Early College Program: The path to a head start in college and beyond

Our Early College Program is redefining what high school can be. By combining free community college courses with personalized support, our dual-enrolled students are able to earn their Oregon high school diploma while also completing credits toward their college degree.
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What is Early College?

Early College at Summit Learning Charter gives high school students a unique opportunity to earn their diploma while taking college courses – for free! Through our partnerships with community colleges across Oregon, we sponsor up to 12 credits per term in tuition and fees. Plus, our flexible virtual high school curriculum makes it easy for students to balance their college coursework with their academic goals and busy schedules. Designed for students seeking a more focused and mature learning environment, Early College equips learners with the tools to explore trades, pursue an associate degree, or prepare for a four-year university degree. Every learner works closely with a dedicated SLC advisor who ensures they’re on a well-balanced track to graduate.

Who is Early College For?

At Summit, we believe every student deserves access to opportunities that help them prepare for their future careers. Early College welcomes students of all backgrounds and provides a supportive environment to succeed. It’s ideal for students seeking advanced opportunities, including programs for gifted students and those interested in early college for homeschooled students.

Getting Ahead with Early College

Summit Learning Charter’s Early College Program offers high school students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to blend high school and college learning in a supportive environment. With free college credits, expert guidance, and flexible learning options, students can take meaningful steps toward their future goals.
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For High School Students Who Want a Jump Start on College

Early College is perfect for students ready to take charge of their education and future.

Why Early College at Summit Learning Charter?

Earn College Credits

Students can take up to 12 credits per term at Oregon community colleges, with tuition paid by Summit.

Career Path Exploration

As a combined high school and college experience, students can get a taste of trades, technical careers, skill development, or university-prep courses.

ACT/PSAT/SAT Prep

Students gain access to test preparation resources to help them achieve their college goals.

Personalized Education Plans

Advisors collaborate with each student to design a path aligned with their individual aspirations.

Where Personalized Learning Meets Expertise

Academics

In Early College, students:

  • Earn Transferable Dual Credits:
    Credits that can be applied to a four-year university or associate degrees.
  • Develop Crucial Skills: Technical and career-focused skills for the workforce.
  • Count On Comprehensive Support: Advisors, faculty, and resources to guide them every step of the way.

Whether pursuing college credits in high school or exploring alternate higher education pathways, Early College helps students lay the foundation for their post-high school success.

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Admissions

To apply to Early College:

  1. Apply Online: Fill out an application here and share a transcript.
  2. Stay connected: We’ll keep you in the loop and reach out if there’s anything else we need.
  3. Meet Criteria: Applicants must be on track to graduate, have a minimum 2.8 GPA, and meet placement minimums at the college.
  4. Welcome to Summit:Your student will meet with members of the Summit team and get set up with everything they need.
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Summit Learning Charter does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and other school-administered programs.

Happy Testimonials from Real Parents and Students

"Summit is an amazing school! I am in the early college program, so i don't take my classes at summit but rather through a local community college, but summit has been amazing at planning enrichment events, planning and advising my classes, etc."

Student

Early College

"Summit Learning Charter is a small, eclectic school. My favorite part is the community--the students and teachers are really good at building a community where no one gets left out. I would like it if Summit had sports teams of some kind, since that is not currently available, and having more campuses would also be nice. It's a very good school, though, with a great Early College program."

Student

Early College

"Summit Learning Charter's Early College program has allowed me to attend my local Community College as a Junior and Senior in high school so as to earn my high school diploma as well as my Associates Degree simultaneously. Although through this particular program I exclusively attend classes at the college, I have still made wonderful connections with the students and staff at SLC, even though I do not technically attend the SLC campus in person. SLC has K-12 grades as well as Early College students, and still makes the efforts of making connections and successes for their students!"

Student

Early College

"The flexibility of class options so that school can fit in with other activities without sacrifices. Thanks to the online classes, I was able to work hard and save money for college, play high school and club soccer, and do other fun activities!"

Student

Early College

Frequently
Asked Questions

Still have questions?
See our FAQ page for more information or contact us directly.

Who is eligible for Early College?

Early College is open to high school students interested in earning free college credits and exploring advanced learning opportunities.

Do students have to complete all their high school graduation requirements to join Early College?

No, students don’t have to complete all their high school requirements before applying. As long as they are on track to graduate with their current credits and grade level, they can continue earning high school credits through the college classes they take.

How does the program work with community colleges?

Summit partners with nearly every community college in Oregon, sponsoring up to 12 credits of college coursework per term to align with their academic goals.

What support do students receive?

Students work with a dedicated SLC advisor to create a tailored education plan, navigate dual enrollment, and access resources for ACT/PSAT/SAT prep. Advisors also connect with students each term to check in on their progress, reflect on their experience, and help plan for what’s next.

How do students decide which classes to take?

Upon enrollment, each student is assigned to a Summit Advisor. Students work closely with advisors each term to assure that they’re meeting their high school requirements, while also exploring subjects and courses of interest.

Does Summit help pay for college textbooks?

Yes, Summit provides funds every term to help off-set the cost of books.

Still have questions?

See our FAQ page for more information or contact us directly.

Getting Ahead With Early College

Summit Learning Charter’s Early College Program offers high school students a one-of-a-kind opportunity to blend high school and college learning in a supportive environment. With free college credits, expert guidance, and flexible learning options, students can take meaningful steps toward their future goals.
Apply Today