High School Students

Get a jump start on your college education while you’re still in high school. Courses taken through these programs count toward your college certificate or degree.

Career Technical Education (CTE) Transitions

Students can earn college credits for specific CTE courses taken in high school that will transfer to certificate and degree programs at Palomar College!

The CTE program provides academic and vocational preparation in a career pathway. CTE students begin their program of study in high school and then transition into post-secondary education to earn an advanced technical degree or certification.

More About CTE for High School Students

Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment is a program where college classes are offered at participating high schools intended for high school students to earn both high school and college credit completely free of charge! Dual enrollment sets up classes according to the needs of the high school and offers structured pathways and guided support.

Learn More About Dual Enrollment

Concurrent Enrollment

Concurrent Enrollment is an opportunity for high school students to take a community college course at their own discretion at a Palomar campus or online. The $46/unit for tuition is waived, but students are required to pay for textbooks and some additional fees.

View the Steps for Concurrent Enrollment

Additional Programs for High School Students

Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP)

GEAR UP is a Department of Education grant-funded student program offered through Palomar College and partnering at local schools, Fallbrook High School, Vista High School, Rancho Buena Vista High School, and Valley Center High School. GEAR UP offers college readiness and outreach services to the graduating classes of 2022 and 2023. GEAR UP works to support students in preparation to attend post-secondary schools, particularly for at-risk, low-income, and first-generation college-bound students.

Learn More About the GEAR UP Program

Upward Bound

Upward Bound is a year-round comprehensive academic college preparation and retention program that serves students from North County High Schools. Upward Bound provides academic instruction and support, and promotes academic excellence to high-potential college bound students preparing to attend and graduate from a four year university upon high school graduation.

Learn More About the Upward Bound Program

Educational Talent Search (ETS)

TRIO Educational Talent Search is a federally funded program offered through Palomar College in partnership with Escondido Union School District, Escondido Union High School District, and Vista Unified School District.

The mission of Educational Talent Search is to equip first-generation and low-income students and parents with accurate information on post-secondary and financial aid opportunities to empower students to attend the college or university of their choice after graduating from high school.

Learn More About the ETS Program