what is dual enrollment college coursework

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

Dual Enrollment: What You Need To Know

Is your profile on track for college admissions?

Our free guidance platform determines your real college chances using your current profile and provides personalized recommendations for how to improve it.

As a college-bound student, it may be worthwhile to try and earn some college credit while you’re still in high school. You can do that by taking AP classes and/or higher-level IB courses, but you have to pass certain exams in order to get college credit from those courses. You could also take some classes at a community college over the summer or even during the school year, but you will probably have to pay to take those classes.

Dual enrollment, on the other hand, is a way for you to gain college credit without any of those other constraints. What are dual enrollment courses? Where do you take them? How does it work? For those answers and more, read on.

What is Dual Enrollment?

Dual Enrollment, also sometimes referred to as Dual Credit, is a program in which a student can earn college credit by taking college-level classes in high school. Though it differs by state, Dual Credit classes will likely be offered via a partnership with your school and a local community college. These courses will be specially marked on all course enrollment forms.

Most of the time, you will be able to take Dual Enrollment courses either at your high school or online. Sometimes, however, you may have to go to the local community college to take the course, in which case you may have to take time outside of school hours to take a dual enrollment course.

Each school will have different dual enrollment courses that they offer, but they’re usually introductory college courses that you will need to take while you’re in college anyway. Many colleges will accept dual enrollment courses as a waiver for the corresponding college introductory course.

What are the Requirements?

In order to enroll in dual enrollment courses, a student has to meet certain standards. Each state has a different set of requirements and guidelines for their dual enrollment students, so you’ll need to check and see what the requirements are for your state. To see the comprehensive breakdown of the dual enrollment requirements by state, click here.

Most states allow 10-12th graders to enroll in dual enrollment courses, and they usually require that the student meet a minimum GPA requirement, usually around 3.0 or higher. Other than that, the course requirements vary.

Where Do You Take Dual Credit Courses?

The simple answer is: it depends. It depends on what your state mandates and what your high school/community college has arranged. Some schools allow dual enrollment courses to be taught at the high school itself. This way, a dual enrollment course could become part of your normal school schedule.

However, some courses require you to commute daily to the local community college, usually before or after normal high school hours. You may also be able to take a dual enrollment course online. Check with your high school counselor to see which of these options is offered by your school.

Why Should You Enroll in Dual Credit Courses?

There are many benefits to enrolling in dual credit courses, including:

• Dual Credit Courses are real college classes, so students get a sense of what real college classwork is like
• Some unique classes may only be available through the dual enrollment program
• Most in-state colleges will likely accept your dual credit courses as college credit, provided that you meet a certain grade standard
• These courses are a way to show colleges that you are capable of handling college-level coursework.
• If there is no tuition involved with taking dual credit courses at your school, these will be by far the cheapest way to gain college credit.
• Unlike AP classes, you don’t have to take a test to gain college credit through dual enrollment classes.

Can You Earn a Degree?

Probably not. There simply aren’t usually enough classes offered in a specific academic field through the dual credit program to allow students to earn even an associate’s degree. There may be other programs available at your local community college that would allow a student to get a degree while in high school, but the dual enrollment program almost never has that option.

However, it is worth noting that while you can’t earn a degree through dual enrollment classes, you can use those classes to help you decide what academic discipline you would like to major in during college. These college-level courses are going to be your best indicator of whether you’d enjoy studying a certain subject in the future, so really try to be introspective while you’re taking these courses and think about whether you could really delve into each particular subject for four years.

Any Downsides?

Overall, the Dual Enrollment Program is a slam dunk logistically and financially. However, in order to make an informed decision, there are a few potential drawbacks that you should be aware of:

• Colleges do not universally accept dual enrollment courses, especially for an out-of-state student.
• Sometimes, dual credit courses require you to travel to a community college early in the morning or late at night. You might be spending a lot of extra time at school beyond normal school hours.
• Dual credit courses are real college classes, which means that they have the rigor and intensity of real college classes as well. It may be too much to handle dual enrollment courses plus your regular high school course load and extracurricular activities.

How To Get Started

If you’re interested in the dual enrollment program, we at CollegeVine recommend that you make an appointment with your guidance counselor as soon as possible to discuss what your options are.

He or she will know what the requirements are, what types of classes are available, and how you would have to take them (i.e.online, at your high school, or at a community college). You can also try to find this information online, but you may not find information specific to your high school. Each school district’s dual enrollment course offerings tend to be a little bit different.

If you’re looking for the cheapest, potentially easiest way to earn college credit in high school, dual enrollment is a great option for you. You’ll get to experience college-level coursework while potentially earning college credit at the same time.

Be careful though: the dual enrollment program is not embraced by colleges as widely as the AP and IB program is. The colleges you may be hoping to apply to may not take give college credit for dual enrollment courses, in which case AP/IB classes would be your best bet. If you’re interested in taking dual enrollment courses, talk to your guidance counselor as soon as possible.

Want to learn more about earning college credit while you’re still in high school? Check out these previous blog posts:

Everything You Need To Know About Pre-AP Classes

Earning College Credit In High School: What You Need To Know

6 Tips For Succeeding In Your First AP/IB Class

How To Earn an IB Diploma

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

What is Dual Enrollment?

Zach Skillings is the Scholarships360 Newsletter Editor. He specializes in college admissions and strives to answer important questions about higher education. When he’s not contributing to Scholarships360, Zach writes about travel, music, film, and culture. His work has been published in Our State Magazine, Ladygunn Magazine, The Nocturnal Times, and The Lexington Dispatch. Zach graduated from Elon University with a degree in Cinema and Television Arts.

Learn about our editorial policies

Caitlyn Cole is a college access professional with a decade of experience in non-profit program and project management for college readiness and access organizations.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

For high school students looking to take more advanced courses or get ahead on college requirements, dual enrollment is an excellent option. College professors teach these courses either on campus or online. 

Dual enrollment programs are a great way for students to save on college tuition costs and become familiar with the rigor of college-level courses. However, dual enrollment may not be right for every student depending on their class schedule and workload. 

Related: Why should I earn college credit in high school?

How dual enrollment works 

Below, we’ll discuss how dual enrollment works along with its benefits and drawbacks. 

Eligibility 

Eligibility for dual enrollment varies by state , but usually candidates must be at least 16 years old, at least a sophomore in high school, and maintain a minimum 2.5 – 3.0 GPA. Candidates might need minimum ACT and SAT scores and meet the entrance requirements set by the college. Additionally, students often have to obtain permission from their parents and guardians to enroll in the class. 

Awarding credit 

To earn college credit, students must pass dual enrollment courses with a C or better. However, it is important to know that not all colleges accept dual enrollment credits. Before taking a dual enrollment class, students should research their options and meet with their high school counselor to ensure a dual enrollment class will be worth their time. 

Course length 

Dual enrollment courses typically last for one semester . This means students can complete their course and earn credit within half the amount of time of a typical school year. 

Dual enrollment programs are financed in different ways, depending on where a student lives. Some states pay for the classes, while in some states the student or parent is primarily responsible for covering the cost of tuition. Because the cost varies depending on location, dual enrollment courses can range from $0 to $400 . 

Benefits of dual enrollment 

Earn college credits.

The most obvious advantage of dual enrollment classes is that they allow students to start accumulating college credits while still enrolled in high school. Students are able to get a head start on college requisites and ensure they graduate on time or even early. 

Also see: How to Graduate College in Three Years: Everything You Need to Know

Cost-effective 

Dual enrollment courses are a great way to earn college credit while saving on tuition costs. As we’ve discussed, dual enrollment courses can cost up to $400, which is significantly less than the cost of an average college course . According to Education Data , the average American college charges in-state students $390 per course credit and out-of-state students $1,126 per course credit. The savings here are tremendous, especially when you consider the fact that dual enrollment courses are sometimes even free!

Related: Why Should I Earn College Credit in High School? 

Academic preparation 

Dual enrollment classes give high school students a taste of college coursework and help prepare them for the rigors of a post-secondary education. The transition from high school to college is often smoother because students are not overwhelmed by the increased workload and new environment. 

Major exploration 

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to sample a variety of academic subjects before going to college and declaring a major. Students may even discover new academic interests that they would like to pursue in college. 

Demonstrate ability 

Dual enrollment classes demonstrate a student’s ability to handle a complex workload, which is helpful when trying to stand out during the college admissions process. College admissions officers often use this information as a predictor of student success. It should be noted, however, that not all colleges value dual enrollment classes equally. In fact, some colleges prefer students who have taken AP or IB courses over students who have taken dual enrollment courses. 

Social Benefits

In addition to the academic and financial benefits of dual enrollment, there can also be social benefits for students who are taking dual enrollment classes on a campus. In these situations, students will have the chance to learn to navigate a college campus, meet new people, and get a taste of what it’s like to be in a college classroom which can be a very different vibe from a high school classroom.  

Also see:  What classes should I take senior year?

Drawbacks of dual enrollment 

Not all colleges accept credit.

There’s no guarantee the college you attend after graduating high school will accept your credits. Many colleges may not consider competing colleges’ courses to be equivalent in content and difficulty. Selective colleges may limit the number of dual enrollment transfer credits they accept or simply deny them entirely. As such, it’s crucial to do your research and meet with your school counselor before taking a dual enrollment course. 

Difficulty Level 

Dual enrollment courses are oftentimes more rigorous than high school classes. They are college-level courses that require more time spent studying and working on assignments. If you’re already struggling with a difficult academic schedule, enrolling in a higher level class may not be the best idea. 

However, it’s important to note that the difficulty level of dual enrollment courses can vary greatly depending on the class, the instructor, and the institution. In fact, some dual enrollment classes, especially those taught at community colleges, are not considered as rigorous as AP or IB courses . If your goal is an academic challenge, consult your school counselor to discuss the specific dual enrollment courses you’re considering. 

Schedule Conflicts

Dual enrollment courses usually meet in the early morning or late evening. This can interfere with students’ schedules and require them to spend more time in class outside of normal school hours. Students may have to sacrifice some of the time they would usually devote to extracurricular activities such as clubs and sports. Additionally, it may be difficult for students to coordinate transportation to and from the college campus for in-person college courses. 

Related: How to Choose the Best Online College

Is dual enrollment right for me?

As you can see, there are a variety of factors to consider when thinking about enrolling in college classes. Many students find that the advantages of earning college credit while still in high school outweigh the potential drawbacks. Other students are simply not ready to add a college level course to their busy schedule. 

It’s important to evaluate the big picture when deciding if dual enrollment fits into your academic goals. If you think dual enrollment might be right for you, consider making an appointment with your school counselor to discuss your options. 

Also see: How many AP classes should I take in high school?

More resources for students

After working out your schedule, you can start preparing for college in other ways! Scholarships360 offers a wealth of resources for every step of the college admissions process. That includes writing college essays , finding the right school , and deciding on a major . Good luck with the process and make sure to check back on our site to help you with any other questions. Be sure to apply for all the scholarships you qualify for while you are eligible! 

button_link=”https://app.scholarships360.org/?utm_source=ScholarshipApp+CTA&utm_medium=On+page&utm_campaign=Scholarship+App+CTA”]

• Vetted scholarships custom-matched to your profile
• Access exclusive scholarships only available to Scholarships360 members

[/s360_widget]

Frequently asked questions about dual enrollment

What’s the difference between dual enrollment and ap, does dual enrollment look good on college applications, do i have to pay for dual enrollment courses, can dual enrollment courses count towards high school requirements, scholarships360 recommended.

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

What Are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

College Info Geek

What Is Dual Enrollment? (My Experience and Tips for Success)

C.I.G. is supported in part by its readers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read more here.

It seems like dual enrollment is becoming a more and more popular choice for high school students, and it’s a good one. Maybe you’ve heard of it or had it suggested to you by your academic counselor, and you’re curious what it’s all about

I was in 9th grade the first time anyone ever talked to me about dual enrollment. It was fairly new in my state back then, and there weren’t a lot of clear rules surrounding it, or even necessarily a set program.

I chose (or rather, at that age, my parents chose) to enroll me in some language classes at our local community college because the language classes at my school, quite frankly, sucked.

In 11th grade, I enrolled in a fully-fledged dual enrollment program and started going to college full-time. For me, it was one of the best decisions I could have made for my education.

Before I go any further, let’s answer the question of “What the heck is dual enrollment, anyway?” After that, I’ll list some pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you. At the very end, I’ve got three big tips for how to succeed, taken from my own experience as a dual enrollment student.

But first, on to the big question:

What is Dual Enrollment?

Put simply, “dual enrollment” is just early college. As the Department of Education puts it , “Students enroll in post-secondary coursework while also enrolled in high school.”

“But wait!” you’re probably wondering. “Does that mean I’m taking both college- and high school-level classes, or am I just going to full-time college instead of high school?”

The short answer? Yes.

The long answer: it’s up to you and your particular college’s dual enrollment program. In mine, I knew some people who were doing both college and high school. I tried doing both during my first year, quickly got overwhelmed, and switched to full-time college instead. It was easier than constantly having to hop schools.

How your grades are calculated widely depends on your state, school, and program. Be aware that some states limit how many credits you can take during a term, and some have a required minimum.

Most states ask that you also have a minimum GPA to qualify for early college, usually a 2.0 or higher . In my home state of Oregon, the state requires that you’re graded against the same standards as other, older students on-campus. We had standard tests we had to take, and you might too. These are all things to research, talk to your admissions office about, and prepare for before you jump into a dual-enrollment program.

Pros and Cons of Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment has a number of advantages; otherwise, there wouldn’t be over 1.4 million students enrolled in various programs across the country. It’s important to weigh the advantages against the drawbacks so you can make an informed decision about whether or not enrolling in a dual enrollment course is right for you.

Here are the main advantages and drawbacks I found during my time as a dual enrollment student, as well as a couple other things you ought to consider before deciding to join a dual enrollment program.

1. Less debt.

This is one of the biggest advantages. Dual enrollment courses usually come at a reduced or zero cost.

When I went, the money that would have been spent to send me to a public school was simply funneled over to the college I went to, so all of my courses were completely free for two years.

I finished my associate’s degree with zero debt , far earlier than I would have otherwise. Which leads to the next point:

2. Finish college earlier.

Most dual enrollment courses begin in the 10th or 11th grade, meaning you’re getting into college at least one whole year earlier than your peers who stay in a traditional school environment. The earlier you finish college, the earlier you can get on with the rest of your life.

3. Rapid academic growth.

College courses are probably more of a challenge than you’re used to. Good professors will push you.

When I enrolled in my first writing course after being told in high school that I was above average, my writing professor politely told me that I could do better. She gave me the first “B” on a paper I’d ever received in my life.

I needed that pressure, and I got it from my professors in every class I took. It pushed me above and beyond the academic growth that I would have seen in any regular high school class.

4. Better access to resources.

For me, this was a big factor in choosing to enroll in college early. Up until then, I had been going to a very small school that had little to offer in the way of resources and extracurriculars. Dual enrollment gave me access to language classes in Russian, Japanese, ASL, French, and many more.

I had access to all sorts of different P.E. classes, dance classes, sciences, anthropology courses, and pretty much everything else you could think of. I wasn’t confined to the regular high-school curriculum, and so I found much more interesting classes and activities to fulfill my credit requirements.

5. You waste less time.

Dual enrollment lets you get all (or at least a majority) of your core classes out of the way before you transfer to a four-year university. This means you waste less time (and money). Once you get to college, you can jump straight into whatever 4-year-degree you want to specialize in.

6. Avoid the SAT and ACT.

Depending on your state and the requirements of your preferred future university, you might be able to avoid taking tests like the SAT or ACT.

Once you have a college transcript, many colleges won’t care about your test scores. They’ll care more about your GPA and transcript you received from your program.

7. You have a better chance of going on to enroll in a four-year program.

Data from the National Center for Education Statistics show that students who enrolled in an early college program were 80% more likely to go on to a four-year university afterward.

They found that only 12% of those students didn’t go on to finish their degrees by the age of 20. So, you’re vastly improving your chances of finishing college by participating in a dual enrollment program.

8. You’re better prepared for your future four-year university.

College is a very different beast compared to high school. If you participate in a dual enrollment program, you avoid some of the culture shock. This is because dual enrollment plunges you straight into rigorous academia, but you still have lots of help in the form of counselors and the dual enrollment program itself.

When I was going, I had three different counselors I could call upon. Most professors were also extremely helpful once they realized how old I was and kept their office doors open for me. That allowed me to learn to navigate college while the risks (and some of the responsibility) associated with mistakes were still fairly low.

9. You have a team of people who WANT you to succeed.

For most dual enrollment programs, their funding is directly proportionate to the GPAs of their students.

This means that your appointment counselors are ready and willing to give you the tools you need to succeed. They’re also very invested in your grades. Use this to your advantage.

1. You’ll have to find a new social circle.

Unless you have a very special group of friends at your high school, you may find that it’s hard to keep up with your peers and spend time with them.

Be prepared to find a new social circle within your dual enrollment courses. This can be really hard to do, and I found personally that my dual enrollment experience was pretty lonely.

2. There’s so much stress.

While you do have counselors and plenty of resources, it’s still on you to succeed. Your professors probably won’t care if you go to class every day, and daily homework is rare.

On top of that, In high school, you have a little bit of grace when it comes to how well you do. In college, everything is dependant on how well you manage your time and how much self-discipline you have.

No one is going to do your homework for you, make you go to class instead of hanging around the common building by the vending machines, and if you fail a test or even a class, it’s up to you to make it up.

It’s your responsibility to get the appropriate amount of study time and go to class when you’re supposed to.

3. It’s not for everyone.

If you are a student who already does a bunch of extra-curricular activities at your high school or are involved in sports, you probably won’t have as much time as you need to succeed in early college.

You can still do dual enrollment, but you’ll have to drop some extracurriculars to give yourself enough time. You have to decide if this is worth it for your situation.

4. Be careful what classes you choose.

Make sure you research your preferred future university well and know what credits they will actually take.

Not all credits will transfer. It’s helpful to sit down with your academic counselor every term so they can help you choose classes that meet your goals.

5. Be careful what professors you choose.

Unlike high school, you actually have a lot of choices for what kind of class you want to take in each subject. Make sure you check RateMyProfessor and ask around before making your final decision, as the quality of the class will entirely depend on what kind of teacher they are.

Try not to settle for a professor you know you won’t learn from or won’t like, and don’t be afraid to choose one who others say is “difficult.” In my experience, those difficult professors often gave me the best education.

6. You’ll have to research your preferred future college…a lot.

Some colleges think it’s awesome that you took the initiative to enroll in early college. Some colleges are less approving.

If you’re looking to have a sports career, those classes from your local community college might even interfere with their ability to accept you. So make sure you do your research beforehand to ensure that you’re setting yourself up for the best possible outcome.

7. You’ll have to get used to a different way of doing things.

The course pacing is completely different in college. Expect to have less daily homework than you might be used to. Most of the work of actually understanding the material your professor gives you in class falls to you. You’ll have to get really comfortable with how to skim textbooks, synthesize information, and take good notes .

Projects happen more often, and they’re weighted more. Expect to have a lot of projects and tests. These are your professor’s way of gauging how well you understand what’s talked about in class. They’re worth a lot of your grade, so you’ll have to be good at writing essays and managing complex tasks and projects without anyone looking over your shoulder and holding your hand.

How to Succeed as a Dual Enrollment Student:

Okay, so you’re fully informed, and you’re ready to jump into this whole dual enrollment thing feet first. But how do you make sure you’re successful?

During my time as a dual enrolled student, I found four main rules to be most helpful. I got these tips from talks with older students who had already been through the program successfully, study skills classes, sessions with my academic counselors, and my own experience.

1. Make the Most of Your Time

Your time is your most precious resource. Use it wisely. Do your best to always go to class . Class time is an opportunity to demonstrate what you do and do not know. You can participate in discussion, ask questions, and learn things from your professor and classmates that the text can’t teach you.

Going to lectures also gives you the opportunity to draw valuable connections between what your professor chooses to teach in class and what your assigned reading says. Those connections are often on the test, and you wouldn’t know about them otherwise.

And while we’re on the subject of going to class, try to avoid extreme times, like those 8 AM math courses and late night literature classes . You might think it’s a great idea.

But you’ll kick yourself later in the term when your head feels as heavy as an anvil on a slinky and you’re desperately pouring your Rockstar into your latte and guzzling it down.

Seriously, don’t do it. Keep your class times to reasonable blocks unless you absolutely have to do differently.

As you’re scheduling your classes, make an effort to schedule them in blocks , especially if you’re also still taking classes back at your old high school. Once you go home, you won’t want to go back out again.

2. Use the Resources Available to You

As soon as you possibly can, educate yourself on what resources your college offers students. Ask your counselor, they probably have a good idea.

There’s usually a location on campus where you can find tutors in several different subjects, and your professors have office hours they wish more students would take advantage of.

Most of all, if you’re unsure of something, then just ask.

3. Study Intelligently, and Don’t Overwork Yourself

Of course, you can manage your time as effectively as you like, but if you don’t study intelligently , then all the time management in the world won’t help your grades .

When you’re in class, take good notes and make friends who you can study with. You can help keep each other accountable to go to class. In my personal experience, when I’m struggling with a subject, I find it much easier to learn and push through when there’s someone else who’s doing it with me. Try it, see if it works for you.

If you can help it, try not to work a hectic part-time job on top of everything else unless it’s a warm body job. Warm body jobs are things like low-level office work, helping out at the school library…jobs that allow you to work on your homework in your downtime.

Don’t do what I did and work a hectic on-your-feet irregular sort of job. I quickly found that it was too much for me to handle. I could never find enough time to get adequate sleep and finish my homework on time, and my health suffered…which brings me to the next point…

4. Always Have a Sanity Anchor

Now, this next tip is one that really stuck with me. It comes from a friend of mine who went through the program before I did, and it was her self-cited #1 key to success: always have a “sanity class”.

Sure, you might feel like you want to load up on all the credits you can and get the hard stuff out of the way first, but it’s wiser to have one class that’s either something easy, or something you definitely enjoy.

Whether that’s a chill Pilates or dance class, or, if you’re like me, an interesting niche literature or humanities course, is up to you. Don’t feel bad about having one lower-credit course every term. You’ll find your grades will improve if you don’t overwork yourself.

Make Dual Enrollment Work for You

Dual enrollment isn’t for everyone, but if you feel as if you can handle it, then go for it. Just make sure you do your research, you’re well-informed, and that you aren’t in danger of burnout .

For me, dual enrollment was the best option out there. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if I hadn’t chosen that path. Sure, it was really difficult, and I made some mistakes, but it launched me way ahead of my peers. I don’t regret it for a second.

Image Credits: featured

How to Earn College Credit Through Dual Enrollment

Earning college credit through dual enrollment can prepare high school students for college-level work and reduce costs.

Earn College Credit Via Dual Enrollment

Getty Images

The most common method for dual enrollment is students learning within their high school from a teacher on staff who is qualified to teach college-level courses.

When high school students hear the term dual enrollment, the meaning can be ambiguous. Dual enrollment opportunities can vary widely in terms of how such programs are administered, what credits are earned and the intended result for students.

College Admissions Mistakes to Avoid

Caroline Duda Sept. 16, 2019

So what does dual enrollment mean, exactly?

"There are so many terms out there that it is easy to get confused," Amy Williams, executive director of the educational nonprofit National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, wrote in an email. She lists several terms used in addition to dual enrollment, including concurrent enrollment, dual credit, running start and early college.

Defining Dual Enrollment

"Dual enrollment is a catch all term to describe programs that allow high school students early access to college courses," Williams says. "As such, they are partnerships between a high school or school district and accredited institutions of higher education to provide high school students the opportunity to earn transcripted college credits before they graduate high school."

Matt Reed, vice president for academic affairs at Brookdale Community College in New Jersey, notes that dual enrollment can mean different things "but the most common meaning is that one course counts in two places," he says. "So a student who takes a dual enrollment history class gets credit both for high school history and for college history."

How Dual Enrollment Works

Since partnerships can vary by high school, what's offered in one district may differ from another. Some dual enrollment programs are taught in high school with teachers providing instruction for college-level courses. Other programs send high school students to a college campus. Sometimes college professors teach within high schools. Additionally, there are options for online instruction.

"Different districts have different needs," Reed says. "Some, for example, have a lot of faculty who have master's degrees in the disciplines they're teaching, which means that they are qualified to be adjuncts for us. Some of them don't, so we have to find other ways to make that work."

Reed also notes that "some want a STEM focus," referring to the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, while "others want a business focus, (and) some want a liberal arts grounding."

The most common method for dual enrollment is students learning within their high school from a teacher on staff who is qualified to teach college-level courses, says Elisabeth Barnett, a senior research scholar at the Community College Research Center, which is housed in the Teachers College at Columbia University in New York.

Barnett points to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, which indicates that the vast majority of dual enrollment students take classes at their high school compared with fewer than 1 in 5 who do so on college campuses. A small percentage of dual enrollment students take college courses at other high schools or online.

The number of credits a student can earn through dual enrollment is also program-dependent. Depending on what is offered in partnership with their high school, students may earn only a handful of college credits in some programs, up to 30 credits in others and as many as 60 credits in programs aimed at helping students acquire an associate degree as part of the dual enrollment experience.

Paying for Dual Enrollment

The opportunity to earn an associate degree in high school can be both personally and economically rewarding. Earning such a credential proves that the student is ready for college-level work and can help ease the pain of paying for college by transferring credits to a four-year school, which can possibly halve the cost of a bachelor's degree if 60 credits are accepted.

But like almost everything else with dual enrollment, how to pay for college credits racked up in high school varies.

"There's a fair amount of variation, and some of it depends on state policies. In some states (dual enrollment) is either actively encouraged and or paid for by the state," Barnett explains. "When students don't have to pay anything for dual enrollment, it's more popular, and when schools don't lose money by sending their students to the college, it's more popular."

Given how dual enrollment price tags may differ, experts advise students to seek out their high school counselor to get a sense of program costs. Barnett also notes that there may be additional costs for transportation to the college or for required books. To keep program costs down, high schools most commonly partner with community colleges to offer affordable options, Barnett says.

Williams adds that scholarships may also be available to cover tuition or other expenses, such as transportation and books.

How to Participate in Dual Enrollment Programs

How students are selected to take part in dual enrollment programs also varies by high school. Academic requirements are assessed by the high school, not the college, experts say, and the length of the program will likely determine the age at which a student can enroll.

The starting point, experts emphasize, is the high school counselor , who can explain program costs and eligibility and answer questions. Counselors can also explain the type of programs available and the number of credits students can possibly earn.

"Students who see the appeal would be well advised to reach out to the guidance department as early as they can, whether that's in eighth grade or ninth grade," Reed says.

"Depending on the model they might get told to come back in two years, but that's OK," he says. "The 30-credit models typically start in the 11th grade. Dual enrollment is so variable, that there's not really one thing that you would point to and say, 'everybody does that.' For example, dual enrollment doesn't have to, by definition, result in a degree."

It's typically up to the high school to determine eligibility requirements to participate in dual enrollment programs.

"These vary by state and can vary by district/high school," Williams says. "Some states have state-set requirements for standardized tests scores, high school GPA , or other elements. Others require students to be at a specific grade level or age, to have completed a particular series of high school classes, or have a teacher's recommendation."

She adds that students can compare state eligibility requirements on the Education Commission of the States website.

Weigh Dual Enrollment Against Other Credit Options

Students can earn college credit a number of ways beyond dual enrollment, such as by taking Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams or participating in the College-Level Examination Program . But colleges don't always accept all credit options.

Students who want to make sure their college credits are counted toward a four-year degree should research articulation agreements , experts say. Reed notes that some states have legally binding transfer agreements that require four-year colleges to honor credits earned via dual enrollment.

Generally, colleges are more likely to give credit for general education rather than specialized courses. Graduating from a dual enrollment program will also increase the likelihood of those credits being accepted, Reed adds.

What Dual Enrollment Means for College Admissions

In addition to possibly compressing time in college, participating in dual enrollment may also offer an admissions boost.

"In some cases, college admissions seems to favor students with AP credits. But on the other hand, lots of students take AP courses and don't pass the AP exams," Barnett says. "With dual enrollment, if you pass the college course, you've got transcripted college credit."

Experts also suggest that completing college courses shows that students are ready to make the leap from high school to the next level: postsecondary coursework.

"Nothing proves the ability to handle college-level work better than handling college-level work," Reed says.

Searching for a college? Get our complete rankings of Best Colleges.

Study Tips for High School Students

Tags: colleges , students , high school , community colleges , college admissions , paying for college , paying for community college , education

2024 Best Colleges

Search for your perfect fit with the U.S. News rankings of colleges and universities.

College Admissions: Get a Step Ahead!

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S. News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Ask an Alum: Making the Most Out of College

You May Also Like

Photos: pro-palestinian student protests.

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton and Avi Gupta April 26, 2024

How to Win a Fulbright Scholarship

Cole Claybourn and Ilana Kowarski April 26, 2024

Honors Colleges and Programs

Sarah Wood April 26, 2024

Find a Job in the Age of AI

Angie Kamath April 25, 2024

Protests Boil Over on College Campuses

Lauren Camera April 22, 2024

Supporting Low-Income College Applicants

Shavar Jeffries April 16, 2024

Supporting Black Women in Higher Ed

Zainab Okolo April 15, 2024

Law Schools With the Highest LSATs

Ilana Kowarski and Cole Claybourn April 11, 2024

Today NAIA, Tomorrow Title IX?

Lauren Camera April 9, 2024

Grad School Housing Options

Anayat Durrani April 9, 2024

Policy Fact Sheet | April 2024

Understanding Dual Enrollment

Download fact sheet

Dual enrollment (DE), in which high school students take college courses, has great potential to help make the high-school-to-college transition more effective and equitable—and to do so on a large scale. DE is distinguished from other approaches to earning college credit in high school, such as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate, because it requires a partnership between a high school and a postsecondary institution that awards the college credit. DE encompasses a wide range of program designs, from immersive early college high schools (ECHSs) to much more common à la carte models in which students take one or more college courses taught either by a faculty member or by a qualified high school teacher, either online or in person at the college or the high school.

Representation in Dual Enrollment

• Community College FAQs
• Pandemic Recovery

Community College Research Center , Teachers College , Columbia University Box 174 | 525 West 120th Street, New York, NY 10027

   212.678.3091       [email protected]

2024. All rights reserved.

Join our mailing list

• Focus Areas
• Publications Library
• Presentations
• Guided Pathways Workshops
• Policy Resources
• Research Affiliates
• Advisory Board
• Biennial Report

This website uses cookies as well as similar tools and technologies to understand visitors’ experiences. By continuing to use this website, you consent to Teachers College, Columbia University’s usage of cookies and similar technologies, in accordance with the Teachers College, Columbia University Website Cookie Notice .

What is Dual Enrollment and How Does it Work?

Want to get a head start on your college education? Dual enrollment is a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses and earn credits toward both their high school diploma and a postsecondary degree at the same time. It doesn’t matter if you go to private school or public school – dual enrollment is available to almost all U.S. high school students.  

If you want to graduate college as soon as possible, save money on tuition, and better prepare yourself for university curriculum, dual enrollment could be for you. Here’s how it works. 

How does dual enrollment work?

Dual enrollment is typically offered in collaboration between high schools and colleges. Participating high schools usually partner with a local college, university, or community college to provide dual credit courses for their students. Dual credit courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits for the same course. 

To take part in the dual enrollment program, you have to meet certain eligibility requirements, which, among others, typically include maintaining a specific grade point average (GPA). In some cases, you may also need to take a placement test to ensure you are ready for college-level coursework. 

Once accepted into the dual enrollment program, you can enroll in college courses and attend them either on the college’s campus or online. To make the process even more convenient, some dual enrollment programs offer their courses on high school campuses. 

Typically, you’ll receive a syllabus and course materials just like any other college student. If you successfully complete the course, you’ll earn both high school and college credits. These college-level courses can then be transferred to a four-year college or university and count towards a college degree.

The pros and cons of dual enrollment 

Dual enrollment programs offer several advantages for high school students, but they also come with some drawbacks. Here are some of the most common: 

• Saves time and money : Dual enrollment allows you to earn college credit early, save money on tuition, avoid student loans , and reduce other expenses associated with pursuing a degree.
• Prepares you for college coursework : By taking college-level courses while still in high school, you can become better prepared for the demands of higher education.
• Enhances college applications : If you’re a sophomore or junior who’s starting to think about college applications , dual enrollment shows initiative and motivation to college admissions officers, which can boost your chances of being accepted into competitive institutions.
• Expands academic options : Dual enrollment programs usually offer a wider variety of courses than what’s available at the high school level, allowing you to explore different academic interests. These specialized classes could be a crucial part of helping you decide which major you’ll pursue in the future.
• Offers college experience : Participating in dual enrollment can expose you to the college environment, which can better prepare you for the transition from high school to college.
• Not everyone qualifies : Dual enrollment programs have specific requirements, such as prerequisite courses, minimum GPA, and standardized test scores, that you’ll have to meet to participate. Not all students will qualify.
• Can be challenging to schedule: Juggling high school coursework with college-level classes is no easy task. And that’s just academics. Outside of school, you might find it challenging to balance dual enrollment courses with extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, or other regular commitments.
• Transferability varies : While dual enrollment credits are generally transferable to colleges and universities, the acceptance of credits may vary depending on the institution and the specific course. Make sure you consult with individual colleges to determine the transferability of credits earned through dual enrollment.
• Requires sacrifice : Because dual enrollment can be challenging and time-consuming, it may result in you missing out on traditional high school experiences, like participating in sports, electives, clubs, or social events. You’ll have to determine if the benefits outweigh missing out on some of the formative experiences that high school can offer.  

Get matched to scholarships

See how much money you qualify for. Personalized matches . Click below to get started.

Match me to scholarships

How do you sign up for a dual enrollment program? 

The specific process of enrolling may vary depending on your state, school district, and educational institution. However, there are common steps you can take to initiate the enrollment process:

• Research dual enrollment options : Start by researching the dual enrollment programs available in your area, or at colleges and universities you’re interested in attending. Your school might have partnerships with specific schools, so check with your high school guidance counselor first. Then, visit college websites or explore state-specific resources to gather information about eligibility requirements, available courses, and application steps.
• Review eligibility requirements : Each dual enrollment program has its own set of eligibility criteria. Typically, requirements include meeting a minimum GPA, getting a counselor’s approval, and sometimes achieving a certain score on standardized tests like the ACT or SAT. Some more advanced dual enrollment classes might require a prerequisite course. Check out the program’s guidelines for specific eligibility criteria.
• Get necessary permissions: Dual enrollment programs often require written consent from parents or guardians. Make sure to involve them in the decision-making process, and get their permission if necessary.
• Complete the application process: Once you’ve found a dual enrollment program you want to enroll in, follow the application instructions provided by the program or educational institution. This may involve filling out an application form, submitting your high school transcript, getting letters of recommendation, and maybe even taking placement tests.

It’s important to note that the enrollment process for dual enrollment programs may vary depending on your location and the policies of the specific college or university offering the program. That’s why you should always consult the official websites or reach out to the admissions offices of the institution you want to attend. That way, you’re guaranteed accurate and up-to-date information on the enrollment process.

Even better –– take advantage of your high school counselors. A counselor can provide support throughout the entire dual enrollment process. They can help you understand the application requirements, navigate the logistics of scheduling dual enrollment courses, and answer any questions you may have. 

Alternatives to dual enrollment

Not sure that dual enrollment is for you? Here are some common alternatives. 

• Advanced Placement (AP) courses : AP courses are offered in many high schools and allow students to earn college credit by passing an AP exam at the end of the semester. They offer a challenging curriculum that’s similar to college-level coursework and can demonstrate a student’s ability to handle higher-level classes.
• Concurrent Enrollment : Concurrent enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses and earn credit for them. Unlike dual enrollment, these programs are typically taught by a high school teacher so they don’t require students to take courses on a college campus.
• Online courses: Many colleges and universities offer online courses that high school students can take for credit. These courses provide flexibility in terms of scheduling and location, allowing students to explore subjects not available at their high schools.
• College-level exams: Some colleges and universities grant credit based on scores on certain proficiency exams like the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) or the DANTES Subject Standardized Tests (DSST) . These exams assess knowledge in specific subjects and can be an alternative way to earn college credit. 

Do colleges prefer dual enrollment or AP courses? 

There’s no clear preference for colleges between dual enrollment or AP courses. Unlike dual enrollment, AP courses might only count for high school credit. It’s up to your college’s discretion whether or not they’ll award credit, usually based on your AP test performance. If you get a good grade in the class, but a lower score on the test , you may not receive college credit. 

One of the benefits of dual enrollment is that the course tracks a student’s performance over time versus their performance on a single day. So, if you’re a student who doesn’t usually do well with standardized testing, a dual enrollment course might be better for you. 

But if you’re looking to attend a highly competitive school, taking multiple AP classes (and performing well on the tests) might give you an edge in the college admissions process. At many high schools, AP courses are weighted more heavily than regular courses and can boost your GPA. Because AP coursework is standardized by the College Board , it also tends to be more rigorous, which also looks good to an admissions committee. 

If your high school offers dual enrollment and AP classes, you might explore both. Knock out some general education requirements, like English 101, with an AP class, then try something more tailored to your future major with a dual enrollment class.

Does dual enrollment affect your GPA? 

It depends. At some high schools, the grades you receive in a dual enrollment course will be factored into your high school GPA. Typically, the decision of whether or not to factor these grades into a student’s GPA is at the discretion of the high school. But this policy varies by school, so double-check with your guidance counselor before enrolling in a dual enrollment class.

How much does dual enrollment cost? 

Because dual enrollment isn’t something standardized by the Department of Education, the price of a dual enrollment class can vary a lot between public schools, private schools, and areas. 

In some states, like California for example , there are tuition-free dual enrollment programs funded by grants from the state government. If your area doesn’t offer free dual enrollment classes, you might find opportunities for free textbooks or waived enrollment fees for high school students. 

Research the programs offered by your school and their partner colleges to find your exact cost. Some sources say a dual enrollment course costs an average of $400 per class, compared with $2,336 per class for a typical college course. In many states, Missouri for example , there are scholarship programs available to help high school students cover the costs of dual enrollment. And, of course, you can find more external scholarships on Going Merry. 

Pay less for college with Going Merry

Dual enrollment programs can be a smart way for students to complete high school classes and college-level courses at the same time. While the coursework may be more challenging, earning college credit while you’re still in high school can give you a leg up to complete your degree, save money, and kickstart your future. 

Another great way to save money on college? Signing up for Going Merry. From quality scholarships curated and vetted by specialists, to tools to unlock the maximum financial aid possible, Going Merry has something for every type of student. Sign up for Going Merry and get access to valuable resources, helpful tools, and high-dollar scholarships hand-picked for you. 

• Recent Posts

• How to Create the Ideal Student LinkedIn Profile - November 9, 2023
• How to Create a Student Resume That Wows Hiring Managers - November 7, 2023
• What is Dual Enrollment and How Does it Work? - November 7, 2023

Ready to find scholarships that are a match for you?

Dual enrollment

Dual enrollment programs have expanded rapidly, allowing high school students to take college courses on their high school campuses and jump-start their college careers. The following guidance is relevant for both California high school and community college counselors advising dual enrollment students.

Understanding dual enrollment

Dual enrollment programs are not new, but they continue to generate many questions about how dual enrollment coursework is reported on the UC admission application and how it is used to meet freshman admission requirements. Please keep these points in mind:

• College courses are college courses, even if they are taught on the high school campus by an approved high school faculty member. 
• Students must report dual enrollment college courses under the appropriate college name on the UC application for undergraduate admission. Dual enrollment courses cannot be reported on the application as high school coursework. 
• California high schools cannot add California community college courses to their UC approved A-G course lists, even though instruction may happen on the high school campus with a high school instructor. 
• UC-transferable college courses that fall within the A-G subject areas, including those completed through dual enrollment, will earn an extra point in the UC freshman admission GPA calculation - within our maximum honors points limitations - if completed with a letter grade of C or better. Refer to the Quick Reference Guide to UC Admissions for more information about honors points and the GPA calculation.

Note: one college course earns one grade and one honors point in the GPA calculation, even though the single course may meet one year or more of a high school subject requirement. 

• Students who are offered admission to UC are required to submit an official college transcript for all college courses completed, including courses completed through a dual enrollment program. This is in addition to the final official high school transcript. 
• The high school, not UC, decides what to include on the high school transcript. However, even if dual enrollment courses are reported on the high school transcript, students are still required to submit an official college transcript for their college coursework. 
• If the high school chooses to report dual enrollment courses on the high school transcript, clearly indicating which courses are college level is helpful to UC.

• Trying to Conceive
• Signs & Symptoms
• Pregnancy Tests
• Fertility Testing
• Fertility Treatment
• Weeks & Trimesters
• Staying Healthy
• Preparing for Baby
• Complications & Concerns
• Pregnancy Loss
• Breastfeeding
• School-Aged Kids
• Raising Kids
• Personal Stories
• Everyday Wellness
• Safety & First Aid
• Immunizations
• Food & Nutrition
• Active Play
• Pregnancy Products
• Nursery & Sleep Products
• Nursing & Feeding Products
• Clothing & Accessories
• Toys & Gifts
• Ovulation Calculator
• Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
• How to Talk About Postpartum Depression
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board

Pros and Cons of Dual Enrollment in High School

The difference, the pros and cons, how to decide.

Growing numbers of high school students across the United States are enrolling in college courses through dual enrollment and concurrent enrollment programs provided by their school districts. Not only are they getting a taste of college coursework while in high school, but they also are earning college credits while simultaneously finishing their high school degrees. In fact, it is not uncommon for high school students to graduate with 20 or 30 college credits.

For many students, these programs have enormous payoffs, including reducing overall college costs, higher GPAs during their first year of college , early graduation from college, and early acceptance into masters degree programs. But, there are some downsides too, like less exposure to the core curriculum and the potential that a high school junior isn't ready yet for the college environment.

Plus, many parents question whether or not dual enrollment or more traditional AP courses are the best paths for their students.

There are several ways in which high school students can prepare for college . For instance, there are AP courses, dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, and in some schools, IB courses. Knowing what is best for your student begins with knowing what exactly these courses are, how they are measured, and what they provide.

Advanced Placement (AP)

AP courses are run by the College Board, the same organization that designs and administers the SAT and SAT Subject Tests. Since it is a United States-based program, most colleges and universities within the country recognize AP courses for their rigorous and college-level curriculum.

These courses typically require more work, independent learning, and higher-level thinking than standard high school courses. Plus, there is a test at the completion of the year-long course where students can demonstrate their mastery of a particular subject.

Although scoring a 3 is considered passing for an AP course, some colleges only give credit for the course if the student scores a 4 or a 5, with 5 being the highest possible score a student can receive.

In fact, some schools only accept the score of a 5 for college credit, while some of the elite schools do not accept any AP courses for credit. Still, college admission officers of these schools expect to see these types of courses on a student's transcript.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Less common in high schools in the United States than AP courses, the IB diploma program is an international program for youths ages 16 to 19. It is designed to create intercultural understanding and respect and focuses heavily on the integration of disciplines. When students enroll in an IB program, they are completing coursework over a two-year period and receive an IB diploma at the end of the program.

Students in the program also fine-tune their research skills and participate in community outreach. If students opt for the IB program, most college admissions officials suggest that they complete the full program in order to receive the diploma at the end.

Dual Credit/Concurrent Credit

Most dual credit and concurrent credit courses are offered through a student's high school where they actually earn college credit upon successful completion of the course. With many dual credit courses, students enroll in a local community college and take the courses online or at the college. Meanwhile, concurrent credit courses are often taken at the high school by an accredited teacher.

Typically, college credits for dual and concurrent credit courses are awarded by community colleges like Columbus State or Central Ohio Technical College in Ohio, or Houston Community College or Lone Star College in Texas, and so on, depending on the state and the area.

The credit from these courses then ideally can be transferred to other colleges and universities.

Parents often like dual credit programs because students can earn college credit before graduating high school.

In the end, this can save the student and their family time and money.

When determining whether or not your student should consider dual enrollment, it is best to weigh the pros and the cons. Most admissions counselors indicate that if you plan strategically, taking either AP, IB, or dual enrollment courses can benefit the student tremendously.

The key is determining what is recommended by the colleges and universities that your child is interested in. Here is an overview of some other points to consider before making a decision about dual enrollment.

Advantages of Dual Enrollment

Cost-Effective

One of the biggest advantages to dual enrollment is the fact that it helps close the college affordability gap. There are many public school districts across the country that are not only offering dual enrollment, but they also are covering the cost of those classes, including fees and books. As a result, college becomes much more affordable for a number of students. It also helps reduce the amount of debt a student could potentially need to take on in order to pay for college down the road.

Credits Transfer to State Schools

In most states, the credits high school students earn while taking dual credit and concurrent credit courses are completely transferable to the state's public universities. Additionally, some private colleges within the state also will accept the credit. However, it is always important to confirm this ahead of time.

Builds Confidence

One of the benefits of dual enrollment is that students enrolled in the courses begin to view themselves as college-capable. In other words, they recognize that they have the ability to do well in a college-level course, and it builds their confidence for future college courses.

Makes College Attainable

For many low-income, first-generation, and minority students, dual enrollment can make college more attainable for them. Not only is the program offered through their high school improving their ease of access, but it also is often fully funded by their district. For some marginalized students, dual enrollment helps make college attendance possible.

Allows Exploration

Since students are taking college courses during high school, they are able to determine whether or not they like a particular area of study without a lot of risk and cost.

As a result, a student may discover that they no longer want to pursue nursing but would rather pursue education instead.

Dual enrollment allows a student the opportunity to try things before they enroll full-time in a university.

Graduate Early or With a Double Major

Since students begin accumulating their college credit in high school, they often enter college with a lot of the required courses completed. Consequently, this leaves more time for electives and double majors. It also helps students graduate early if they enter college as a sophomore instead of as a freshman.

More Likely to Continue Education

Students who enrolled in community college classes were more likely to continue their college education compared with those who do not participate in dual enrollment. In fact, according to a Columbia University study, 88% of dual enrollment students continued on to college after high school.

Consequently, researchers concluded that getting even a small head start in high school can have a significant impact on future educational choices.

Disadvantages of Dual Enrollment

Credits May Not Transfer

Although dual credit courses taken at a local community college will almost always transfer to a state school within the same state, the same may not be true for private colleges. It is always best to check first. Additionally, if your student wants to apply to schools out of state and you opt for dual enrollment, you need to realize that many of those hard-earned credits may not transfer.

Many, if not all of the credits earned at a community college will not transfer to an Ivy League school as well as a number of other elite schools. As a result, if your student is headed down that path, you may want to opt for AP courses instead.

Difficult to Determine the Rigor

Many officials regard AP courses as a mark of a school's rigor and use these courses as a guide to determine a school's quality. AP courses can be judged by a more consistent standard through the national exam, whereas it can be difficult to determine the quality of a dual credit course. For many colleges, especially the more selective ones, AP courses are still the preferred courses.

Courses Become Part of the Transcript

If your student feels like they will not succeed in or does not wish to take a particular dual credit course, by all means, there's no reason to force him/her them to take it. Every grade the student earns becomes part of their official transcript. As a result, doing poorly in a particular subject could hinder a student's chances of being accepted to their target universities.

May Miss Out on Internships and Study Abroad Opportunities

Many colleges and universities have their internship programs structured for a junior year with application deadlines occurring during sophomore year. If a high school student enters college as a junior, they may miss out on these opportunities due to missed deadlines.

Provide Student With Less Repetition

Although students are gaining college credit for certain courses, they may be missing some important course repetition, some critics argue. In other words, when a student takes a dual credit composition class in order to meet a high school English requirement, that is one less English class the student takes in the end. To some parents and educators, this is a big deal that can have a significant impact.

Limited Choices

Sometimes the options offered through dual enrollment are limited. As a result, the student has to take what is offered. Even though they earn college credit for the course, they may be missing out on the richness of course offerings that would have been offered at the freshman level at the institution of their choice.

Declare a Major at a Young Age

For students graduating with two years' worth of college credit, they are entering college as an 18-year-old junior among 21-year-olds. The lack of maturity and experience can put them at a disadvantage in their courses, especially if they are already immature for their age. They also are forced to select a major without much time spent growing up.

Miss out on the Process of College

Attending college is about more than just getting a degree. It also is a time when students come to know who they are and what their passions are. Rushing this process can result in them missing out on a number of social and emotional developmental milestones that occur during four years in college. As a result, they enter the workforce at a younger age and with less experience.

May Impact Athletic Eligibility

If your student is an athlete, you need to be sure that the dual enrollment courses do not impact athletic eligibility at the high school. Additionally, if your student-athlete is being recruited by a college, taking college-level courses may impact college eligibility as well. It is always best to research these areas in your particular state before committing to an education plan.

When deciding whether or not dual or concurrent enrollment is the right option for your child, you need to consider a host of factors.

First, ask your student what they hope to major in as well as where they would most like to attend college.

Keep in mind that every institution has its own set of guidelines as far as what will be accepted as credit and what will not be accepted. For instance, some elite universities do not award college credit for AP exams; some will not accept credit for dual enrollment courses.

Meanwhile, a number of admissions officers admit that they still like to see AP courses on an applicant's transcript. They view the courses as a sign that the student can handle challenging coursework, even if they do not award credit for the exam. As a result, the best thing to do is to make a list of your child's target schools and determine what their requirements are as well as what they accept credit for. This will help you determine what the best option might be.

So, if your student has their heart set on attending an Ivy League school, it might be better for them to take AP courses with a few dual credit courses here and there. But, if your student plans to attend a state school and major in business or computer science, it might be better to opt for mostly dual or concurrent credit courses with just a few AP courses here and there. The key is to do your research, ask questions, and formulate a plan as early as possible.

Another option is for you and your student to meet with an advisor or professor at their preferred college to determine which avenue is most recommended. The professor can provide insight into what types of courses the student will be taking once they are enrolled so that they can make wise selections while in high school that will complement the college's coursework.

A Word From Verywell

The decision on whether or not to choose dual enrollment or AP courses, or simply stick with the basic high school curriculum, is an extremely personal one. Remember, no two students are exactly the same. As a result, what works for one student will not work for another. For this reason, it is best to meet regularly with your school's counselors and the administrators facilitating the program so that you and your student can make a decision that is not only informed but also one your student is comfortable with.

Remember, just because you have a desire for them to graduate high school with a high school diploma and an associate degree does not mean that they will be on board with it. So, be sure you make a decision that everyone can agree to. You will all be much happier, and your student will be more successful in the end.

Community College Research Center. What Happens to Students Who Take Community College "Dual Enrollment" Courses in High School? .

Barnett E, Maclutsky E, Wagonlander C. Emerging early college models for traditionally underserved students. In: New Directions for Community Colleges . Wiley Periodicals, Inc.; 2015. doi:10.1002/cc.20131

College Board. AP Credit Policy Search .

International Baccalaureate. Diploma Programme .

National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships. What is concurrent enrollment .

The Brookings Institution. States be aware: Cost savings for dual enrollment elude state ledgers .

Community College Research Center. The Dual Enrollment Playbook: A Guide to Equitable Acceleration for Students .

National Council of Teachers of English. Dual enrollment: promises and problems .

NCAA. Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete .

By Sherri Gordon Sherri Gordon, CLC is a published author, certified professional life coach, and bullying prevention expert. 

• FREE RESOURCES
• REQUEST MORE INFO

• Call 1-87STUDYPOINT
• STUDENT LOGIN
• ACT Tutoring
• SAT Tutoring
• Math Tutoring

Academic Tutoring

Admissions support.

• Free Resources

• PSAT Tutoring
• SSAT Tutoring
• ISEE Tutoring
• AP Tutoring
• Elementary Math
• 6th Grade Math
• 7th Grade Math
• 8th Grade Math
• Pre-Algebra
• Algebra Tutoring
• Geometry Tutoring
• Algebra 2 Tutoring
• Precalculus Tutoring
• Trigonometry Tutoring
• Calculus Tutoring
• Homework Help
• Biology Tutoring
• Chemistry Tutoring
• Physics Tutoring
• Spanish Tutoring
• French Tutoring
• Writing (Academic)
• Writing (Creative)
• Study Skills Support
• Reading Tutoring
• College Essay Coaching
• College Counseling
• Private School Admissions Counseling
• Boarding School Admissions Counseling

Dual Enrollment Programs: The Pros and Cons

As juniors across the country begin planning for next year's courses, many are considering a dual-enrollment or concurrent enrollment class. Dual-enrollment classes enable high school students to take classes at a local college-and potentially earn college credit.

There are a number of benefits to dual-enrollment programs. Earning college credit while still in high school sounds like a dream for many students. In addition, these programs introduce students to the rigors of college coursework early, and studies have shown that students who participate in dual-enrollment programs are more likely go on to get a college degree. But is dual enrollment right for your child?

Why Should My Child Consider a Dual-Enrollment Program?

• Dual enrollment gives students an idea of what full-time college coursework will be like. By trying out a few classes while still in high school, your child can get used to the academic environment before he or she leaves the comfort and support of home.
• Your child may be able to take classes that aren't offered at his or her high school.
• College courses can give your student a closer look at his or her area of academic interest. If your child is currently loving AP history, a college course next year on the Civil War or the Great Depression will help him or her explore that period in greater depth and precision.
• Taking a college class as a high school senior can help your child find his or her area of interest before the pressure is on to declare a major. One study by the US Department of Education found that 30% of undergraduates change their major at least once.
• If your student didn't qualify to take AP courses, or if those courses weren't available at your child's high school, taking a college-level class will help him or her demonstrate the ability to handle more difficult coursework. This ability is something every college admissions officer wants to see.
• Due to the large number of online and virtual classes offered by many schools, dual-enrollment courses may be conducted right at your child's high school. Ask your student's school counselor about dual-enrollment options in your area.
• Perhaps the biggest benefit of dual enrollment is that your student may start accumulating college credits, helping him or her graduate on time or even early.

Dual Enrollment Sounds Great! Is There Any Reason My Child Shouldn't Participate?

• If a course is already available at your child's school, it might be best to take it there. Colleges may wonder why a student has chosen to take an intro class at a community college if there's an AP class in the same subject available at the high school level. High school AP classes may well prove more challenging than an intro-level college course. If the college course won't give your student something above and beyond what's available at his or her high school, take a pass.
• If a college class will interfere with your child's regular coursework or extracurriculars, it may not be a good idea. A college course should enhance a student's resume, but not at the expense of other resume-enhancing activities. When considering scheduling, be sure to take into account not just the normal class schedule, but breaks as well. Your local high school and community college may not operate on the same academic calendar. A different holiday schedule could cause conflicts with class trips, family vacations, or out-of-town athletic commitments.
• A college course in music appreciation is a great resume booster-as long as your child plans to go into music. If he or she is planning a career in chemistry, the music class won't help, and could raise questions about the academic rigor of your child's senior year courses. Carefully consider the academic value of any class your child is considering.
• Dual-enrollment courses are real college courses for real college credit; the grades will go on your student's permanent record. Before enrolling, make sure your student is ready for the demanding work a college class will require, or it could hurt his or her chances at college acceptance down the line. 
• If your child is considering a dual-enrollment program for the purpose of earning college credits, be sure of the value of the credits. For each college where your child may apply next year, check to see how many credits (if any) a dual-enrollment class would earn your child. The credit policy will depend on the school.

Where Should We Start?

• Rules for dual-enrollment eligibility vary from state to state, so students should check with their high school counselors to find out if they qualify. Usually, students must be a high school junior or senior and have a GPA that meets the state's minimum requirement. In some states, students may be required to take placement tests. Students will also need permission from parents/guardians and a school counselor or principal.
• Your child's school counselor will also be able to provide information about financial obligations. Many states pay for dual enrollment; in other states, families must pay.

As always, if you have any questions about your child's academic future, StudyPoint is here to help! Visit our Tutoring Resource Center to read more expert college admissions advice, or contact a member of our Enrollment Team at 1-87STUDYPOINT (1-877-883-9764).  

Share This Information:

StudyPoint is a national leader in one-to-one, in-home test prep and academic tutoring. The test-taking techniques and strategies taught in our SAT tutoring and ACT tutoring programs enable students to earn higher test scores and gain admission to competitive colleges and universities. Our expert subject tutors and personalized lesson plans help students earn better grades and become happier, more confident students. Whether you're looking for a math tutor , or any other type of academic tutoring , StudyPoint can help. To learn about tutoring programs in your area, feel free to contact us for more information.

About StudyPoint

StudyPoint offers private, in-home SAT, PSAT, ACT & SSAT tutoring. Our staff also includes expert math, science, foreign language, and writing tutors.

• Preparing For College
• College Applications
• Supporting Your Student
• Guidance Counselors
• College Selection
• College Selection Process
• PLAN Test Info
• Transitions Program Info

Download for free!

Parent's guide to college admission.

Our newsletter is designed to offer you grade- and season- specific information that will help you navigate and stay on top of the college admissions process. We need high school graduation year to provide you with timely, relevant information. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Request More Info

If you'd like to learn more about one of our programs or are ready to enroll your child in tutoring, please contact us. Our Enrollment Consultants are experts in their fields and would be happy to help with recommendations for tutoring programs, courses of study, standardized tests, and admissions support.

1-87STUDYPOINT

You have successfully requested more information.

Thank you for your interest in our programs!

You can expect one of our Enrollment Directors to be in touch within one business day.

If you have an urgent tutoring need, you can reach out to a member of our staff directly at 1-87STUDYPOINT (1-877-883-9764). We are certain we can be a resource for you and your family this school year, and we look forward to speaking with you!

—The StudyPoint Staff

Our Privacy Policy: we are a professional service and we take our clients' privacy seriously. None of this information will ever be shared or sold.

• Plan for College and Career
• Take the ACT
• School and District Assessment
• Career-Ready Solutions
• Students & Parents
• Open Search Form
• College and Career Readiness
• Succeed in High School
• Most Popular Downloads
• Testing Advice for the ACT
• High School Resources
• What to Do After High School
• Prepare for College
• Applying to College
• Choosing a College
• Paying for College
• College Life
• Career Planning
• Starting Your Career
• Recursos para estudiantes y padres
• Consejos de prueba para el ACT
• Planificación universitaria y profesional
• Aplicar a la universidad
• Vida de la escuela secundaria
• Pagar la universidad
• Vida universitaria

Other ACT Services and Products

Dual Enrollment FAQs

What is dual enrollment.

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses and earn college credit before they graduate. 

What is the difference between dual enrollment and dual credit? 

Simply put, students who participate in dual enrollment programs are taking college courses and only earning college credit. Students who participate in dual credit programs are taking college courses and earning high school and college credit at the same time. 

Get the FREE eBook!

Why dual enrollment.

"I take dual credit classes because it is free college credit! My school pays for all the dual credit classes that I take, so it is less money I will have to spend on college later on in life. When people hear that it is a college class, they think it is going to be insanely hard, but that is not true. They are more challenging than a regular high school class, but when you are learning about things you are interested in the class is most likely going to be a lot easier."  -Savannah, Class of 2021 

Dual Enrollment - Frequently Asked Questions

How do I participate in a dual enrollment or dual credit program?  Dual enrollment policies vary from state to state. However, eligibility requirements typically include achieving a certain GPA, securing a letter of recommendation, getting written parental permission, and meeting a minimum ACT or SAT test score. You can learn more about your state’s policy  here . 

What are the benefits of dual enrollment?   There are several reasons to consider obtaining college credit while you’re still in high school. Dual enrollment programs help you to save time and money, take classes that your high school doesn’t offer, understand the expectations of college-level courses earlier, and explore your interests before choosing a major. In addition,  ACT research  found that students entering college with dual credit are generally more likely to complete a bachelor’s degree faster than those who do not. And, students with dual credit are as likely to earn a B or higher in subsequent courses taken in college. 

Where are dual enrollment and dual credit classes offered?  These classes are often offered at two-year and four-year institutions, at your high school, or online. (Research says that chances of college success do not differ between those who take most of their dual-credit coursework through a two-year institution and those who take most through a four-year institution.) 

Who pays for tuition?  It depends on the state. In some states, the program is funded by the state, the high school, or the college. Other times, the student is responsible for the associated fees.  

Are there any disadvantages of participating in dual enrollment?  Dual enrollment can be an awesome opportunity for students, but you should consider a few things before jumping in. For starters, taking a college-level course can be a great resume booster when it comes to college applications. Just be sure to choose classes that make sense with your future goals. If you want to pursue a major in biology, taking an art class may be a red flag to an admissions officer. It’s also important to do your research to make sure the classes you’re taking can be transferred to the college you want to attend after you graduate high school. Also, remember that these classes are on your permanent record, so make sure you are prepared to dedicate adequate time to studying and learning the material. If you’re already overwhelmed with other obligations (sports, clubs, work, etc.), it might not be a good time to pursue dual enrollment classes.  

This action will open a new window. Do you want to proceed?

Welcome to ACT

If you are accessing this site from outside the United States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. Territories, please proceed to the non-U.S. version of our website.

What is dual enrollment? Earn college credit in high school

- Dual enrollment is when a student is enrolled in two different schools at the same time.

- It’s usually done by high school students who want to take college-level courses while still in high school.

- Dual enrollment can help you earn college credit early — and often for free or for a low cost.

In high school, most teens are focused on earning a high school diploma. Many plan to go to college after high school. But did you know you can do both at the same time?

Dual enrollment classes let teens get ahead by earning college credit at the same time as they earn high school credit. But what is dual enrollment, exactly — and how can you get involved?

What is dual enrollment?

Dual enrollment is an educational program that allows teens to take courses that satisfy requirements for both high school and college coursework, at the same time.

For instance, a high school junior could enroll in a college-level English class that also meets the requirements of high school English classes. By taking that one class, they could earn college credit before they’ve even earned their high school diploma. 

This is why these courses are called dual credit classes sometimes. What is dual credit? It’s the same as dual enrollment — these programs can go by different names and have different requirements, depending on where you live. This may also be called concurrent enrollment, Running Start in a few states, or another state-specific name.

Many dual enrollment classes are taken on college campuses or offered online. Typically, these classes are offered by local community colleges. Participating high schools will have partnerships with local colleges to help their students earn credits.

Dual enrollment students will typically attend both their high school campus and a local college campus. For example, a student might have English, history, and physical education at their high school in the morning, followed by Spanish and algebra at a nearby community college in the afternoon.

When students complete coursework, they’ll be awarded college credit which will later show up on their college transcripts. And because those courses also satisfy high school requirements, the courses will also show up on high school transcripts (and apply toward graduation).

What’s the point of dual enrollment?

Now that you know what dual enrollment is, you can see that participating in a dual enrollment program offers a lot of perks. Some key benefits of dual enrollment include:

It helps save you time in working toward a college degree.

It helps save you and your parents money (because it’s typically much cheaper to earn college credits through dual enrollment, compared to standard college credits — and it may even be free in some areas).

It helps you avoid “doubling up,” which happens when you study similar subjects in both high school and college.

It helps you tackle prerequisites for your target degree program in college before you even leave high school.

You’ll also continue to work toward high school graduation requirements at the same time.

You’ll be able to gain some college experience and prepare for college before leaving high school.

Ultimately, if you take full advantage of dual enrollment, you could graduate high school with a good chunk of college credit — and perhaps even an associate degree (or close to one).

This not only saves you time, but it also saves you and your family a bunch of money. Plus, you get a preview of college life, and the opportunity to leave your high school campus and do some cool stuff!

How do I get involved in dual enrollment classes?

The first step is to figure out the requirements for dual enrollment in your state and at your high school. The easiest way to do this is to ask a school counselor.

You can also check this guide to state-level dual enrollment requirements . Each state, and even some individual school districts, have their own requirements for dual enrollment.

In general, most states require that students be at a certain grade level (often juniors and seniors) and maintain a certain GPA in order to enroll in college courses.

For instance, many states require that you are at least a junior in high school and have a current GPA of at least 3.0. But again, the rules vary! Some states also have programs for homeschool students.

Once you’re enrolled in a program, you’ll work with counselors (at your high school, the college, or both) to enroll in the proper college classes. And then you’ll start attending classes at the college (or online) while continuing to take high school classes at your school.

Keep in mind that you’ll now be enrolled in college-level classes. They’re likely to be more difficult than standard high school classes and may require more of a time commitment for homework. Testing requirements will also likely be different. For instance, college exams tend to have fewer true/false and multiple-choice questions and more questions that require written answers.

Talk to your school counselor if you have any questions about your school’s dual enrollment opportunities. 

How much does dual enrollment cost?

Each state has its own program for dual enrollment. Some states make the program entirely free, but most charge students a small amount to take college courses. For instance, you might have to pay between $50 and $400 per class.

Still, that’s much cheaper than normal college courses, which on average cost $1,170 per class . And, fortunately, some schools have waiver programs for low-income students and their families.

Because these dual enrollment programs cost less than a typical college class would, they can save families a lot of money on college costs and potentially even help students pay for college without student loans . Planning ahead and using a 529 plan to save for college , combined with utilizing dual enrollment classes, can really help to make college more affordable.

Is dual enrollment the same as advanced placement (AP) classes?

Both dual enrollment and advanced placement (AP) classes offer college-level coursework, and both can help you earn college credit. However, there are some differences.

AP classes are typically taught at high schools. They’re still intended to be college-level classes, but they’re organized by the high school and taught by high school teachers. You’ll only find other high schoolers taking AP classes.

Dual enrollment classes are generally taught at colleges (usually community colleges). They are actual college courses, taught by college professors and attended by both high school dual enrollment students and college students.

Also, AP students will be required to take a standardized test at the end of the course. They must achieve a certain score on the test in order to earn college credit. 

On the other hand, dual enrollment classes will also typically have tests, but you should be able to earn college credit as long as you earn a passing grade in your class. Just keep in mind that some colleges require a certain grade in classes in order for that credit to transfer — so check with the college or university that you plan to go to, or ask your school counselor. 

Dual enrollment helps teens get ahead.

For motivated students, dual enrollment is an excellent way to get a jump-start on your college career — and help save you and your family money in the long run. Plus, it’s pretty cool to be able to visit a campus and experience a bit of college life early.

Now that you know what dual enrollment is, this is a perfect time to plan ahead and think about college savings . It’s a good idea to talk with your parents about paying for college, qualifying for financial aid , and all the other not-so-fun stuff involved with paying for the cost of higher education. (Parents can also use the Greenlight Family Cash card to start saving for college.)

Now is also a good time to start thinking about ways that you can make money in your spare time, while also learning how to manage your money. Talk to your parents about Greenlight , the all-in-one money app for teens. Greenlight comes with a debit card, plus tools for saving, investing, budgeting, and learning more about money. Try one month of Greenlight — our treat.

Hey, $mart parents 👋

Teach money lessons at home with Greenlight’s $mart Parent newsletter. Money tips, insights, and fun family trivia — delivered every month.

Try today. Our treat.

After your one-month trial, plans start at just $4.99/month for the whole family. Includes up to five kids.

Our Services

University Admissions Support

Medical School Admissions Support

Boarding School Program

Crimson Global Academy

Crimson Rise

Crimson Research Institute

Oxbridge Summer Residential Program

Crimson Foundation Programs

Our Mentors

Our Leaders, Advisors & Investors

Our University Admissions Strategists

Meet our Teams

Careers at Crimson

Tutoring at Crimson

Crimson in the News

Crimson Youth Fund

Resources New

US College Admissions Calculator

UK University Admissions Calculator

Mini SAT Practice Test

SAT / ACT Converter

University Profiles

Extracurricular Opportunities

Crimson Bilibili Channel

GYE Competition

+86 (0)21 6315 5619

Go back to all articles

Understanding Dual Enrollment: A Comprehensive Guide for High School Students and Parents

Dual enrollment, also called concurrent enrollment, allows students to accumulate college credit while in high school, gaining early exposure to college work with the benefit of cost savings. Given its benefits, it comes with no surprise that dual enrollment is increasing in popularity among high schoolers. As such, this blog post aims to provide an in-depth understanding of dual enrollment, and help high school students and parents make informed decisions.

What is Dual Enrollment?

Dual enrollment allows high schoolers to earn college credits in select courses, while simultaneously enrolled in high school. Dual enrolled students can then apply their earned credits to fulfil both high school and college graduation requirements, getting a headstart in earning a degree.

There are different types of dual enrollment programs available. Some high schools offer dual enrollment classes, allowing students to enrol in additional college classes beyond the high school curriculum. This could come in the form of taking high school classes approved for dual enrollment by various colleges. Other high schools also offer dual enrollment classes, where the students physically attend classes at a tertiary education institute. Alternatively, enrolment in online dual enrollment courses is also a possible option.

Benefits of Dual Enrollment

The advantages of dual enrollment are substantial. Financially , the attainment of college credits prior to starting college allows one to graduate earlier and save on college tuition , and related expenditure like textbooks and materials.

Academically , dual enrollment allows one to be exposed to college expectations and workload early on, allowing for a smoother progression into college. Attending classes at selected colleges can also serve as a mini ‘ Open Day ’ - allowing high school students to experience the culture and student life at the particular college.

Dual enrollment can also benefit your personal goals and development . Graduating earlier not only means saving on tuition, but crucially, saving on time. This allows for earlier entry into the workforce , and more time in college to devote to internships and other opportunities for further exposure.

Last but not least, it is imperative to note that embarking on dual enrollment courses could bolster your college applications , in serving as evidence of your initiative and academic ability at a higher level. Further, this presents a valuable opportunity to explore different academic disciplines , allowing for a more  informed decision prior to committing to a major.

In the context of today’s student climate where many are uncertain over their academic and/or career interests, this can prove to be especially valuable.

Potential Challenges of Dual Enrollment

While there are numerous and substantial benefits in taking on dual enrollment, it comes with its fair share of challenges. 

Notably, as it is an added commitment on top of your high school workloads, juggling these commitments can be demanding. Taking on a more rigorous workload can come with a negative effect on your GPA, as dual credits are known to be more challenging - causing a lower cumulative GPA. 

Beyond the potential impediments academically, the additional time devoted to dual enrollment courses can come at the expense of your social life, and extracurricular activities . Unfortunately, we have a scarcity of time, but an infinity of possible commitments we could take on. Time management and prioritisation is therefore of paramount importance, and presents a notable challenge.

Another potential challenge will be imperfect information . Some colleges like those of the Ivy League do not accept these dual credits , and it is thus necessary for high school students to do their research diligently to ensure the transferability of their credits painstakingly attained.

Factors to Consider Before Joining a Dual Enrollment Program

The importance of assessing individual readiness academically prior to joining a dual enrollment program cannot be overstated. This will help ensure that taking on dual credits does not come at the expense of your ability to stay ahead of your classes, as well as disproportionate trade-offs with other aspects of your life - perhaps socially or recreationally. For instance, you could consider your current workload in high school and how you are coping with respect to your target GPA , prior to embarking on extracurricular commitments like a dual enrollment program.

Do take the time to research the available programs, eligibility criteria, and the transferability of credits to future colleges of your choice to find the one most suited to your needs and goals. This may sound daunting, but you do not have to be alone! Consulting with your high school counsellors and parents will be crucial in helping you to make an informed decision.

It is important to understand the difference between dual enrollment courses and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. The table below compares the two in more detail:

Dual Enrollment vs. Advanced Placement Classes

Tips for success in dual enrollment programs.

As the age-old axiom goes, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

Make sure to keep track of all deadlines and plan your revision ahead, to allocate sufficient time to your commitments. As we all know, cramming and last-minute work is far from ideal.

Excelling in dual enrollment programs while juggling high school commitments will require discipline. Specifically, the discipline to execute your planned schedules to the tee, in order to manage your time judiciously.

Next, make sure to take on a subject that you genuinely have an interest in and inclination for. This will help you to be intrinsically motivated to explore and study the subject at this higher level, which can make the process of earning dual credits less taxing and more enjoyable.

As another cliche goes, “Work smart, not hard.” While this may have provoked an eye-roll in response, it is crucial to find study techniques that help you retain and digest the information you study efficiently, and effectively. Studying 10 hours a day is not the point; it is more about how much you can achieve within an hour of revision.

Youtubers like Ali Abdaal , a graduate from Cambridge University, offer great insights and well curated evidenced-based videos about effective study habits like active recall and spaced repetition. These can be incredibly useful to allow students to try these techniques out, and modify or implement them into their study sessions according to their preferences and needs.

Having the initiative to seek help from instructors is also crucial - this will help to prevent you from falling behind further. Be sure to clarify any doubts on the spot, to not let your knowledge gaps snowball over time.

Do also maintain open communication with your high school and college advisors - this will allow them to be on the ball with your progress, and provide you with their insights and advice in a timely fashion. High school life is hectic enough - let others help you where they can, and leverage upon all the resources available to you!

Last but not least, make sure you have a break every now and then - you are a human, not a robot. Even smartphones and electric cars need to be recharged. Pomodoro techniques that alternate between slots of work and break time can be useful in this sense.

On top of juggling your hectic college life and dual enrollment courses, make sure you allocate time to decompress and destress . This is crucial, to prevent burnout and ensure you continue thriving in the program over the long haul. Overworking, contrary to popular belief, can actually be counterproductive.

To conclude, dual enrollment is an excellent avenue for high school students seeking to gain exposure to college level work and graduate early. Discipline and initiative are just some of the required traits to do well on such a program. While it comes with its substantial benefits, one should consider the challenges of juggling it on top of existing high school commitments, as well as the potential costs of negatively impacting one’s GPA. As such, students and parents are strongly encouraged to evaluate and weigh the pros and cons of dual enrollment, to make a final informed decision that best suits their individual needs and goals.

Key Resources & Further Reading

• Join our free webinars on US university applications
• Free eBooks and guides to help with the college application process

More Articles

Ivy league acceptance rates for the class of 2028.

How to Ace the Common App Activities List: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bowdoin College Admits 7% Of Students To The Class of 2028

Start Your Journey To a Top University Today!

Crimson students are up to 4x more likely to gain admission into top universities book a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you get there.

• Scholarship Searches

Posted - November 25, 2023

What is dual enrollment and what are the benefits?

Students in high school today have many options to earn college credits before they even start college; dual enrollment is one such way. Others are taking AP classes and exams. One of the main reasons students find dual enrollment appealing is the fact that it can earn them college credits and ultimately reduce how much they pay for college. These programs can also improve some students' chances of going to college, especially first-generation students and those from underserved communities. But what is dual enrollment?

Table of Contents

What is Dual Enrollment?

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses and earn both high school and college credits at the same time. These programs are often offered at community colleges, although some 4-year colleges also offer them. 

Some programs allow you to earn a few college credits, while other programs like early college high school programs might allow you to earn an associate degree while you are in high school.

Sounds great, right? But what are the benefits and challenges of dual enrollment, and how can you help your student decide if it is right for them? Let’s dig in.

>>RELATED POSTE: How to Get a Full-Ride Scholarship

What is the difference between dual enrollment and dual credit?

Before we dive into the details of dual enrollment, let's clarify some terms. Dual enrollment and dual credit are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing.

Dual enrollment means that a student is enrolled in both high school and college at the same time. Dual credit means that a student earns both high school and college credits for the same course. Most dual enrollment programs offer dual credit, but not all dual credit courses are part of a dual enrollment program.

Where are dual enrollment classes offered?

Dual enrollment classes can be offered in different settings, depending on the program and the partnership between the high school and the college. Some common options are:

1. On-campus

Students take classes at the college campus, along with other college students and taught by college professors. In some cases, students might come to campus for a class or two, or they could be part of an early college high school that is housed on the college campus.

Students take classes online, through the college's learning management system or platform. They may have to attend live sessions or complete assignments on their own schedule.

Students take classes that combine online and on-campus components. For example, they may attend lectures online and do labs or projects on campus.

4. High school

At their high school, teachers who are qualified to teach college-level courses instruct students in classes. The classes may follow the curriculum and standards of the college, or they may undergo changes to accommodate the high school's schedule and requirements.

>>RELATED POST: Top 25 Scholarship for High School Seniors

Benefits of dual enrollment

These classes can offer many advantages for high school students, such as:

1. Saving time and money

By earning college credits while still in high school, students can reduce the time and cost of completing a college degree. Depending on the program and the state you live in, students may be able to take dual enrollment courses for free or at a reduced tuition rate.

2. Exploring academic interests

Dual enrollment courses can expose students to a variety of subjects and disciplines that they may not encounter in their regular high school curriculum. This can help them discover their passions and career goals, as well as prepare them for the rigor and expectations of college-level work.

3. Boosting academic performance

Research shows that students enrolled in these classes tend to have higher GPAs, graduation rates, and college enrollment rates than their peers who do not participate in dual enrollment. Participation in these classes can also improve students' confidence, motivation, and study skills.

4. Enhancing college readiness

Dual enrollment can help students transition smoothly from high school to college by giving them a taste of the college environment and culture. Students can learn how to manage their time, balance their workload, communicate with professors, and navigate campus resources. Studies show that these programs boost college-going and persistence rates among first-generation students and students from underserved communities.

Challenges of dual enrollment

While dual enrollment presents many advantages, it is important to be aware of two notable challenges. Firstly, students must balance the demands of high school and college courses, which can be stressful and overwhelming. Good time management and organization skills are essential for success in dual enrollment.

Secondly, eligibility requirements, including GPA, test scores, and prerequisites, must be met. Additionally, approval from a high school counselor and parent may be necessary. Adjusting to different expectations, such as grading policies and homework assignments, can also be a challenge, and students may miss out on high school experiences and feel disconnected from their peers and teachers.

How to decide if dual enrollment is right for your student

Dual enrollment is not for everyone. It is important to consider your student's academic goals, interests, abilities, and personality before enrolling them in dual enrollment courses. Here are some questions to ask yourself and your student:

1. What are the reasons for your student's interest in dual enrollment? Are they seeking career exploration, academic challenges, or save time and money? There are no wrong answers.  2. How does your student perform academically? Do they have a strong GPA and test scores, along with the required skills and knowledge for their desired dual enrollment courses? 3. Is your student mature and responsible enough to handle a heavier workload and more challenging courses? Can they effectively manage their time, meet deadlines, and seek help when needed? 4. Is your student involved in their high school community? Do they participate in clubs, sports, and other activities, and have friends and mentors at their current school? 5. How flexible and adaptable is your student? Can they adjust to different teaching styles and expectations, and cope with the stress that might come from being in a college environment?

If you and your student answer these questions honestly and positively, then dual enrollment may be a good option for them. However, if you or your student have doubts or concerns about any of these aspects, then you may want to reconsider or postpone dual enrollment until your student is more ready.

Dual enrollment is a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses and earn both high school and college credits at the same time. One of the many benefits of dual enrollment is saving money, but it also has some challenges.

Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of dual enrollment and consider your student's individual needs and goals before enrolling them in dual enrollment courses. If you are interested in learning more about this program, you can contact your high school counselor or visit the website of the college in your area (usually the community college) that offers the program. They can provide you with more information about the eligibility requirements, course offerings, and costs.

Related posts:

• 5 Tips to Win Your Financial Aid Appeal
• 5 Benefits of Attending a Community College
• Early College Programs Could Reduce Student Debt
• 5 Reasons You Should Borrow Less For College

Don’t forget to share this post!

Not sure what school is right for you, subscribe below to receive our free ultimate scholarship guide.

Want to learn the tips, tricks and strategies to win scholarships?

Subscribe below to receive our free scholarship essay guide.

GET THE SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY GUIDE

and learn how to find and win scholarships.

We use cookies to better understand how you use our website, which allows us to provide you with the best possible user experience. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Read more about our Privacy Policy.

Apply       Visit       Give       |      Alumni       Parents       Offices       TCNJ Today       Three Bar Menu

TCNJ partners with Hamilton Board of Education to offer early college credit and financial savings to families

As part of The College of New Jersey’s continuing efforts to help reduce the cost of a college degree for families in New Jersey, TCNJ has partnered with the Hamilton Township School District (Mercer County) to allow students in the district to earn up to two years’ worth of college credit while still in high school.

Starting in September 2024, 26 advanced placement courses, taught by highly qualified Hamilton School District high school teachers to eligible students, will become part of TCNJ’s dual enrollment program which allows high school students to earn college credits.

“Through this partnership, the cost to receive a college degree can be significantly reduced for families,” said Lisa Angeloni , vice president of enrollment management at TCNJ. “In addition to earning credits that can be applied toward a degree, this program will enrich and broaden the educational experiences for these students and provide them with a stimulating and rigorous educational challenge.”

When participants successfully complete a dual enrollment course and meet the grade requirement of C or better, they receive college transfer credit.

“HTSD continues to develop and provide high-level educational opportunities for our students,” said Scott Rocco, superintendent of Hamilton Township schools. “This agreement with The College of New Jersey is a substantial step in those efforts and provides our students with many more dual enrollment opportunities than most school districts around the state. HTSD and I thank The College of New Jersey for their continued collaboration on learning opportunities for our students and the many other educational experiences afforded our faculty.”

“We’re extremely proud to offer this opportunity to high school students in Hamilton Township,” Angeloni said. “The district offers an extremely high-quality educational experience and is one of the largest and most diverse districts in the state, making them a great partner for expanding our dual enrollment program.”

This partnership with Hamilton marks the 11 th New Jersey public school district participating in TCNJ’s dual enrollment program. The college expects to add additional partner districts in the coming months. For more information and a full list of partners please visit the program’s website.

TCNJ Today || Parents || Alumni

Campus Life

A-Z | Directory | Map | Offices

Facebook     Twitter     LinkedIn     Instagram     YouTube

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Roanoke College receives $3.5 million for dual-enrollment lab school for local high school students

ROANOKE, Va. ( WFXR )—The Virginia Board of Education approved Roanoke College’s application for a $3.5 million start-up grant to launch a new laboratory school in the fall.

The new lab school, Explore@RC, is set for high-school students enrolled in a dual-enrollment program taking college-level courses on Roanoke’s campus. The program will serve as a partnership with Salem City Schools and Salem High School students in its first year, but the college plans on expanding to neighboring districts in the future.

“Our team is so excited to launch Explore@RC,” said Lisa Stoneman , chair of Roanoke’s Education Department. “These initial dual-enrollment courses are just the beginning of our community outreach vision. Growing into our 150-student capacity and extending on-campus learning opportunities to middle and elementary students is part of our dream for a lab school that will positively impact the region as well as the students and faculty at Roanoke.”

Roanoke College’s Center for Civic Engagement receives grant to continue funding student community service

The classes will span multiple school subjects but will focus on specific career pathways such as education and global studies; science, engineering, and technology; and communication and civic leadership. These classes will not only help interested students get a head start in their career path but also help them complete classes for college graduation requirements before some students have even considered higher education.

“Students who take dual-enroll courses are more likely to graduate from high school, are better prepared to transition to a college setting, and spend less time – and money – completing a college degree,” said Roanoke College President Frank Shushok Jr . “This partnership is an investment in our community that will pay great dividends by providing local students with clearly defined pathways to college and careers.”

The Board of Education funding, made possible by the College Partnership Laboratory Fund, is believed to be the largest government grant ever awarded to Roanoke College. Roanoke is one of only two private colleges in Virginia that has been approved for a lab school.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.

Recommended Stories

I went on the 'sex and the city' tour. for the show's fans, carrie bradshaw's new york city is still alive..

New fans and critics of "Sex and the City" are born every day, so I spent some time with longtime viewers to learn why the show still resonates decades later.

Mortgage rates today, April 27, 2024: 30-year and 15-year rates inch up

These are today's mortgage rates. If you can comfortably afford a mortgage with today's rates, you may want to start looking at homes. Lock in your rate today.

Hyundai will build more hybrids to supplement slowing EV demand

Hyundai said it would add more hybrids to its previously EV-only production lines in Georgia.

Can climbing stairs help you live longer? 4 takeaways from this week's health news.

News you can use about gratitude, aging and getting out in the great outdoors.

2024 NFL Draft: Fantasy football winners and losers after Rounds 2 and 3

Scott Pianowski examines the potential fantasy impact of intriguing receivers and running backs taken on Day 2 of the NFL Draft.

NBA Playoffs: Suns' much-hyped season all but over after falling behind 3-0 vs. Timberwolves

Anthony Edwards dropped 36 points in Phoenix.

NFL Draft: Sorry Jim Harbaugh, Michigan RB Blake Corum goes to cross-town Rams

The Rams seemed like an unlikely landing spot for Blake Corum.

NBA Playoffs: Kawhi Leonard looks far from 100% in Clippers' chippy loss to Mavericks

It was ugly all over for the Clippers in Game 3.

NFL Draft: Adonai Mitchell says he's 'kind of pissed' after slide to Colts in second round

Many people had the Texas WR as a first-round prospect.

Apple has reportedly resumed talks with OpenAI to build a chatbot for the iPhone

Apple has resumed talks with OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, to build an AI-powered chatbot into the iPhone, according to a new report.

NFL Draft: Bills start the 2nd round by finally taking a receiver, Keon Coleman

The Bills found a new target for Josh Allen.

NFL Draft: Jim Harbaugh's Chargers get aggressive, trade up to take WR Ladd McConkey

Justin Herbert has a new receiver to work with.

How Rubrik’s IPO paid off big for Greylock VC Asheem Chandna

When Asheem Chandna drove up to Rubrik's office in Palo Alto on a Friday night in early 2015, he was looking forward to learning what the young company that had yet to build its product would show him. The Greylock partner wasn't disappointed. The company's CEO, Bipul Sinha, drew Rubrik's plan to revamp the data management and recovery market on a whiteboard.

NBA playoffs: Tyrese Hailburton game-winner and potential Damian Lillard Achilles injury leaves Bucks in nightmare

Tyrese Haliburton hit a floater with 1.1 seconds left in overtime to give the Indiana Pacers a 121–118 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pacers lead their first-round playoff series two games to one.

Pickleballers, rejoice: Prince's new Target collab has everything you need to stand out on the court

Step up your style game with these retro-inspired pullovers, hoodies, belt bags and more.

8 ways to keep your brain healthy, from doing crossword puzzles to limiting alcohol

Brain health is something people of all ages should be thinking about, say experts. Here are some smart steps you can take to do just that.

Chevrolet Equinox Plus is a PHEV for China, maybe America

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox Plus, a plug-in hybrid SUV, recently debuted at the Beijing Auto Show, promising a long driving range and familiar styling.

This iconic, universally flattering Clinique lipstick sells out fast — grab it while it's a rare 20% off

It's been a staple since the 1980s thanks to its moisturizing formula and chameleon-like hue.

Photos show week of antiwar protests at USC, Columbia, Emerson and other schools across U.S.

Protests are currently happening at college campuses around the country as students show support for Palestinians in Gaza.

Michael Penix Jr. said Kirk Cousins called him after Falcons' surprising draft selection

Atlanta Falcons first-round draft pick Michael Penix Jr. said quarterback Kirk Cousins called him after he was picked No. 8 overall in one of the 2024 NFL Draft's more puzzling selections.