Accelerate ASU: study university courses during high school

Get a head start on a bachelor’s degree from the convenience of home. Through ASU’s unique Accelerate program, you can earn a semester’s worth of undergraduate credits for a fraction of the typical cost.

You’ll get to experience classes at a top-ranked U.S. university while in high school, and put yourself on a path to completing your degree in 3.5 years instead of 4.

Study 5 courses online

taught by the same ASU professors as on campus

Earn 15 undergraduate credits

toward an ASU degree or for transfer to another U.S. university

Save more than 75% on tuition for 1 semester

$3,500 for Accelerate ASU compared to $15,600 for on-campus study

How is Accelerate ASU unique?

Accelerate ASU is a fantastic opportunity for you to get ahead in your studies before you join university, and it’s unique among programs available at US universities.

ASU accelerate graphic

While other universities may allow students to take undergraduate courses before starting their bachelor’s degree, ASU’s Accelerate program stands out for a variety of reasons. These include:

Accelerate ASU is a package of courses that exactly align with the typical first semester of degrees in specific disciplines and majors. Other universities usually offer individual elective courses that count toward general education requirements.
You’ll receive a high level of personal support and mentorship to help you manage your workload and plan for your future. If you decide to apply to ASU, you’ll also receive extensive guidance on your application.
As an Accelerate student, you’ll have access to virtual activities and university resources, helping you to become part of ASU’s inclusive community even before you arrive in the USA.

Learn more about these and other benefits of Accelerate ASU.

Additional benefits of Accelerate ASU

Simple application with flexible start dates

To join the Accelerate program, all you need to do is submit an application online. No transcripts or English test scores are required to start.
Cost savings

The price for the entire Accelerate ASU program is just $3,500, which is less than the cost of a single on-campus ASU course!

Your Accelerate package includes 5 courses online and access to various ASU resources. You’ll also get a free Duolingo English proficiency exam for admission and guidance on applying to ASU.

This represents more than 75% savings in tuition costs for you, making a US education more affordable.
Study at your own pace

It takes about 12- 18 months (1 or 2 courses per semester recommended) to complete the Accelerate program, though you can start earlier and take longer if you prefer.

With ASU’s asynchronous adaptive learning technology, you can study in your own time zone and at the pace that works best for you.
Your own Learning Success Coach
Your Learning Success Coach will be the main point of contact for you and your family while you are studying in the Accelerate program. They can help you to:
- Create a schedule and ensure you stay on track
- Help you to manage your work load
- Meet weekly one-on-one to talk through any issues you may be experiencing with your studies
You and your family can contact your Learning Success Coach whenever you need additional help or support.

What can I study?

Accelerate ASU has a choice of 3 distinct academic tracks. Each gives you the chance to explore an exciting discipline before selecting your major and coming to the USA. Find out more about the 3 tracks below.

Engineering and technology
Get ahead in a wide choice of engineering, computing or technology bachelor’s degrees. This track is offered through ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, ranked among the top 45 undergraduate engineering programs in the USA (U.S. News & World Report 2021).

Your program will include these 5 courses:
- Calculus for Engineers I: Calculus with Analytic Geometry for Science and Engineering (MAT 265)
  A self-paced, college-level calculus course that is ideal for students interested in engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences, and life sciences.
- First-Year Composition (ENG 101)
  Increase your ability to develop and express ideas effectively. Special attention will be given to expository (to explain, describe or inform) and persuasive writing.
- General Chemistry for Engineers (CHM 114)
  Learn how atoms and molecules act and interact to make the modern materials that underpin technology and solve engineering challenges.
- Intro to Engineering (FSE 100)
  In this online engineering course, you will discover how to become a true engineer by exploring engineering design processes in a hands-on learning environment.
- Programming for Everyone (CSE 110)
  Learn how to solve problems using programs for the devices that are all around us.
General business
Get a significant head start on your business bachelor’s degree before graduating from high school. This track is offered through the W.P. Carey School of Business at ASU, ranked among the top 50 in the world by Times Higher World University Rankings 2021. The School of Business is committed to building a tight-knit community that welcomes diversity, encourages global thinking, and enables all students to thrive.

Your program will include these 5 courses:
- Brief Calculus (MAT 210)
  Explore calculus for business and economics. Topics include differential and integral calculus of elementary functions with applications.
- Computer Applications and Information Technology (CIS 105)
  Introduces business information systems from a business intelligence perspective. You will learn how to use application software for efficient and effective problem-solving.
- First-Year Composition (ENG 101)
  Increases your ability to develop ideas, express ideas effectively, and engage different literacies. It gives special attention to expository and persuasive writing.
- Introductory Sociology (SOC 101)
  Understand the fundamentals of sociology, organization of human groups and society, processes of interaction, and social change.
- Macroeconomic Principles (ECN 211)
  Learn the basics of macroeconomic analysis and economic institutions. This includes factors determining income, price, and employment levels.
Global leadership
Fast-track your path to a bachelor’s in global leadership or international trade. The Accelerate global leadership program is offered through ASU’s Thunderbird School of Global Management, so you’ll get a great education: ASU is ranked top 5 in the world for management (Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2020).

Your program will include these 5 courses:
- Brief Calculus (MAT 210)
  Explore calculus for business and economics. Topics include differential and integral calculus of elementary functions with applications.
- Computer Applications and Information Technology (CIS 105)
  Introduces business information systems from a business intelligence perspective. You will learn how to use application software for efficient and effective problem-solving.
- First-Year Composition (ENG 101)
  Increases your ability to develop ideas, express ideas effectively, and engage different literacies. It gives special attention to expository and persuasive writing.
- Introduction to Human Communication (COM 101)
  Learn the basic concepts of human communication, processes, and environments. This course covers communication topics related to culture, identity, organizations, and relationships.
- Principles of Global Management (TGM 101)
  A quick snapshot of key issues facing global corporations today with each of the major themes explored more fully in the set of advanced courses that follow.

Program details

Here are key facts about Accelerate ASU including costs and dates.

Location	This program is entirely online so you can complete it from home.
Duration	Recommended 12-18 months (1 or 2 courses per semester) , while you complete high school. Study is self-paced: minimum 12 months, maximum 4 years.
Who is it for?	High school students from Year 9 onward.
Cost	$3,500 for the full package including 5 courses taught online by the same ASU faculty that teach the on-campus courses.
Credits	15 undergraduate credits that count toward your ASU degree or you can transfer to another US university.
Entry requirements	No transcripts or English test scores are needed to start (we recommend you have an English proficiency equivalent to TOEFL 61+).
Start date	Varies by course; available on demand, or in January, March, June, August and October.