Is traditional high school holding your ambitious teen back?

Not every student thrives within the walls of a conventional high school. Some feel limited by the subjects offered, others struggle to fit in socially, and many simply crave more challenge and independence. The good news: there are many alternative paths to high school success that can help your teen pursue their passions, build confidence, and prepare for college — and life — in meaningful ways.

Independent Study

For students eager to dive deeper into subjects like psychology, computer science, or comparative religion, independent study can be a game-changer.

At Berkeley High School in California, for example, seniors can design their own programs. Tali Biale, who went on to graduate from Wesleyan University, created a comparative religion course, balanced AP classes, and met weekly with teachers one-on-one.

“I wanted something different from the regular high school schedule,” she explains. “Independent study taught me to manage my time and prepared me for college.”

Many high schools will approve independent study if there’s a scheduling conflict or if a motivated student wants to explore a subject not offered on campus. Check with your school to see what’s available.

Advanced Placement (AP)

AP courses bring college-level rigor into high school classrooms. With 40 subjects ranging from calculus to art history, these classes allow students to challenge themselves and potentially earn college credit by passing the AP exam.

AP courses are available in nearly 23,000 schools, and many states also sponsor online options. While the exam costs $99, fee reductions are available in some states. For more, explore the College Board AP Program.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a rigorous, two-year curriculum recognized in over 100 countries. Students graduate with an IB diploma that demonstrates academic depth, critical thinking, and global awareness — a credential many universities highly value.

Online High Schools & Courses

For self-directed learners, online education offers flexibility and access to subjects far beyond what’s available at most high schools.

• Virtual High School (VHS): Founded in 1996, VHS now serves 16,000+ students with 200+ courses (including 30 APs). Students engage in discussions, group projects, and classes ranging from veterinary medicine to screenwriting.

• Stanford Online High School: Launched in 2006, this selective, tuition-based school serves gifted learners worldwide. Classes are small, interactive, and highly rigorous. Students like Maya Lewis, a musician from Texas, found it both challenging and inspiring: “Learning how to learn on my own has been valuable — it’s preparing me well for college.”

• University-Based Programs: Mizzou Academy, Indiana University, and the University of Nebraska all offer online high school courses (including AP) at varying tuition rates, allowing students to pursue accredited diplomas or electives at their own pace.

Summer Programs

Summer can be more than a break — it can be an opportunity to stretch intellectually. Programs at Northwestern University, Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford offer advanced courses, workshops, and even college credit. Students live on campus, experience pre-college life, and engage with peers who share their ambitions.

College Courses During High School

Some high schoolers are ready for more advanced material. Many community colleges and universities allow dual enrollment. Students earn both high school and college credits simultaneously — often at reduced or no tuition cost. UCLA, Long Island University, and Cal Poly Humboldt are just a few institutions with such offerings.

Early & Middle College Programs

Early College High Schools (ECHS) and Middle Colleges blend high school with college coursework. Students often graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree.

These programs have expanded nationwide, supported by initiatives like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Early College High School Initiative. For example, Middle College at the College of San Mateo enabled Sarah Aires to graduate with 28 college credits, giving her a head start at UC Santa Cruz.

Gap Year Programs

Not every student is ready to leap directly from high school to college. A gap year can provide valuable perspective, real-world experience, and personal growth.

• Dynamy Internship Year in Massachusetts places students in internships, outdoor challenges, and community service, with options for college credit.

• CIEE Gap Year Abroad allows students to immerse themselves in new cultures, languages, and volunteer experiences in cities like Florence, Berlin, and Kyoto.

Many colleges support or even encourage gap years, recognizing the maturity and clarity students gain from them.

Final Thoughts

If your teen is restless, ambitious, or simply outgrowing the boundaries of traditional high school, they don’t have to wait for college to spread their wings. From independent study and AP classes to online schools, summer programs, and gap years, there are multiple routes to success.

The key is to find the path that excites your teen, challenges them, and helps them discover who they truly want to become.