, nondegree students. You must work with your high school counselor, parent/guardian, and the CU Boulder program coordinator 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 in-person appointment with Suzanne Classen. During that appointment you will discuss academic opportunities and expectations for students at CU Boulder.
If none of Suzanne’s available appointment slots work for you, please email her at Suzanne.Classen@colorado.edu with at least three dates and times that work for your schedule.
Students age 16 and older are also welcome to meet with a Continuing Education advisor, though it is not mandatory.
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.