If the idea of taking college-level classes while in high school appeals to you, dual enrollment may be for you. A completely optional way to earn college credits during high school.
Your motivation for doing so is mostly about cost (or maybe you need to take more advanced courses than your high school offers). The ability to knock out expensive credits before they arrive on campus can accelerate your graduation timeline and limit your degree out-of-pocket costs.
Let’s find out more about double registration.
What is Dual Enrollment?
Dual enrollment, sometimes called dual credit, is a type of class that counts as both high school and college credit. Eligible high school students may take dual enrollment classes. When a student passes a class, credits count toward both a high school diploma and a college diploma.
How dual registration works
The attraction of dual enrollment is that you can meet high school requirements and college coursework at the same time. However, the exact mechanics of the program vary from school to school.
Students typically begin by applying for a dual enrollment program. Students can earn a bachelor’s degree, an associate’s degree, or a certificate. If accepted, students can take available classes that match their interests and strengths.
Depending on your situation, you can take classes through a high school, an online course, or a local community college. Students must achieve at least a C grade to pass the class. Regardless of your grades, it will become part of your college record.
When applying to college, schools may or may not accept dual enrollment credits. In-state public colleges are more likely to accept dual enrollment credits than out-of-state or private colleges.
Dual Enrollment vs. AP Class
Both dual enrollment and AP classes offer the opportunity to earn college credit as a high school student.
Here’s a breakdown of the differences:
position
Dual enrollment classes are college courses available to high school students. Some high schools have dual enrollment options on campus, but many students are required to take these classes on college campuses or online.
In contrast, Advanced Placement (AP) classes are taught only by high school teachers. AP classes are designed for college-level study, but students are not required to take these classes online or at a community college.
course length
Most dual enrollment courses are one semester, or half of the academic year. In some cases, AP classes only last her one semester. But AP’s classes often last his first grade.
The ability to take classes each semester opens the door to more coursework opportunities.
credit
Students who pass dual enrollment courses with a grade of C or better automatically receive college credit. If the university you choose to attend accepts dual enrollment credits, there are no additional testing requirements.
However, students taking AP courses must pass a standardized exam at the end of the year. The university you plan to attend determines the minimum score for credit.
requirements
Dual registration requirements vary by state. Generally, only middle school and high school students can earn dual enrollment credits. However, some states allow exceptions for gifted students.
Certain states, such as Alabama, Florida, and North Carolina, require students to maintain a minimum GPA to stay in dual enrollment programs. Often the requirement is an unweighted GPA of 3.0.
Additionally, many states require students to obtain a written recommendation from high school or college staff. Recommendations should include why the student is ready for the dual enrollment course.
Many dual enrollment programs also require parental permission, minimum SAT scores, completion of course prerequisites, and other requirements set by the College of Management.
price
The exact cost will depend on where you live. In some cases, dual enrollment options are available free of charge through community colleges.
Dual enrollment classes range from free to $400 per class, according to Pearson. Additionally, students may need to purchase expensive college textbooks.
of average cost A traditional college course is $926. As such, dual enrollment is often a more affordable option than traditional college coursework.
Advantages and disadvantages of dual registration
Every education choice has its pros and cons. Note the following about dual registration: