What is dual enrollment? And can it affect high school and college GPA?
It’ll affect both. But that’s a good thing.
Dual enrollment is taking college classes while still in high school. And those courses taken count towards your high school and college degree, affecting credits and GPA.
That’s a two-for-one deal.
And that’s not the only benefit of dual enrollment:
- Faster Graduation: With extra credits fulfilled before freshman year even starts, you could graduate early or free up credit space for lighter semesters.
- College Experience: Taking early college courses will prepare high schoolers for the amount of work needed to succeed in higher education
- Money-Saver:: Compared to credit pricing for college students, dual enrollment classes come at a much cheaper rate.
Most dual enrollment programs will entail high school students going to the college campus during the school day and participating in a class led by a college professor.
This college course will go on for the stretch of a college semester in either spring or fall. Upon completion, the credits will be applicable to both the high school and college involved.
Dual enrollment programs vary greatly, so it’s essential to talk with your guidance counselor about your program and its limitations.
Some of which could be:
- Questionable Transferability: Transferring credits between institutions is not always viable and some schools won’t take certain credits, making it a gamble.
- More Commitment : Dual enrollment adds class time and course work to an already busy high school schedule. It’s an additional load that might end with a lower GPA.
- Increased Pressure: With extra responsibility comes an increased need to succeed. The added courses plus a higher level of dedication needed for college might lead to serious strain.
Interested in Online Dual Enrollment?
A way to add reliability to the credit transfer process while removing pressure is through online dual enrollment. At Portage Learning, college courses are offered for high schoolers with credits that have been transferred to over 2,500 institutions. It’s real professors teaching and assisting with every course which can be started and taken at any time. Taking courses online is a great way for high schoolers to get ahead. Check out our full list of college-level course offerings here!
