Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program remains one of the most valuable and often overlooked opportunities available to middle and high school students. The program allows students in grades 7–12 to take real college courses and earn both high school and college credit at the same time. For families looking to reduce future college costs and help their student build early academic confidence, CCP is a smart option worth considering.
How the Program Works
College Credit Plus partners Ohio’s public, private and charter schools with participating colleges and universities. Once accepted, students can enroll in approved college courses that count toward high school graduation requirements while also moving them closer to a degree or credential.
Courses may be taken:
- Online
- On a college campus
- At the student’s high school (if instructors meet credentialing requirements)
Students can take anywhere from a single course to a full schedule, depending on their goals and readiness.
Real Savings for Families
For public school students, tuition, textbooks and required course fees are covered by the state. This is one of the few programs where students can earn college credits with virtually no financial burden. By the time they graduate high school, many CCP participants have already completed the equivalent of a semester or more of college coursework.
Private school and homeschool students may have partial funding depending on state allocations, but they still benefit from significantly reduced costs.
Academic and Personal Benefits
Students who participate in CCP gain more than just credits. The program offers a chance to:
- Explore college-level subjects early
- Experience a higher academic challenge
- Build confidence in managing college expectations
- Strengthen college and scholarship applications
- Clarify career interests sooner
For many students, the experience makes the transition to college smoother and less overwhelming.
Who Can Participate
Requirements vary by institution, but students typically qualify by meeting college readiness benchmarks through placement tests or GPA, maintaining good academic standing and submitting required CCP intent and application forms on time.
Colleges ultimately decide which students are admitted into their CCP courses.
Important Deadlines
Families must submit an intent to participate form by April 1 each year. Colleges often have additional deadlines for admission and placement, so starting early helps ensure nothing is missed.
Factors to Consider
While CCP is widely beneficial, parents should talk with their student about whether they are ready for the pace and independence of college coursework, how college grades become part of the student’s permanent academic record and whether there may be scheduling conflicts with extracurricular activities or part-time jobs.
These considerations help families make a balanced decision based on readiness, not just opportunity.
A Strong Opportunity for Motivated Students
College Credit Plus is a practical way for Ohio students to get ahead academically while reducing future college costs. It gives motivated learners a chance to challenge themselves, explore interests and enter college with a meaningful head start. For families who have not looked closely at CCP before, now is a good time to explore what it can offer.