Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college classes while they are still enrolled in high school. These classes count for both high school and college credit. High school students who complete dual-enrollment classes generally take fewer classes in college and save money on total college costs.

To earn college credit, students must pass a dual-enrollment class with a C or better. The grade earned will be part of the student’s college academic record. Unlike AP classes, students do not have to pass an exam to earn college credit. College admissions counselors may consider dual-enrollment grades during the admissions process.

However, not all colleges accept dual-enrollment credits. An in-state public college is more likely to accept dual-enrollment credits than out-of-state public colleges or private colleges. 

Students who participate in dual-enrollment programs are more likely to graduate from high school, enroll in college, enroll full-time in college, earn higher grades in college and graduate from college. They are also more likely to obtain a Bachelor’s degree than an Associate’s degree or certificate.

Several studies have shown that dual-enrollment students are much more likely to graduate from college than students who do not take dual-enrollment classes.