Looking for a challenge while also earning college credit? High school students have several options to choose from, including Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate classes. Recently, however, more and more students are choosing to enroll in dual enrollment programs that offer high school students the opportunity to take college classes on campus, at their high schools, or online. Adding a dual enrollment class to your transcripts will help you impress college admissions committees while also providing you with a genuine taste of the college experience. So, as you start making your course selections for next year, learn more about dual enrollment programs, their advantages and disadvantages, and strategies to guarantee success.
What is dual enrollment?
Dual enrollment is a way for high school students to earn high school and/or college credit by taking college-level classes either at their high school or at colleges and universities. Take courses in subjects not usually offered at your high school to more deeply explore your interests or take classes that will help fulfill college general education requirements, opening up the possibility to study abroad or graduate early. Eligibility and credit policies vary, so it’s important to work with your school counselor to select a program that meets your needs and qualifications.
Pros and Cons
You probably already know about Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs that give students a chance to earn college credit. So why choose dual enrollment? It’s complicated. Let’s start with how credit is earned. Credit is awarded for a dual enrollment class based on a student’s final grade, which is determined by performance on assignments and exams. Students only earn college credit for AP or IB classes if they pass an exam. Unlike AP or IB classes that take place in high school, dual enrollment often puts students in actual college classrooms, exposing them to college life and demonstrating college readiness. And, if you get the opportunity to take dual enrollment classes at a specific school on your college list, you will definitely stand out from the crowd.
Dual enrollment has its own downsides, however. Taking classes on a college campus sounds like an exciting experience, but most dual enrollment classes will not easily fit into a student’s schedule, requiring transportation some students do not have and time away from activities and social lives that some students may not want to sacrifice. Another potential complication is the fact that highly selective colleges are less likely to accept dual enrollment credit than credits earned from AP or IB programs. Some dual enrollment classes also come with a price tag. While AP and IB classes are just like any other class you take in high school, dual enrollment classes may require students to pay some fees, especially if your high school doesn’t cover all or some of the cost. Plus, taking too many dual enrollment classes could limit your financial aid options, since some scholarships are only awarded to students with freshman status.
Do Dual Enrollment Right
Yes, dual enrollment does have its disadvantages, but if you find the right program and carefully select a course of study that works for you, then it has the potential to yield substantial benefits. Guarantee your success by considering the following suggestions:
- Choose a schedule that works for you. Review your schedule and priorities, factoring in clubs, volunteering, sports, studying, and down time for chilling out or spending time with friends and family. Select courses that fit into your schedule and avoid trying to do too much.
- Budget your time. You are taking college classes, so it’s on you to take responsibility for managing your time and getting assignments done. Good grades are the best way to secure college credit and impress college admissions committees. To earn an A, expect to study for at least three hours a week per dual enrollment class, including reading, assignments, and preparing for exams.
- Advocate for yourself. Taking college-level classes means that you will more than likely not have the same type of attention and support from professors you might be used to from your high school teachers. So, if you have questions or need help, you are the one who will have to reach out.
- Access resources. Your school counselor should be able to not only help you navigate the process of applying and registering for dual enrollment classes, but he or she should also be someone who can point you in the direction of helpful resources. Take advantage of your professor’s office hours and utilize on campus resources, including libraries and tutoring centers.
- Exercise your study skills. One of the reasons you’re likely considering dual enrollment is a desire for more of a challenge compared to high school classes. So, if you could usually ace classes without putting in too much time or effort, expect that to change. Staying at the top of the class will require taking good notes, using study strategies like graphic organizers and flashcards, and connecting with fellow students who can be your study partners.
- Manage stress. Dual enrollment is supposed to be challenging, but take care of yourself to avoid burnout. While it might be tempting to munch on junk food while you’re studying or stay up late finishing an assignment, try to eat a balanced diet of nutritional foods and get at least eight hours of sleep every night. You will feel better and think better. If you do start feeling overwhelmed, reduce stress with exercise like a walk or yoga and don’t be afraid to seek out support.
How A+ Can Help
Now that you have all the details on dual enrollment, you are ready to decide if it’s a good fit for you. Remember that A+ Test Prep and Tutoring is here to support you. If you need help managing your time, our Executive Function Coaching services can help you learn how to prioritize tasks and prevent procrastination. Academic tutors will also work with you to fill in any learning gaps, tackle tough assignments, and prepare for exams. Getting ready to apply for college? We offer College Admission Coaching services to help you create a college list and College Admission Essay and Editing services to help you craft standout essays. Dual Enrollment programs are a great option for students seeking a rigorous learning experience and credit towards a college, but it’s not for everyone. Talk to your parents and school counselor to explore your options and ensure that you can pursue dual enrollment without causing burnout or financial stress.
At A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, our practices are based on the latest developments in educational theory and research. We have an excellent team of tutors who can help you with standardized testing, executive functioning, or achievement in any other school subject. If you want to find out more about our services, contact us here.
0 Comments