What Is Dual Enrollment?
If your teen is thinking about college while in high school, you can give them a head start with dual enrollment. They may have an interest in one area or just want to take extra classes. Dual enrollment can provide several benefits that every student should consider. Read on to learn more about this education path and whether you should consider it for your teen.
What Is Dual Enrollment?
Some colleges provide dual enrollment, which means they allow high school students to take college courses before they graduate from high school. These courses count as high school credit for graduation while also providing college credit for a degree after graduation. Once a high schooler completes the college course with a passing grade, it’s added to their transcript. They will be able to take fewer classes in college with these credits in place.
How Do Dual Enrollment Programs Work?
Each school has different requirements for dual enrollment programs. The first step is usually for the student to determine what subjects they are interested in. They fill out an application to be accepted into the program at the college of their choice. You’ll need to find out if the course will count for college credit at most colleges. You’ll also need to determine if there are any restrictions and when you need to enroll. Make sure the student isn’t taking an AP class in the same subject. Most colleges won’t give you credit for a class that you take with a college course and AP class.
The Difference Between College Credit and AP or Honor Classes
AP, or Advanced Placement courses, are college-level courses a student may take in high school. They require more work than a traditional high school class, but they aren’t guaranteed to count as college credit. After completing the class, they must take a test to assess their knowledge and determine if the class will count as college credit. Dual enrollment courses automatically count based on completion.
Honors classes don’t count as college credit even though they are more difficult than traditional high school classes. They can, however, help the teen qualify for academic scholarships. Honors classes are usually available at all four high school levels while dual enrollment is designed for juniors and seniors.
Your teen can take dual enrollment classes, AP classes, and honors classes, but they should not overlap in the same areas.
Benefits and Challenges of Dual Enrollment
There are several reasons to consider dual enrollment for your teenager, including:
These classes are more challenging, which can stimulate them mentally and align with their interests.
It can help students choose their major earlier and set goals for their future.
Dual enrollment courses are more cost-effective.
Students who take multiple courses in dual enrollment may graduate sooner.
Multiple challenges come with dual enrollment. Though they shouldn’t scare you away from this plan, they should make you more aware. The number one issue is that the credits may not transfer. Take the time to talk to your high school counselor and find out if the classes they’re interested in will transfer easily.
Your teenager will have more responsibility to manage their schedule. They may have to complete assignments on their own without a teacher monitoring the work. The coursework is also more challenging, which may require them to include more study time in their schedule than normal.
Leading Edge Academy gives your student the education they require to help them prepare for college. You can enroll online or contact us at one of our campuses.