The Homeschool Family’s Guide to College Credit Plus

Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) funding program is one of the most valuable opportunities available to homeschool families. Since its launch in 2015, CCP has opened the door for students across the state in grades 7–12 to earn both high school and college credit at the same time — for free!

Through the dedicated advocacy of organizations like CHEO (Christian Home Educators of Ohio), homeschool families have seen steady growth in the funding available to them. While the application and funding process can seem complicated, if you plan ahead and follow each step carefully, you can confidently access this valuable opportunity for free college credit!

This guide explains what CCP is, how homeschool families can apply for funding, and how to make the most of this opportunity for your student.

What Is College Credit Plus (CCP)?

CCP is Ohio’s statewide dual enrollment funding program that allows eligible students in grades 7–12 to take college courses — online, on campus, or at their high school (if available) — and earn both high school and college credit at the same time.

What Is The Difference Between CCP, Dual Enrollment, and Dual Credit?

Dual enrollment is the broader term colleges use for taking college courses during high school, while CCP is the funding program giving Ohio students access to free dual enrollment courses. Cedarville University, for example, calls its program Dual Enrollment. Other colleges may use names like College Now or Dual Credit, but the concept is the same.
Even if your student doesn’t receive CCP funding, families can always choose the self-pay option to take dual enrollment courses directly through participating colleges.

How Do I Know if My Student Is Eligible for CCP?

To participate, a student must be:

• An Ohio resident
• Enrolled in grades 7–12
• Academically eligible by state and college standards

Your student must meet any ONE of the following academic eligibility criteria:

• A cumulative unweighted GPA ≥ 3.00 
• A cumulative unweighted GPA ≥ 2.75 with an “A” or “B” in a relevant high school course, OR
• A remediation‐free score on a standard assessment (ACT, SAT, Accuplacer, etc.) per state definitions

In simple terms, if your student shows readiness for college-level work through GPA or test scores, they qualify.

How Do We Apply for CCP Funding as a Homeschool Family?

Start early! The full-year funding application window is February 1–April 1, and the half-year window (for spring-only courses) runs September 1–November 1. (College Credit Plus provides an Application Funding Manual with a step-by-step guide which is especially helpful for first-time applicants.)

Step 1: Create an OH|ID Account

• A parent (not the student) must create an account at ohid.ohio.gov.
• This login is required to access the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) CCP funding portal.

Tip: Create your OH|ID early — account setup may take a few business days.

Step 2: Complete the CCP Funding Application

• Log in to your OH|ID account and locate the CCP Funding Application.
• Submit one application per student per year.
• Families must reapply annually to continue receiving CCP funding.

Tip: Plan your requested credit hours carefully. While you won’t be penalized for unused hours, overestimating the credits you’ll use limits availability for other students.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Include in Your CCP Funding Application:

• Letter of exemption from your local school district
• College acceptance letter (at least one required)
• Letter of good standing (returning students)
• College transcript or grade report (returning students)

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

• Confirm your application status says “Submitted.”
• Applications not submitted by the deadline cannot be funded.

Step 5: Award and Forward

• Funding awards are typically released five weeks after the deadline.
• Complete your college’s registration, orientation, and advising steps.
• Homeschool families are responsible for purchasing textbooks.

Why Should I Choose Cedarville University for My Student’s CCP Courses?

As one of Ohio’s approved private CCP institutions, Cedarville University offers homeschool families more than just college credit — it offers a Christ-centered education that shapes students’ minds and hearts.

At Cedarville, every course is taught by professors who are both experts in their field and deeply committed to a biblical worldview. Students don’t just earn transferable, accredited credits — they grow in wisdom, faith, and character. Whether online or on campus, students are welcomed into a vibrant Christian community that values excellence and truth.

Many homeschool students also choose Cedarville for its flexible dual enrollment pathways, which can lead to up to 15–30 early credits toward future degrees in nursing, pharmacy, education, engineering, and more. 

Students who attend Cedarville’s Summer Scholars program can also enjoy a two-week on-campus experience where they earn three credits, live in the dorms, and build friendships that last a lifetime.

Cedarville’s distinct combination of academic rigor, personal mentorship, and spiritual formation prepares students not only for college but for life — equipping them to live intentionally “for the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ.”

How Does My Student Apply To Take Dual Enrollment Courses at Cedarville?

To apply, students complete a short online application and submit a high school transcript showing a minimum 3.0 GPA. A Christian leader reference is also required to share about the student’s faith and character. Cedarville is test-optional, so test scores are not required unless a transcript is unavailable

Learn more or apply

A Final Encouragement for You

The College Credit Plus funding program is a tremendous blessing for homeschool families. And after you’ve gone through the application process once, it becomes much easier in future years!

Before signing up for classes, take time to pray and plan carefully. Help your student create a clear high school graduation plan that reflects their goals, maturity, and calling. College Credit Plus is a wonderful tool, but it’s not always the right next step simply because it’s free. Each student’s path is unique, and wisdom comes from seeking God’s direction first!

With thoughtful preparation, prayer, and the right support, you can confidently guide your student to build a strong academic and spiritual foundation — saving time and money while preparing them for a life of purpose, influence, and impact for Christ.