College Courses: Admission Requirements
Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program allows students to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously by taking college-level courses offered through participating colleges and universities. The program is designed to promote rigorous academic achievement and provide college-ready students with a wide range of educational opportunities.
Even if your high school has a formal partnership with a local college to offer specific CCP courses, students may enroll in CCP courses from any participating Ohio college or university, including online courses, provided the courses support their future academic goals.
What is College Credit Plus?
Eligible students may take college courses and earn credit that appears on both their high school and college transcripts. Teachers who instruct CCP courses within a high school must meet college faculty qualifications, including serving as adjunct instructors and completing required professional development.
All CCP courses—whether taught on a college campus, online, or at a high school—must be identical to the courses offered by the college, apply toward a degree or professional certificate, and meet institutional academic standards. With the exception of CTAG courses, all CCP courses carry weighted grades and are calculated into the student’s GPA.
Why Participate?
Ohio seeks to increase the number of students who graduate both college- and career-ready. College Credit Plus expands access to college coursework and provides students with the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.
Who Can Participate?
All Ohio public school districts and public colleges and universities are required to participate in College Credit Plus. Nonpublic high schools and private colleges or universities may choose to participate.
To be eligible, students must meet the admission requirements of the college or university to which they apply.
Can I Participate?
Students entering grades 7–12 for the 2026–27 school year may apply for College Credit Plus admission to a public or participating private college. Admission decisions are based on college readiness in one or more subject areas. School counselors are available to help students and families understand eligibility requirements, deadlines, and next steps.
Where Can I Take College Classes?
College Credit Plus courses may be offered:
- At your high school
- On a college campus
- Online through an approved college or university
Are Courses Limited to Those Offered Through My High School’s Partnership?
No. Once admitted to a college, students may enroll in any CCP-eligible course offered by that institution, either in person or online. Students may take courses through any participating public or private college in Ohio.
Will College Credit Plus Grades Appear on My High School Transcript?
Yes. Successfully completed CCP courses:
- Satisfy or exceed high school graduation and subject-area requirements
- Are listed by course title on the high school transcript
- Are calculated into the GPA using the same weighted scale as Advanced Placement courses within the district
Academic and Social Responsibilities
Students are expected to follow all policies and procedures of both the college/university and the high school, including those outlined in the student handbook. CCP students have access to college advising services as well as their high school counselor and school-based resources.
Participation in College Credit Plus does not guarantee admission to a college after high school. Students must complete the standard undergraduate application process for postsecondary enrollment.
What Courses Are Available?
After admission, CCP students must complete Level I courses as part of their first 15 college credits. Once these credits are earned, students may enroll in Level II courses.
What If I Fail a CCP Course?
Courses that are failed or withdrawn with an “F” will be recorded as an “F” on both the high school and college transcripts and will be calculated into both GPAs. In some cases, the school district may seek reimbursement for state funds paid on the student’s behalf. The district may withhold high school grades or credits until reimbursement is resolved.
Does College Credit Transfer After Graduation?
Through Ohio’s Transfer to Degree Guarantee, many entry-level courses earned at Ohio public colleges are guaranteed to transfer to other Ohio public institutions. Credits earned at private colleges or transferred out of state are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the receiving institution.
For more information on credit transfer pathways, visit https://transfercredit.ohio.gov
Are Private School High School Students Eligible?
Yes. College Credit Plus is available to all eligible students in grades 7–12 who are accepted by a participating Ohio college or university. While the program functions similarly for all students, private school and homeschool families must apply through the Ohio Department of Education to receive funding for course costs.