How Online High School Works
Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA) knows success is not a single destination, and the journey can take many turns. But no matter the path, we believe in unlocking every learner’s potential by meeting them where they are and helping them reach their goals.
Explore Our Courses
As students move through middle school and into high school, their work becomes increasingly independent. High school courses are designed for students targeting a four-year university, a local community college, or an immediate career.
Many high school courses are offered at three levels: on-level, honors, and Advanced Placement® (AP®).
In all three course levels, students:
- Learn grade-level content
- Complete coursework that might require writing or research projects
- Tackle problems that require analytical thinking
In honors courses, students also:
- Evaluate and synthesize information
- Demonstrate more advanced writing skills
- Participate in honors projects
In AP® courses, students prepare to take the AP® exam in a particular subject. Their AP® exam score may allow them to receive college credit, as determined by the college.
We also offer credit recovery courses for students who need to catch up.
Preparing High School Students for College and Career
Your teen can gain a competitive edge for the future — whether that includes college, a career, or both. ARVA gives students the opportunity to explore career options and participate in specialized, career-related experiences. They can also prepare to take industry-recognized certification exams upon graduation.2
Students can choose from a broad range of courses in our Career & College Prep program.
Get Ahead With Dual Enrollment Courses
It’s never too early to start thinking about life after high school. And at ARVA, qualified high schoolers can get a head start on their future goals by taking advantage of dual enrollment opportunities. That means your student can be enrolled in courses that will count toward their diploma, plus earn them college credits they’ll be able to apply toward a degree. It’s double credit for the same work, which saves students time, giving them the chance to earn a degree faster. It’s even possible for students to earn an associate’s degree by the time they graduate high school.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dual credit?
Dual credit, also known as concurrent credit, offers students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit simultaneously. This can benefit those who wish to graduate early, experience the college environment prior to graduation, earn certificates, or even earn an associate’s degree by the time they graduate high school.
How much does dual credit cost?
In general, tuition costs range from $125-150 per course and the family of the enrolling student is responsible for these costs. Some colleges do offer scholarships that reduce or cover the full cost of tuition.
How many college credits can my student earn while in high school?
There is no mandated limit on how many college credits a student can earn while in high school. Some students earn credits equivalent to a full year of college, or have even earned an associate’s degree by the time they graduate high school.
From which colleges can students earn credit?
Dual credit can be earned through over 20 colleges and universities. See a list of all dual credit granting institutions here.
How do I enroll my student in dual credit with ARVA?
First, you will need to enroll your student in ARVA. Next, your student will be asked to submit a form to the school counselor indicating basic information regarding what types of courses they are looking to take through dual credit. After that, the counselor will review the form, meet with your student, and will recommend the college they think is the best fit. Your student will then choose and apply directly to the college.
Arkansas Virtual Academy High School has been recognized as an EAST Level 1 Program of Influence! EAST is an Arkansas-based educational initiative that is a technology-driven, student-led, service-learning program. Learn more about the recognition: www.eastinitiative.org.
1The K12 high school catalog is a complete list of the high school courses K12 provides. While ARVA offers a comprehensive selection of courses, not every K12 high school course is available to ARVA students. Information on specific courses of study and available electives is provided upon enrollment. For details, please speak to an enrollment consultant during the enrollment process.
2Many Microsoft® Office certificates can be earned after completing one course. Other certificates require more classes to ensure students are better prepared, and students who participate in the program for at least two years will receive further preparation for certification testing.