For many students, the journey through high school is a pathway leading directly to college. But how to get into college after high school isn’t always clear—especially when education takes place outside traditional classroom settings. At Forest Trail Academy, we specialize in helping students from kindergarten through 12th grade succeed in flexible, accredited online learning environments—and we’re here to guide you from high school to higher education.
Whether you’re in our online high school, starting from our online elementary school, or enrolled in any of our self-paced K-12 curriculum, you’re not alone. Planning your next steps after high school can be both exciting and overwhelming. This post breaks down the process and answers common questions like:
- Can you go to a university after high school?
- How to apply for college after high school?
- If you don’t graduate high school, can you still go to college?
Table of Contents
1. Start with a Strong High School Foundation
The road to college begins well before senior year. Whether you’re in 9th grade or 12th grade, building a strong academic record is key. At Forest Trail Academy, students benefit from:
- Accredited curriculum aligned with state and national standards
- Self-paced courses that allow you to master material at your own speed
- A variety of learning pathways including Christian homeschool curriculum and secular homeschool curriculum
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses to earn college credit in high school
Our online high school curriculum is designed to help students develop both academic excellence and self-discipline—two traits colleges highly value.
2. Understand What Colleges Are Looking For
Colleges want more than just good grades. They look at several key factors:
- High school GPA and transcript
- Standardized test scores (like SAT or ACT, though many schools are now test-optional)
- Extracurricular involvement
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essays or statements
One advantage of attending Forest Trail Academy is the flexibility to explore your passions outside the classroom. Whether you’re an athlete, artist, entrepreneur, or community volunteer, your real-world experiences can stand out on college applications.
3. Can You Go to a University After High School?
Absolutely. You can go to a university after high school—and many students from online high schools like Forest Trail Academy do. Colleges across the country accept students from virtual programs as long as those programs are accredited.
Our graduates have gone on to attend respected colleges and universities thanks to the strength of our curriculum and our commitment to academic integrity. So yes, you can go to a university after high school, even if you’ve earned your diploma online.
4. How to Apply for College After High School
The college application process typically involves the following steps:
a. Make a List of Schools
Choose a mix of “reach,” “match,” and “safety” schools based on your interests and academic profile. Don’t forget to consider:
- Location
- Size
- Campus culture
- Financial aid options
- Available majors and programs
b. Gather Your Application Materials
You’ll usually need:
- Your high school transcript (Forest Trail Academy provides official transcripts)
- Standardized test scores, if applicable
- Recommendation letters from teachers or mentors
- A personal essay for college application essay
c. Fill Out Applications
Most students use the Common Application, but some schools have their own application portals. Be sure to:
- Complete every section carefully
- Answer supplemental questions if required
- Submit before deadlines (early action/decision or regular decision)
d. Apply for Financial Aid
Don’t skip this step! Financial aid can make college much more affordable.
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
- Look for scholarships from schools, nonprofits, and community organizations
- Consider work-study programs and grants
At Forest Trail Academy, our team is always available to help you organize these steps and stay on track.
5. If You Don’t Graduate High School, Can You Still Go to College?
This is a common concern. The short answer: Yes, but with limitations.
If you don’t graduate high school, your college options may be more limited. However, you can still pursue higher education by:
- Earning a GED or high school equivalency diploma
- Enrolling in community college and then transferring to a four-year university
- Exploring trade schools, certification programs, or online colleges that accept non-traditional students
The best option? Stay on track to earn your high school diploma. At Forest Trail Academy, our flexible program helps students who have fallen behind catch up—while providing personalized support along the way.
6. Create a Strong College Application Timeline
Here’s a simplified timeline for high school students preparing for college:
9th & 10th Grade
- Focus on strong grades in core courses
- Explore interests and extracurriculars
- Consider taking honors or AP courses
11th Grade
- Take the PSAT, SAT, or ACT
- Begin researching colleges
- Visit campuses (virtual or in-person)
- Start building your resume and gathering recommendation contacts
12th Grade
- Finalize your college list
- Write and revise application essays
- Submit applications and FAFSA
- Apply for scholarships
- Make your final decision by spring
Forest Trail Academy provides the flexibility you need to build a competitive application—without the stress of rigid class schedules.
7. Online High School and College Readiness
There’s a myth that students from online schools are less prepared for college. The truth? Many online learners are more prepared because they’ve already developed essential skills like:
- Time management
- Self-discipline
- Digital communication
- Independent learning
Our graduates often thrive in college because they’re already used to managing their own time and learning pace—something traditional students may struggle with in a less structured college setting.
8. What Makes Forest Trail Academy Different?
As a fully accredited online K-12 school, we offer:
- Flexible, asynchronous programs for all grade levels
- Personalized learning for all students—whether you’re in kindergarten, middle school, or high school
- Both Christian and secular homeschool curriculum options
- A wide range of courses, including advanced placement classes and career-focused electives
- One-on-one teacher support and access to a responsive academic advising team
We’re committed to helping every student not just graduate—but thrive beyond high school.
9. How Forest Trail Academy Helps with College Admissions
We don’t just offer online classes—we support you throughout the entire college application process. Here’s how:
- Transcript requests made easy
- Academic counselors available to guide course selections based on college goals
- College planning resources for students and parents
- Guidance on dual enrollment opportunities, test prep, and personal essays
Got questions about college admissions or need help navigating the application process? We’re here to assist you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re just beginning your high school journey or preparing to submit college applications, Forest Trail Academy offers the flexibility and support you need to succeed. We believe every student deserves a clear path to college—no matter where or how they study.
Got questions about our Online School?
Let us know if you have any questions about online schooling. We’re here to assist you.
Call us at 561-537-5501
Email: support@foresttrailacademy.com
Or submit an inquiry to our admissions team today.
Your future starts now—let’s walk the path together.
