At VLACS, we believe that college should be accessible, affordable, and flexible—starting even before high school graduation. That’s why we have expanded our Early College Program offerings, giving students even more opportunities to earn college credit on their own terms.
Through our Early College program, students in NH and beyond can explore college-level coursework while still in high school. You can save time and money while building confidence along the way. Whether you’re planning to attend a four-year university, a community college, or are still exploring your options, VLACS offers pathways that fit your goals.
Multiple Ways to Earn College Credit
Dual Enrollment through CCSNH, SNHU, and UNH
VLACS has partnered with the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH), Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), and the University of New Hampshire (UNH) to offer dual enrollment courses. These courses are taught by college-approved VLACS instructors and allow high school students to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. Students can choose from a wide range of subjects, from English and psychology to computer science and more.
Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement (AP) 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. Achieving a qualifying score on the exam can potentially earn students college credit and may allow them to skip introductory courses in college, saving both time and money. AP exams occur once a year each May. VLACS currently offers 18 AP courses.
Why Choose Early College at VLACS?
- Flexibility: Learn when and where it works for you. Our flexible learning model means you can balance early college courses with jobs, extracurriculars, and other commitments.
- Affordability: The average federal student loan debt balance in 2025 is $38,375. Dual enrollment courses cost a fraction of a traditional college course, and AP courses are free for NH students.
- Confidence-building: Early success with college-level work helps students feel more prepared for the transition after graduation.
- Personalized support: VLACS instructors, counselors, and college partners are here to help you succeed every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who teaches the Early College courses?
A: CCSNH courses are the only ones that are taught by CCSNH instructors. UNH and SNHU courses are taught by VLACS instructors who have been approved by the colleges to teach their courses, and who all have a minimum of a Master’s degree in their field of teaching. AP courses are all taught by VLACS instructors.
Q: How much do Early College courses cost?
A: Each course has an administrative fee except for AP courses. Non-New Hampshire residents must pay tuition as well as the administrative fee. View the tuition page to learn more.
Q: Do I have to make a VLACS account to take these courses?
A: Yes, all Early College courses require a VLACS student account. Read the course descriptions in the VLACS learning catalog for more information.
Q: Do I also have to make an account through the college(s)?
A: For CCSNH and SNHU, you must make an account through their websites. Go to the course description in the VLACS learning catalog for the link to create an account.
Q: How will I receive college credit?
A: Upon completion of a course, you will receive a grade and an official college transcript from the respective school (CCSNH, SNHU, or UNH). The credits recorded on this transcript are fully recognized by the issuing institution. However, acceptance as transfer credit at other colleges and universities is always subject to the receiving institution’s specific transfer policies.
For AP courses, college credit is earned by achieving a specific minimum score on the test, not just by completing the course. You may receive college credit if you earn a qualifying score of 3 or higher on the AP exam.
Whether you’re looking to lighten your future college course load, save money, or simply challenge yourself, VLACS’ expanded Early College program is designed to help you succeed.
Explore all your Early College options at vlacs.org/programs/early-college-program/ or attend an upcoming open house.
