9 Colleges That Accept Juniors in High School for 2025

There's a lot to look forward to in high school, but some just can't wait to get a jump on college. High school students with a strong academic record, high test scores, and many extracurricular activities may be ready to move on to college classes.

There's a lot to consider before applying to college as a junior. Let's take a look at nine high-quality colleges that accept juniors in high school.

Can High School Juniors Start College Early?

Juniors can start college a year early, but there are several things to consider before shortening your high school experience. A college admissions office looks at several factors:

• overall grade point average (GPA)
• standardized test scores
• test scores from advanced placement (AP) or international baccalaureate (IB) classes
• extracurricular activities
• letters of recommendation

College applications can be due as early as November, meaning you've got less time to meet eligibility requirements. It's not impossible to get accepted to college as a junior; there are many high-quality colleges that accept anyone. But if this is your goal, you need to start college prep early.

When Can a Junior in High School Apply for College?

Some applications are due as early as November, while other schools allow you to apply at the end of your junior year. Online courses may have more flexible start dates; interested students should look into online colleges starting this month.

If you just want to start taking college-level courses, look into summer programs and pre-college programs. These may have more flexible deadlines for high school students and will help you get a jump start on your college career.

Colleges That Accept Juniors in High School

If you're ready to graduate early and get a jump on college life, then take a look at these nine accredited schools. Each offers either early-bird programs or dual-enrollment programs that allow you to take college coursework while completing your high school diploma.

1. Auburn University

The Auburn First dual-enrollment program is open to high school students the summer after 10th grade. Eligible students should have a 3.5 GPA and a support form from either their school counselor or principal. All Auburn First students will take asynchronous, online classes and can complete up to 24 credit hours.

• Estimated tuition cost: $50 per credit hour for partner high schools
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Florida Atlantic University

High schoolers can spend their senior year studying full-time at Florida Atlantic (FAU), earning credits that count toward both a high school diploma and a college degree. Courses must be approved by both a high school counselor and an FAU early admissions advisor. Tuition and fees are waived by the state of Florida and all textbooks are provided to public school students for free.

• Estimated tuition cost: $203.29 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

3. Florida International University

Early applicants to Florida International (FIU) must include the following in their application:

• a written explanation of why you are applying early
• transcripts
• a 4.0 GPA
• a 1380 SAT or 29 ACT
• a letter from your principal or guidance counselor explaining why you would benefit from starting college early

Admitted students will not receive a high school diploma, but will begin their senior year at FIU. Florida International has a 50% acceptance rate.

• Estimated tuition cost: $205.57 per credit hour
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Delaware State University

Delaware State offers an early bird program for eligible juniors. Students must submit:

• a recommendation from their principal or guidance counselor
• written parental approval
• 2.5 or higher GPA

Applicants will still attend high school and can take no more than six credit hours per semester at Delaware State. Those with a GPA of 3.0 or better are eligible for free tuition.

• Estimated tuition cost: $389 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

5. Lamar University

In 2025, Lamar University launched its early-bird program to offer college admission and scholarships to eligible juniors. The highest scholarship is $40,000 spanning four years.

Eligible students must rank in the top 50% of their class, have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and be submitted for consideration by their high school. All accepted students are offered the University Scholars scholarship.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,293 per semester
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

6. The University of Texas at San Antonio

The early admission program at the University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA) is designed for high school juniors and seniors who want to start earning college credit while still in high school. Applicants must submit transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a letter from their guidance counselor, and pay application fees.

• Estimated tuition cost: $11,448 per year
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

7. Montclair State University

Most majors are compatible with Montclair State's early bird program, but some art and design, performing arts, and specialized programs have additional requirements. The nursing program is not eligible.

Applicants should apply online and submit official transcripts. Students are strongly encouraged to submit a self-reported academic record when junior year grades are available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $15,678 per year
• Accreditation: MSCHE

8. Cairn University

In addition to standard application procedures, early applicants to Cairn must include:

• a written statement of why you are applying early
• a letter of recommendation
• written parental endorsement
• an interview

Along with academic excellence, Cairn considers the student's maturity, personal qualities, and overall readiness for college. Early admission students are not eligible for federal or state financial aid.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,997 per semester
• Accreditation: MSCHE

9. St. John's University

High-achieving students can complete both their senior year of high school and freshman year of college at St. John's. Students must be older than 16, have a strong academic record and high test scores, show both emotional and intellectual intelligence, have two letters of recommendation, and pass a personal interview with the university. Admitted students are eligible for academic scholarships.

• Estimated tuition cost: $26,990 per semester
• Accreditation: MSCHE

Who Should Consider Early-Entrance Programs?

The application process can be rigorous, especially for juniors who have one less year to prepare. However, students with a particularly strong academic record, especially those who have exhausted what they can learn from high school classes, should consider applying to college early.

If you have a clear goal in mind for your future career, then remember that starting college early is not your only option. Taking community college classes is a great way to complete prerequisite courses, especially if you plan to go into advanced programs like healthcare or law. This allows you to skip those classes as a first-year college student, saving money and potentially graduating from college earlier.

How To Apply to College as a Junior in High School

The first step to applying to college as a junior is to narrow your college search. If you haven't taken the SATs yet, then look for schools that are test-optional. You should also speak with your high school counselor about this decision.

Your counselor may be able to help you navigate any admissions requirements, including gathering letters of recommendation and ensuring you have passed all required classes. As a high-school-aged student, you may not be eligible for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but you can apply for scholarships.

FAQs About Colleges That Accept High School Juniors

With high school graduation coming a year early, you probably have a lot of questions about college. Below, we'll answer your biggest college FAQs.

Do Juniors Need a Minimum GPA?

Most schools will list GPA minimums under admissions requirements. High school juniors do not need a different GPA than all other applicants, but it's important to remember that high school seniors have had one extra year to bulk up their GPA. So, before applying, ensure you already have a strong academic record.

When Should Juniors Start Applying to College?

Many schools with an early bird program have an application deadline of December at the latest. This means that you'll need to have your application in before the conclusion of your first semester junior year. Stay organized and focused to make sure you put together the strongest application possible.

Can I Earn College Credit During High School?

Yes, you can earn college credit through AP and IB classes, or by taking classes at your local community college. Many schools also offer online courses or have established partnerships with local high schools to help students get college credit early.

Enroll in a College Today

College is an exciting time to grow both academically and personally. Speak with your guidance counselor about how to put together a resume that makes you stand out, even from older students. Reach out to one of the schools featured on Learn.org today and ask about applying early.