Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college classes while they are still enrolled in high school. These classes will count for high school credit and count as college credit (which may transfer to the college of your choice). Typically, a three to four credit college class will count as a one credit high school class. This allows a year’s worth of credit to be done in one semester. Schools will often require you to provide a transcript in order to participate in dual enrollment classes.
Dual enrollment allows students to explore different areas of interest before needing to select a college major. Students may also have leadership opportunities, be involved in honor societies, and sports or other extracurricular activities. Age requirements and the number of credits allowed per semester vary by institution. Some schools have discounted rates for dual enrollment or even have some free classes available via grant programs. It is helpful to investigate any dual enrollment transfer credit limitations of schools you plan to attend. Dual enrollment credits are transferrable but will not cause you to be considered a transfer student. This can be important for having freshman status for college scholarships.
Benefits of Dual Enrollment
- Head start on a degree
- Exposure to college level course work
- Improving their college readiness
- Explore potential majors while in high school
- Build self confidence
- Develop skills such as time management and following a syllabus
- Independence
- Financial, dual enrollment fees are often less than tuition for full time enrolled students.
- Professors can be a source of references
Dual Enrollment resources
Homeschooling for College – https://homeschoolingforcollegecredit.org/