Many colleges have come up with online programs that allow High School students to jump start their college learning with a process called dual enrolment. These programs allow homeschool students to study college courses in the comfort of their home, reducing the cost of the early college credits that they earn. Plus these credits count towards the actual graduation credits and allow them to complete college faster.

This is really good news in light of the fact that according to USA Today, “the class of 2014 graduated with an average student loan debt of $33,000.”Forbes recently cited that “student loan debt has reached a new milestone, crossing the $1.2 trillion mark — $1 trillion of that in federal student loan debt.” Most parents really dread getting into college debt and passing it on to homeschool students may be very difficult. So speak with your children freely before you decide on a definite course of action.

Scout for Universities Offering Early College Programs

There are a number of Universities that offer low tuition fee based programs that High School students may complete online. Make sure that you ask about dual enrolment policies so that  you are aware if the students need to take exams physically in the college campus, or can complete them online. Ensure that the credits earned in the program can be counted towards the eventual college degree. Some courses do not count and even if your child completes them successfully it will be to no avail in the bigger picture.

Don’t Discount Local Community Colleges

While it may be tempting to go for the big guns, don’t discount your local community college. There is a good likelihood of your homeschool student preferring to attend the actual classes  there and interacting with teachers and students to get a better perspective on college learning. While they may not complete their four years at the community college, let them get the feel of how college works. Plus some community colleges allow High School students to get around 15 credits for free. That would make a huge difference financially speaking.