Getting Ahead Academically
Many military school students graduate with college credits already earned. Understanding the options helps families maximize the academic investment.
College Credit Options
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
- Standardized college-level courses
- Credit awarded based on AP exam scores (3, 4, or 5)
- Most colleges accept AP credits
- Self-contained within the high school
Dual Enrollment
- Actually enrolled in college courses
- Taught by college professors or qualified high school teachers
- Credits appear on both high school and college transcripts
- Transfer policies vary by receiving college
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)
- Exams that demonstrate college-level knowledge
- Can be taken independently
- Wider acceptance at state schools than private
International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Comprehensive international curriculum
- Higher-level courses may earn college credit
- Less common at military schools
AP at Military Schools
Most college-prep military schools offer robust AP programs:
Common AP Offerings
- AP English Language and Literature
- AP U.S. History and World History
- AP Calculus AB and BC
- AP Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- AP Spanish, French
- AP Government and Politics
Military School Advantages
- Supervised study time improves AP exam preparation
- Structured environment supports rigorous coursework
- Small classes allow more individualized instruction
- Discipline translates to study discipline
Considerations
- AP course load must balance with military obligations
- Not all military schools offer the same AP courses
- Evaluate specific AP offerings when comparing schools
Dual Enrollment Programs
Some military schools partner with local colleges or online programs:
How It Works
- Students enroll in actual college courses
- May be taught on campus or online
- Earn both high school and college credit
- Courses appear on official college transcript
Benefits
- Guaranteed college credit (not test-dependent)
- Experience college-level expectations
- Reduce future college course load/cost
- Demonstrate college readiness to admissions
Challenges
- Not available at all military schools
- Course scheduling can conflict with military duties
- Online courses require self-discipline
- Transfer credit policies vary
CLEP and Credit by Exam
Students can independently earn credit through exams:
Popular CLEP Subjects
- College Composition
- American Government
- History of the United States
- College Mathematics
- Introductory Psychology
Advantages
- Flexible timing—take when ready
- Lower cost than courses
- Self-study option
- Wide acceptance at public universities
Limitations
- Selective colleges often don't accept CLEP
- No transcript record of learning process
- Requires self-motivation to prepare
Service Academy Considerations
Students aiming for service academies should know:
AP and Dual Enrollment Credits
- Service academies have their own curricula
- Outside credits may allow course validation, not exemption
- Focus on building strong application, not accumulating credits
Post-Graduate Year
- PG year credits don't typically transfer to academies
- Academic improvement matters more than credit accumulation
Questions to Ask Schools
- What AP courses do you offer?
- Do you have dual enrollment partnerships?
- What percentage of students take AP exams?
- What are your average AP exam scores?
- Is there additional cost for dual enrollment?
- How do college credits affect graduation requirements?
Maximizing Your Credits
Before Enrollment
- Review the school's AP/dual enrollment offerings
- Ensure courses align with your student's interests and abilities
- Understand how credit policies work at target colleges
During Enrollment
- Balance AP/college courses with military and extracurricular demands
- Use supervised study time for rigorous coursework
- Seek tutoring support if struggling
- Register for AP exams early
Tracking Credits
- Keep records of all AP scores and dual enrollment transcripts
- Research transfer policies at target colleges
- Understand which credits apply to your intended major
The Value Calculation
College credit in high school can:
- Reduce time to degree (graduate in 3.5 years)
- Lower total college costs
- Allow advanced course placement
- Demonstrate academic capability
- Free up college schedule for study abroad, internships, or double majors
However, repeating foundational courses in college has value too—stronger foundation, better grades, and deeper understanding.
Next Steps
Find military schools with strong AP programs. Learn about the ROI of military school including scholarship opportunities.