Global High School Scholars
Our Global High School Scholars program, allows motivated high school students from around the world to enroll in a variety of online college courses offered by Foothill College and De Anza College while completing their secondary education in their home countries.
By successfully completing a course, you earn U.S. college credit that appears on an official Foothill or De Anza College transcript and may be transferable to universities in the United States and internationally, depending on each institution’s transfer policies.
Beyond the credit itself, you gain early exposure to the U.S. college academic environment. You’ll learn how to engage with college professors, manage university-level assignments, participate in online discussions, and meet academic expectations similar to those of full-time college students.
For many students, this experience builds confidence, strengthens university applications, and provides a smoother transition to future undergraduate study, whether in the U.S. or elsewhere.
How do I apply?
High school students who are interested in taking online classes through the Global High School Scholars program must complete our online application HERE
Once your application is reviewed, you will receive detailed next steps and guidance on course registration and enrollment.
What classes can I take?
International students can take most Foothill or De Anza College courses online as long as prerequisites are met. Many students abroad choose general education, transfer level, or major related classes. We strongly recommend starting with general education courses because they are flexible, widely transferable, and help you build a strong academic foundation while you explore interests. They also keep more options open when you apply to universities later.
How do I find the online class(es)?
Search the FOOTHILL CLASS SCHEDULE and DE ANZA CLASS SCHEDULE filter for classes listed as Fully Online. Check whether the course is synchronous (meets at set days/times) or asynchronous (no live meetings) and choose what works best for you. We strongly recommend that you take asynchronous classes to avoid time zone issues.
Do I need to take an assessment?
Yes, some courses, including Math and ESL/English, require you to complete a placement process prior to registering. If you want to register for Math, ESL/English or another course with a prerequisite, follow instructions for assessment on the Foothill Assessment website Assessment website or the De Anza Assessment website.
When can I register?
Registration opens approximately two months prior to the quarter start date. Once your individual registration time is available, it will be posted in the Student Registration app in MyPortal. Review the Foothill academic calendar or De Anza academic calendar for a general outline of all important dates by quarter.
How can I register?
Please review the Foothill Registration Steps and De Anza Registration Guide for detailed steps on how to access MyPortal and enroll in classes. If you come across any issues, contact the International Student Programs office at Foothill or De Anza for assistance.
Can I drop a class after registering?
Yes. Drops must be done through MyPortal. For fall, winter and spring quarters, dropping within the first two weeks of the quarter removes it from your record and will allow you to request a refund. Dropping a class after the second week may result in a W (withdraw) or other grade, and you will be responsible for paying tuition fees. Refer to your class schedule to confirm drop deadlines.
How do I pay my tuition?
Tuition is due upon registration. Students who do not pay their tuition in full before the start of the term will be dropped from their classes. Review nonresident rates on the Foothill cashier website or the De Anza cashier website. Payment options are found Here.
How much time per week will I have to spend on my online classes?
One unit is equivalent to three hours per week. For most academic courses, this breaks down to one hour of class time (time spent on lecture or online course readings, videos, materials) and 2 hours of additional study time (time spent completing course assignments) per week.
What should I know about Academic Integrity when taking classes online?
Academic Integrity means that all the work you submit in your online classes is truly your own effort. Even though you’re studying remotely, you’re expected to follow the same standards as any on-campus student. This includes completing quizzes and exams without unauthorized help, not using AI tools or websites to generate answers unless your instructor clearly allows it, properly citing any sources you use, and avoiding sharing assignments or test answers with others. If you’re ever unsure whether something is allowed, ask your instructor before submitting the work. For more detail about your responsibilities and the possible consequences for violations, please refer to the policies HERE (Academic Integrity at De Anza College)
Will I be considered a transfer student when I apply to universities?
No. Taking online classes in high school does not make you a transfer applicant. You will still apply as a first-year/freshman unless you continue at Foothill or De Anza after graduating from high school.
Students who complete courses through the program can request a transcript showing the final grade earned in each class. This becomes part of your permanent U.S. college record. You can report these courses and grades on your university applications, and if you are admitted, universities will typically require you to submit your official college transcript. Most courses are graded with a letter grade, though some may offer a Pass/No Pass option. Pass/No Pass grades do not affect your GPA, but some universities may prefer or require letter grades for certain courses.
What if I decide to apply for admission as a regular full-time student to start my Bachelor’s Degree at Foothill or De Anza?
When you’re ready to take it to the next level and enroll with us as full time student you’ll submit the regular application for international students HERE
Who can I contact for help?
The De Anza International Students Admission team can support you. Email questions to daintladmissions@deanza.edu. The Foothill International Students Admission team can support you. Email questions to fhintladmissions@foothill.edu