4 Ways To Finish College Fast

Most accelerated degrees are highly structured, meaning that you will not have a lot of choice in which courses you take. Some fast-track programs offer extra guidance and support to make sure students can successfully complete the program in the allotted time.

Some accelerated degree programs may require that you achieve a particular GPA in high school, and that you maintain a minimum GPA while you are enrolled in the program. [3] X Research source Some accelerated programs also have strict rules regarding how much you can work and how much money you can spend on living expenses. For example, you may be required to live with a parent or guardian while you are in the program, so that you don’t have to work in order to afford housing. [4] X Research source

To find these programs, search for schools that offer accelerated programs for “adult” or “continuing” learners.

Most associate’s degree programs in the US require you to complete 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits of coursework (about 20 classes). [8] X Research source Some universities will accept an associate’s degree as credit toward completing a bachelor’s degree. [9] X Research source While many employers require bachelor’s degrees, there are plenty of viable career options that you can pursue with an associate’s degree. For example, you might be able to land a job as a medical technician, a web developer, an occupational therapist assistant, or an engineering technician. [10] X Research source Do some research to find out if you can get the kind of job you want with an associate’s degree.

Some dual enrollment programs require you to travel to a college campus, while others allow you to take college courses online. In some cases, university faculty may offer college-level classes at your high school or a local career center.

If you’re going to a school that charges high tuition rates for summer classes, find out if they will accept credits from courses offered at your local community college. Talk to your academic adviser before signing up for classes at another institution. [13] X Research source Summer classes tend to be condensed into a shorter period of time than regular term courses, so be prepared for a more fast-paced, intense learning experience.

Taking a few classes part-time can also help you feel better prepared for the pressure of going back to school full-time. [14] X Research source

Take care not to take on more coursework than you can handle. Taking too many courses at once can ultimately leave you feeling burnt out, and make it harder for you to complete your degree on time. [15] X Research source

While there is a fee for taking an AP Exam, many high schools offer assistance for students who have trouble paying the fee. Talk to your school counselor or AP Coordinator about applying for a reduced fee.

The College Board offers free online courses to help you prepare for taking a CLEP exam. [18] X Research source Currently, there are 33 different CLEP exams which cover a variety of topics, including business, literature, foreign languages, math and science, and history and the social sciences. [19] X Research source There is a $85 fee for taking each CLEP exam. [20] X Research source

Depending on your school’s policies, you may need to take an exam or create a prior learning portfolio in order to get prior learning credit.

For example, if you ace the algebra portion of your math placement test, you may be able to jump straight into pre-calculus.

Every school has different policies when it comes to challenging prerequisites and other course requirements. Policies may also vary from one department to another. Talk to your adviser to find out how it works in your program.

Attend an in-state school or community college, so that you can pay lower tuition rates. Get an online degree or go to a school close to home, so that you don’t have to worry about paying rent or campus housing fees. Apply for scholarships, grants, or federal student loans to help cover the costs of tuition and fees.

For example, if you’re a working parent trying to get through a college degree, ask a relative, a friend, or a fellow parent to help watch your child sometimes so that you can get homework done. Some schools offer support groups for non-traditional students. Look for student clubs or campus groups for adult learners, working students, or students with families. Don’t be afraid to reach out to teachers, advisers, and school staff if you are struggling. Remember, it is their job to help you succeed.