Ditch the AP Rat Race: How High School Students Can Take College Courses as Visiting Students
For high school students looking to push their academic boundaries, becoming a visiting student at a college or university is an excellent opportunity. A visiting student is a high school student who enrolls in college courses—either during the school year or in the summer—to earn official college credit. These courses appear on a college transcript, which can be submitted with college applications, even if the high school does not incorporate them onto its transcript.
Do You Need Permission from Your High School?
In many cases, students may need permission from their high school to enroll in a visiting student program, particularly if they want the course to count towards graduation requirements. Policies vary by school, so students should check with their counselor or administrator before registering should they hope to receive school credit. However, even if the credits don’t appear on the high school transcript, they still hold value in the college admissions process.
Visiting Student Courses Carry the Same Weight as AP
One common misconception is that only AP courses demonstrate college-level rigor. In reality, taking a college course as a visiting student is equally valuable. Both AP courses and college courses show academic ambition, but college courses often provide greater flexibility and deeper exploration of specific subjects.
Another important distinction is how credit is awarded. Colleges grant AP credit based on the exam score, not the grade in the class, and earning credit typically requires a score of 4 or 5. However, a college course with a passing grade will likely transfer in when you enroll and count towards graduation requirements. This means students who perform well in a college course can be more confident in receiving credit than they would be with AP classes.
For students who want to enhance their academic profile but need more balance during the school year, summer college courses can be a strategic way to elevate rigor without overwhelming their schedule.
Break Free from AP Limitations
AP courses follow a set curriculum, but college courses allow students to pursue topics that are more relevant to their interests or future career goals. Whether it’s neuroscience, business analytics, or creative writing, enrolling as a visiting student provides exposure to coursework beyond what high schools typically offer. Who knows, you may even find that it is easier to get an A in a subject you love than fighting through AP Lang just because you want to remain competitive for selective institutions.
Instead of getting caught up in the AP rat race, students should embrace the opportunity to pursue knowledge authentically. Choose courses that inspire curiosity and ignite a passion for learning. A well-crafted narrative around these decisions will make for a more compelling college application, demonstrating a student’s ability to think divergently and explore subjects that set their intellectual curiosity on fire.
How to Enroll
Many universities and community colleges offer visiting student programs for high schoolers. Students should check:
Admission policies for high school students.
Credit and transcript availability to ensure they can submit the course on applications.
Course selection for alignment with academic and career goals.
By strategically taking college courses, students not only challenge themselves but also showcase initiative and intellectual curiosity—qualities that stand out in college admissions. And remember, the name of the college matters far less than the experience itself. A course from your local community college will carry the same academic weight and credits, empowering you with valuable knowledge and skills.
