Two students sitting outside CWI building

OtterBound

Âé¶¹´«Ã½’s (CWI) OtterBound program is a great opportunity for motivated high school students who want to complete an associate degree by high school graduation! With built-in support and a clear plan, OtterBound helps you stay on track, reach your goals, and confidently take your next steps after graduation.

Benefits

  • Register Early for First Pick of Classes
    As an OtterBound student, you can register early before the general dual credit population. This gives you the best chance to build the perfect schedule around your high school and extracurricular commitments!
     
  • Earn Your College Degree in High School
    If you are aiming for an associate degree, OtterBound sets you up to graduate high school with a head start. This can save time and thousands of dollars in future tuition and allows you to enter college or the workforce with confidence and momentum.
     
  • Get Personalized Support & a Clear Roadmap
    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.

Eligibility

Students interested in participating in OtterBound must have: 

  • Completed at least one CWI course.
  • Chosen a major/degree program.
  • A cumulative high school GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Application Period

Sept. 1 – May 1 

To apply for OtterBound: 

  • Meet with your CWI Dual Credit Advisor to talk about your goals and the OtterBound application process.
  • 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.

Student meeting with Advisor in lobby

Program Requirements

To stay in OtterBound, you must: 

  • Meet with your CWI 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. 

  • Attend a Work-Based Learning Center appointment during your senior year of high school to explore career options and next steps. 

  • Complete a graduation review during your senior year to make sure you are ready to finish strong. 

Questions?

headshot role additional
Revision_id: 195171
Photo of Natasha Scott
Advisor, Dual Credit
208.562.3268
natashascott1@cwi.edu
Specialty: Associate Degree (OtterBound) | Last Names A-M
Multipurpose Building
Nampa Campus Multipurpose Building
Revision_id: 195171
Photo of Emily Thomas
Advisor, Dual Credit
208.562.3176
emilythomas@cwi.edu
Specialty: Associate Degree (OtterBound) | Last Names N-Z
Multipurpose Building
Nampa Campus Multipurpose Building