But these teens can often find ways to move at their own speed. Ideas include:

• Taking advanced placement courses. These challenging college-level courses can allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.

• Enrolling in a course at a local community college or a nearby college or university. This usually works best if two or three students take the course together with the support of an adult who helps keep them on track.

• Taking a college course during the summer.

• Planning to enter college a year early. It may be possible to take a few extra courses during the summer and graduate a year ahead.

• Entering college without a high school diploma. A few universities, including Mary Baldwin College in Virginia and Simon’s Rock College in Massachusetts, allow talented students to enroll before they have earned their high school diploma.

It is important to consider these last two options very carefully. If you think your teen might be interested, meet with your school counselor to discuss the pros and cons.

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