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EARLY COLLEGE PROGRAM
Earn College Credit While Attending High School
Our early college program allows you to take college-level coursework before officially enrolling in college. This cost-effective option helps you get a head start on your degree while providing flexibility for your future college schedule. Early college offers a preview of what to expect in higher education, helping you make informed decisions before committing to a college.
Why choose the early college program?
Early college is an excellent option if you want to preview what to expect from a college course before you get there. Some students have taken eligible courses to satisfy a general course requirement for a degree program at the college that offers the course. Others are able to petition to transfer their course credits to a different college. Whether your course counts toward a college degree or not, you will get an edge when it comes to adding college-level learning to your high school experience. Your options will ultimately depend on your goals and the college or university you decide to attend.
Early College Programs
Dual Credit Courses (UNH)
College-level courses taught by VLACS instructors in partnership with University of New Hampshire (UNH), allowing students to earn high school and college credit.
Dual Credit Courses (SNHU)
College-level courses taught by VLACS instructors in partnership with Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), allowing students to earn high school and college credit.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
Advanced Placement courses are college-level courses offered while students are still in high school. These courses are designed by the College Board and culminate in an AP Exam in May each year.
Update Regarding CLEP prep courses: VLACS is pausing enrollment for our CLEP prep courses while we develop a new set of courses. As soon as new courses are ready, we will make announcements in our newsletter and on the VLACS website. Thank you for your patience as we work to update our offerings!
Why take early college courses?
Earn College Credit Now
Start building your transcript before you ever step foot on a campus. Credits earned through VLACS may be accepted at UNH, SNHU, and other colleges and universities across the U.S.
Save on Future Tuition
Early college courses cost a fraction of standard college tuition. Every credit you earn now is one less you pay for later.
Flexible Online Learning
Study on your schedule with fully online coursework — no commute, no rigid class times, and multiple start dates throughout the year.
Explore Majors Early
Not sure what you want to study? Early college lets you sample real college-level subjects before committing to a major or a school.
Strengthen Your College Application
Completing college-level coursework in high school signals academic drive to admissions teams. It’s one of the strongest things you can add to your application.
Graduate faster
The credits you earn now can reduce your time to degree, which means less debt, less time in school, and an earlier start on your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer these credits?
Credits earned through VLACS early college programs may be accepted at many colleges and universities, but transfer policies vary by institution. VLACS recommends contacting your school or prospective college to confirm how credits will be applied.
How many courses can I take?
UNH early college students can earn up to 28 UNH credits total through the program. SNHU early college has no credit limit, so students can earn as many credits as they’d like. There is also no credit limit to AP courses.
Are courses fully online?
Yes, all VLACS early college courses are completed fully online, giving you the flexibility to study from anywhere on a schedule that works for you.
How long do courses take?
Courses follow a standard semester calendar. Start dates vary, with summer, fall, spring, and year-round sessions available.
Can homeschool students enroll?
Yes, VLACS serves home educated families across New Hampshire and beyond. Both NH residents and out-of-state students are eligible to enroll in early college courses, provided they meet grade level and prerequisite requirements.
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