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OtterBound

OtterBound is a dual credit program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) that gives Idaho high school students the opportunity to complete and Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree by the time they graduate high school. With built-in support and a clear plan, OtterBound can help you stay on track, reach your goals, and confidently take your next steps after graduation. 

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Benefits

  • Personalized Support
    Receive dedicated advising, structured planning, and built-in check-ins to help you stay on track. Our team will be there to guide you every step of the way so you can focus on learning, growing, and achieving your goals.
     
  • First Pick of Classes
    As an OtterBound student, you can register early for classes at CWI, giving you the best chance to build the perfect schedule around your high school and extracurricular commitments.
     
  • A Step Ahead
    Save thousands of dollars and years of time by completing an associate degree by high school graduation. 

Eligibility

Students interested in participating in OtterBound must: 

  • Be a high school student in Idaho.
  • Have completed or are currently registered for at least one CWI class through your high school, IDLA, or in-person or online at CWI.
  • Have a cumulative high school and CWI GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  • Know which major or degree you would like to pursue. 

Haven't registered for a CWI dual credit class yet? Take your first step by scheduling an advising appointment to explore class options. 

Ready to apply? Attend an OtterBound Orientation to get started. 

Contact Us with Questions

Application Period

Sept. 1 – May 1 

  • Applications are accepted during a student's freshman to sophomore year of high school.
  • Application deadline: End of sophomore year (May 1)
    • Students who have completed their sophomore year may qualify for exceptions to the deadline. Contact your advisor for details.

Steps to Apply

The OtterBound application process starts with understanding the program and getting your questions answered as you prepare to complete the application.

After you have completed or registered for a CWI class, your first step is to schedule and attend OtterBound Orientation online, via Zoom. Haven't registered for a CWI dual credit class yet? Schedule an advising appointment. 

During orientation, you will learn: 

  • What OtterBound is, what to expect, and how to apply.
  • Degree options, costs, and funding opportunities.
  • Answers to common questions.

Prepare before You Attend

  • Request a copy of your high school transcript from your high school.
  • Download a copy of your unofficial college transcripts from any college where you have taken classes or earned credit.
  • Identify the majors you like most at CWI.

Attendance Requirements

  • Attendance is required in order to complete an OtterBound application.
  • Students must be present with their camera on for the entire session to receive attendance credit.
  • Parents/guardians are welcome to attend but are not required.

Register for OtterBound Orientation

After attending OtterBound orientation, you will receive an email from CWI Dual Credit with access to the OtterBound application.

If you have attended a session but did not receive an email, please contact us.

Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by an advising committee. 

  • If you qualify and have room in your schedule, our team will create a semester-by-semester degree plan for you within 2 – 4 weeks.
  • When your plan is ready, it will be emailed to you and your high school counselor for review.
  • If adjustments are needed — such as adding, removing, or changing classes — we will update the plan together.
  • Once everyone agrees to the plan and path forward, you, your parent or guardian, and your high school counselor will each sign a commitment form to officially confirm your spot in the OtterBound program. 

To stay in OtterBound, you must: 

  • Meet with your CWI OtterBound advisor at least once a year to review your progress and plan next steps.
  • Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA to stay in good academic standing.
  • Meet with a Work-Based Learning Center team member for direction and assistance with career exploration and next steps.
  • Complete a graduation review with your OtterBound advisor during your senior year to make sure you are ready to finish strong. 

Questions?