College Preparatory Dual Credit Classes with Exams

Advanced Placement (AP): - Available to students in Evergreen Public Schools

The Advanced Placement program offers students the opportunity to take college-level courses and exams and earn college credit while in high school. With 40 AP courses offered across all subject areas, there is an AP course for every student. Students take an AP Exam at the end of their AP course for the chance to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. Nearly all colleges and universities in the United States grant credit and placement for qualifying AP scores. While a qualifying score can help students save time and money in college, research consistently shows that AP students are better prepared for college than students who don’t take AP, regardless of their exam score. AP students are more likely to enroll and stay in college, do well in their classes, and graduate on time. AP courses and exams build essential skills and confidence that can help students stand out in college admissions, thrive and succeed in college, and prepare for career success.

Cambridge International (AS & A Level):

High school students build knowledge, skills and confidence with college-level Cambridge Advanced courses, and may earn college credit with Cambridge Advanced (International AS & A Level) exams at all Washington public colleges and universities. Cambridge students can also receive college credit, placement, and recognition at over 1,000 institutions across the U.S., and many more internationally, for AS & A Levels and the Cambridge AICE Diploma. As a global organization with a 160-year history as part of the University of Cambridge, Cambridge International Education provides rigorous curriculum, assessments, and resources designed to help students from PreK–12 develop the academic, technical, and employability knowledge and skills they need for success in college and careers. Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/usa/.

International Baccalaureate (IB):

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (DP) provides students a chance to develop their academic ability, confidence, critical-thinking, and language skills. The DP curriculum, including its six subject groups and core classes, allows students to bring their own passions and abilities, inviting all students to benefit from the program. The DP and its classes are recognized by more than 1,500 universities worldwide, providing DP graduates a chance to earn college credit and decrease the financial burden of postsecondary education. The IB Career-related Program (CP) offers students a blend of academic study and career-related skills to learn more and gain experience in a specific industry. The CP core classes develop research and inquiry skills for students in their chosen industries that they can segue into either a professional career or postsecondary education.

Class-Based Dual Credit Options:

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit: Available to students in Evergreen Public Schools

CTE Dual Credit is offered through agreements between high schools and community/technical colleges. These classes can earn students both high school and college credit if they receive a qualifying grade. Unlike other programs, CTE Dual Credit does not automatically establish a college transcript, and students can request college credit after completing the class.

College in the High School (CiHS):  Available to students in Evergreen Public Schools

CiHS allows college-approved high school teachers to offer college-level classes at the high school. Students may take these classes for high school or college credit. Grades earned for college credit will be on the student’s permanent college transcript regardless of the student’s performance. While highly transferable, college credits earned through CiHS may count as elective credit if transferred to another college or university. The Council of Presidents CiHS course equivalencies tool is a helpful resource for understanding how college credit earned in CiHS classes might transfer to Washington’s public baccalaureate institutions. CiHS is free for public school students participating through an approved in-state, public college or university.

Running Start: Available to students in Evergreen Public Schools

Running Start is a tuition-free program for students eligible to be in 11th or 12th grade, but some college fees will be charged each term. Eligible students may enroll in any term, including summer, upon completion of the 10th grade. Students take college classes at an eligible college or online and earn both high school and college credit. Students must apply for admission to a participating community or technical college or public, four-year university and notify the school or district of their intent to participate. Grades earned will be posted on the student’s permanent college transcript. All districts must allow eligible students to participate, and all of Washington’s community and technical colleges and public, four-year colleges and universities accept Running Start credit. Credits earned through Running Start may also be applied to associate degree requirements leading to college issuance of a high school diploma as described in RCW 28B.50.535.

Open Doors Youth Re-engagement: Available to students in Evergreen Public Schools

Open Doors programs provide educational options to students ages 16-21 who are not expected to graduate by age 21. It offers credit recovery options, including dual credit, and community partnerships to help students succeed and move on to postsecondary education. 

Financial Considerations and Resources for Dual Credit Students

College Preparatory Dual Credit Classes with Exam

Advanced Placement:

There are fees for AP exams, but students from low-income families who are verified by school staff can take them for free through OSPI’s exam fee subsidy program.  Parents must complete the CNS Benefit Application & Parent Consent Form to access these fee waivers.

Class-Based Dual Credit

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit:

CTE Dual Credit is usually free, but some programs may require special equipment and supplies, and there may be a small fee for creating or updating the student’s college transcript.

College in the High School (CiHS):

Students do not have to pay to take a CiHS class through approved public, in-state colleges and universities. Private and out-of-state colleges may charge a fee for their college-level class.

Running Start:

Running Start students do not pay tuition unless they take more than the maximum number of allowed classes/credits. Each term, costs may include transportation, textbooks, and college fees. Colleges must waive fees for students verified as low-income, and many provide additional support like book loan programs and transportation vouchers.

In addition to program-specific subsidies and waivers, students may qualify for additional assistance through the program below.

Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF) Education and Training Voucher (EVT):

Students in or exiting DCYF care may apply for the ETV program and receive up to $2,000 a year for dual credit costs. Students must take at least six college credits and one 100-level college class each term.