Many of the high school students I work with have very busy schedules. They've crammed as many academic and extra-curricular activities as they possibly could into their waking hours and are absolutely floored by the idea of one more activity. But, some few actually relish taking on another task and look forward to the challenges and opportunities dual-enrollment can provide.

What is dual-enrollment?
Dual-enrollment is the term used for high school students who enroll in college courses for the purpose of earning both high school and college credit.

Who can enroll in dual-enrollment courses?
The "who" will vary from college to college; but, generally, high school juniors and seniors who are in good standing, are in need of the types of credits that can be earned through dual-enrollment, and have the support of their counselors/principal as well as their parent(s) may opt to enroll in such courses. You'll need to check with your high school counselor and with the admissions office at the college you plan to attend for specific entrance requirements.

How is credit earned?
Again, this is one of those things that is going to vary based on the college you are attending. It will also vary based on the type of course you enroll in. In some courses, you earn your credit as soon as you complete the course (assuming you earn the grade required). In others (sometimes referred to as "tech-prep articulated courses"), the credit isn't "earned" until you actually enroll in college. You'll need to check with your high school counselor and with the admissions office at the college you plan to attend for specific credit guidelines.

How many credits can you earn?
More than likely, you are going to have some sort of limit on the number of credits you can take and earn each semester. Typically, you can take no more than six credits in a given semester (though some colleges will allow outstading students to go beyond this maximum). But, before enrolling, make sure you have enough time and energy left over at the end of your regular high school day to adequately do the work for the college course.

Is the credit you've earned (or will earn) transferable?
Generally. But, you should definitely sit down and discuss this issue with your high school counselor and with the admissions office at the college you plan to attend.

Is financial aid available for dual-enrollment coures?
Sometimes. Many colleges and universities enter into special agreements with schools and districts to either provide dual-enrollment courses at low or no cost to the student. But, there are still quite a few out there that will charge you. If you are charged, financial aid is generally not an option; though some colleges may allow you to set up a payment plan for tuition and fees.

However you go about it, dual-enrollment can be a great opportunity for you--if you have the time and energy and are willing to make the committment to completing the work. Keep in mind, however, just because you are still a high school student don't expect your college professors to go easy on you. As far as your college professor is concerned, you're just another student; and they're not going to accept anything from you except your best work. So make sure you give it your absolute best, should you choose to pursue this option.

Need more information on dual-enrollment? Check out The Gifted Kids' Survival Guide by Galbraith, Delisle and Espeland. Its a good primer for kids (and parents) that want the most out of their education options.

Until next time!

Lynn Byrne

Preparing for college admissions? Trying to find direction? Need a little help with the planning? Check out my college planning series:

• College Planning Made Easy--the planning and preparation workbook for the take charge, college-bound student,
  
• Paying for College Made Easy--a college financing guide designed to assist students and families in preparing and planning for higher education expenses; and
  
• The Great Scholarship Search--my guide for students and parents researching and applying for scholarship funding.