Tips To Shorten Your College Study Time

If you’re looking to save money or are eager to jumpstart your professional or academic career, speeding up your college education might be a good fit for you. You can reduce your time in college by enrolling in a fast-track program, taking courses before college or during breaks, or testing out of certain classes. Additionally, focusing on your studies and minimizing other commitments can help you finish college sooner.

Strategy 1: Joining an Accelerated Degree Program

• Choose a School with Accelerated Degree Options

Some colleges and universities offer fast-track degree programs that let you complete a bachelor’s degree in three years or an associate’s degree in just one year. Search online for schools that offer accelerated degrees in your desired field. These programs are typically very structured, meaning you won’t have much flexibility in choosing courses. However, many of these programs offer extra guidance and support to help ensure students can complete their degrees on time.

• Check Eligibility for Accelerated Programs

To qualify for an accelerated degree program, you may need to meet specific requirements. Contact the colleges or universities you’re interested in to find out their criteria. Some programs may require a certain GPA from high school and maintaining a minimum GPA while enrolled. There might also be restrictions on how much you can work or how much you can spend on living expenses, such as needing to live with a parent or guardian to avoid housing costs.

• Find an Accelerated Program that Matches Your Needs

While many accelerated programs are designed for traditional students, there are also options for older students, those returning to school, or those balancing school with work and family. These flexible programs may offer shorter courses that last only 5-8 weeks instead of a full semester or quarter. To find these programs, look for schools offering accelerated options for “adult” or “continuing” learners.

• Consider Pursuing an Associate’s Degree

An associate’s degree typically takes two years to complete, but accelerated programs can reduce this to just one year. Associate’s degrees are usually less expensive than bachelor’s degrees, with low-cost options available at community colleges and many online institutions. Most associate’s programs in the U.S. require about 60 semester credits (around 20 classes). Some universities will accept an associate’s degree as credit toward a bachelor’s degree. While many employers prefer bachelor’s degrees, there are numerous career paths available with an associate’s degree, such as medical technician, web developer, occupational therapist assistant, or engineering technician.

Strategy 2: Completing Required Coursework Efficiently

• Take College Classes in High School

Many states offer programs allowing high school students to take college courses, known as “concurrent enrollment” or “dual enrollment.” Consult your high school guidance counselor to learn how to enroll in these programs. You can also search online for local dual enrollment opportunities. Some programs may require attending classes on a college campus, while others offer online courses or have university faculty teach at your high school or a local career center.

• Enroll in Summer Classes During College

Speed up your college journey by taking summer courses. Completing 1 or 2 required classes over the summer means fewer courses during the regular school year. If your college charges high tuition rates for summer classes, check if they accept transfer credits from your local community college. Discuss your options with your academic adviser before enrolling in classes at another institution. Summer courses are usually shorter and more intensive, so be ready for a fast-paced learning environment.

• Take Classes While Working

If you’re working but planning to start college soon, consider taking flexible courses to complete some requirements ahead of time. Evening or weekend classes at your local community college or self-paced online courses can help you earn credits before diving into a full-time degree program. This approach can also ease the transition into the full-time academic workload.

• Discuss Course Overload with Your Adviser

Most colleges have a maximum credit hour limit per term, but you can often get permission to exceed this limit by taking extra courses. This strategy can help you fulfill degree requirements faster. However, before committing to an overload, talk with your academic adviser. Ensure you’re not overextending yourself, as taking on too much can lead to burnout and ultimately slow your progress.

Strategy 3: Skipping Required Courses Through Testing

• Earn College Credits with Advanced Placement (AP) Classes

Enroll in AP classes during high school and take the corresponding exams. AP courses can help you earn college credit before you even start college. After completing an AP course, you can take the AP exam to demonstrate your mastery of the material. High scores on these exams often translate to college credits, reducing the number of courses you need to take in college. Speak with your school guidance counselor or AP teacher to see if AP classes are suitable for you.

Although there is a fee for taking AP exams, many high schools offer financial assistance for students who need it. Discuss fee reductions with your school counselor or AP Coordinator.

• Utilize CLEP Credits

The College Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows you to earn college credits for knowledge you already possess, whether from high school, work experience, or self-study. To gain CLEP credits, you need to take a CLEP exam. Check with your high school counselor about taking CLEP exams, or visit the CLEP website to find a nearby test center. Ensure that your prospective colleges accept CLEP credits and understand how they apply.

The College Board provides free online courses to help you prepare for CLEP exams. Currently, there are 33 CLEP exams covering various topics, including business, literature, foreign languages, math and science, and social sciences. Each CLEP exam costs $85.

• Seek Prior Learning Credit for Work Experience

If you have significant work experience, look for colleges that offer credit for prior learning. This option is particularly beneficial for non-traditional students who have been in the workforce before starting or returning to college. Each institution has its own policies regarding prior learning credit, so contact an admissions officer or check the school’s website for details.

You may need to take an exam or create a prior learning portfolio to receive credit, depending on the school’s requirements.

• Check for Placement Exams at Your College

Many colleges allow students to "test out" of basic general education courses through proficiency tests or placement exams. These exams typically assess fundamental skills such as math, reading, and writing. Contact your college’s admissions office to learn about their placement test policies.

For instance, excelling in the algebra section of your math placement test might allow you to skip directly to pre-calculus.

• Challenge Prerequisites with Your Adviser

If you have sufficient background knowledge, you might be able to skip certain prerequisite courses without formal testing. Discuss this option with your academic adviser, department head, or course instructor. Work closely with your adviser to identify which courses you can bypass.

Policies on challenging prerequisites vary widely between schools and departments, so it’s essential to understand the specific procedures in your program.

Strategy 4: Reducing Non-Academic Commitments

• Limit Employment During Your Studies

Juggling work and school can be challenging and may delay your graduation. To minimize the need to work while attending college, consider these strategies:

Opt for an in-state college or community college to take advantage of lower tuition fees.

Choose an online program or a school near your home to avoid paying for campus housing.

Seek out scholarships, grants, or federal student loans to help finance your education.

• Minimize Extracurricular Involvement

To expedite your college journey, focus on your required courses and reduce participation in extracurricular activities. This may mean foregoing student clubs, social events, or service opportunities. If you do engage in activities outside of your coursework, select those that align closely with your career goals.

• Decide on Your Major Early

Many students change their major at least once, but this can extend your time in college. To graduate faster, choose your major early and stick with it. This approach helps you avoid taking unnecessary courses and keeps you on track for your degree.

• Concentrate on Major-Specific Requirements

Taking elective courses that don't contribute to your degree can slow your progress. Instead, focus on classes required for your major. For example, while a course on medieval weaponry might sound interesting, it may not be beneficial for your Horticulture Studies degree. Consult with your adviser to ensure you are fulfilling your degree requirements efficiently.

• Utilize Your Support Network

Support from friends, family, advisers, and mentors can be crucial, especially when balancing school with other responsibilities. Don't hesitate to ask for help.

If you’re a working parent, seek assistance from relatives, friends, or fellow parents to watch your child while you complete your coursework. Look for support groups or clubs for non-traditional students at your school. Or reach out to teachers, advisers, and school staff if you encounter difficulties. They are there to help you succeed.