What Is Early College?
High school students can enroll in college-level courses through early college programs at local college campuses or through online Christian university partners before they finish high school. Students gain both academic and financial advantages from programs that combine high school and college education. Christian schools and homeschool networks that offer these programs integrate faith-based learning with discipleship into their educational experience.
Florida Collegiate High School provides the opportunity to participate in a complete early college program to gain an AA degree from our university partner, Southeastern University.
How Early College Works
Dual credit course enrollment typically begins when students reach the 10th or 11th grade. Students can apply these credits toward fulfilling both high school graduation requirements and college degree prerequisites. Christian early college programs typically associate with accredited Christian universities and colleges to maintain academic and spiritual standards in their courses.
Certain programs operate as part of a high school’s regular curriculum while others function as part-time or virtual options. Students can obtain an Associate of Arts degree before completing high school graduation.
Typical Savings and Academic Benefits
The EducationData.org figures show public 4-year in-state college costs at $26,027 annually for 2024–2025 while private 4-year institutions charge $55,940 per year. Families will save between $25,000 and $50,000 or more in total college expenses by completing 1–2 years of college through an early college program.
Other benefits include:
- Faster graduation timelines
- Stronger college applications
- Smoother transition to higher education
- Development of academic maturity and study skills
- Integration of Christian worldview in college-level coursework
At Florida Collegiate High School, we integrate our values of a distinctively Christian program, collegiate academics, and mentored leadership.
Real-Life Success Story
A student from Florida Collegiate High School, graduated with both his high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree. Through FLCHS early college arrangement with our university partner, Southeastern University, the student completed 60 credits as part of his high school tuition, saving his family nearly $40,000. He is ready to enter college as a junior, and spend two years earning his bachelor’s. This will enable him to start seminary or full-time ministry job at 20.
Challenges to Consider
Early college programs deliver advantages but they also present multiple challenges.
- Academic pressure and course rigor
- Reduced elective options in high school
- Time management demands
- Transfer credits from previous institutions may not be accepted by every college, particularly those that are out-of-state or have selective admission requirements.
- Students must be motivated and disciplined
Florida Collegiate High School champions student success. We provide mentored support for all the courses in our program that include face to face accountability and community for both our seated location and online.
Is Early College Right for You?
Early college programs under Christian education offer students who are prepared for advanced challenges a powerful method for saving on college expenses. Early college proves to be a smart choice for families who value academic achievement and spiritual development.
Early college serves as an ideal solution for those who want to save money while accelerating their education in a faith-oriented setting. Contact us today and discover a new way to think about high school and college.
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