Why High School Students Should Consider a Community College Summer Class (And How It Helps with College Admissions)

As summer approaches, many high school students—and their parents—start looking for meaningful ways to spend the break. One powerful but often overlooked option is taking a community college summer class.

For motivated students, concurrent enrollment can offer academic, personal, and admissions-related benefits. Here’s why taking a community college course as a high school student might be one of the smartest moves this summer.

1. It Shows Colleges You’re Motivated and Curious

Admissions officers love to see that students are going beyond what their high school requires. Taking a college-level course while in high school shows intellectual curiosity and a willingness to take on academic challenges. It also demonstrates initiative and a genuine interest in learning.

2. It Can Lighten Your College Course Load

Many community college courses are transferable to UCs, CSUs, and other four-year schools. This means you might enter college with general education credits already completed, giving you more flexibility once you’re on campus.

3. It Can Boost Your GPA

When colleges recalculate your GPA, community college courses often count on a 5.0 scale. And in some cases, one semester-long college course may even be counted as the equivalent of two semesters of high school credit.

A Word of Caution: College Grades Stick

Unlike high school classes, your college transcript begins now. If you take a community college class, that grade will follow you throughout your academic career. Be sure you’re ready to commit and put in the effort required to succeed.

Not Quite Ready? Try Online High School Courses

If you’re curious about summer learning but unsure whether a college course is the right fit, consider one of these online high school programs:

• UC Scout

• APEX Learning

• University of Nebraska High School

• Silicon Valley High School

These programs still allow you to explore new topics and stay academically engaged—without the pressure of a college transcript.

Final Thoughts

Taking a community college summer class in high school can set you apart in the college admissions process, improve your GPA, and help you plan ahead. Whether you're fulfilling a high school graduation requirement or exploring a subject that interests you, it’s a move that can pay off long-term.

Want help choosing the right course or figuring out how to register? I’d be happy to help you build a summer plan that fits your goals.