2026-2027 Dual Credit Options

Dual credit classes let high school students earn both high school and college credits at the same time. This can be done by taking a college-level class or earning a qualifying exam score. Studies show that students who take dual credit classes are more likely to graduate on time, go to college, stay in college, or start a career right after high school. These classes also count toward Washington’s credit requirements for graduation and give students a taste of college-level work. Even if students don't earn college credit, taking these classes can boost their confidence, introduce them to new careers, and offer more class choices. 

Washington state requires schools to have an academic acceleration policy to make sure that capable students are challenged and encouraged to take tougher classes, such as dual credit. The Bellevue School District’s policy can be found at 2195: Course Progression for High School Students. Some students may choose not to follow this policy if it does not fit their High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP). However, dual credit programs offer many ways for students to advance their academic and career goals. 

Dual Credit Options 

Washington state has six dual credit programs. The college preparatory programs with exams are Advanced Placement, Cambridge International, and International Baccalaureate. The class-based dual credit programs are Career and Technical Education (CTE) Dual Credit, College in the High School, and Running Start. Although not a traditional dual credit program, Open Doors Youth Re-engagement also helps students who are not expected to graduate by age 21 to earn college credit. Bellevue School District offers all these dual credit programs listed above, except Cambridge International. 

Learn More and Request Courses 

Find out more on our College Credit Options webpage. Classes available through these programs can be found in our online Course Catalog using the “College Credit Available” filter. Course registration for the 2026-2027 school year is now available. Visit the Requesting Courses webpage to get started. 

All dual credit programs are marked on the official high school transcript, whether the student earns college credit or not. Students must request and submit official college transcripts for earned college credit(s) to be transferred to the colleges they apply to. More information on each program can be found on the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) Dual Credit Programs webpage. 

Supporting districts to maximize students’ access to dual credit classes is a top priority for our state’s lawmakers and OSPI. Most of Washington’s dual credit programs are offered at little to no cost to students as part of their public education experience. Financial assistance opportunities are available for each of our dual credit programs. 

We at the Bellevue School District recognize the value of dual credit and the importance of ensuring equitable access to these opportunities. We encourage interested students to work closely with our school counselors to find the best options for their academic and career goals. Questions about dual credit classes can be directed to your student’s high school counselor.