Making College Affordable with Dual Enrollment
As the cost of college continues to rise, many students and their families are looking for alternative ways to make college more affordable and accessible. One of the best options that is gaining traction in U.S. high schools is dual enrollment courses.
Dual enrollment courses allow high school students to earn college credits while they are still in high school. These courses can significantly reduce the financial cost that comes with higher education. Additionally, these classes can help students prepare for college-level work and make education more accessible.
The Benefits of Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment saves money
Dual enrollment courses give students the opportunity to take college-level classes while they’re still in high school. These courses are completely free which means students get college credit without the cost of tuition. By earning these college credits early, students can meet college requirements and reduce their overall tuition expenses.
Get a head start on college
All credits earned through dual enrollment will satisfy educational requirements at most colleges and universities. For students who want to graduate early or get a head start on college courses, this can be a huge benefit. Not only can students explore a variety of majors and courses, but they can also pursue advanced degrees with less financial strain.
Prepare for college-level courses
Many high school students are nervous when it comes to applying to schools and taking their first college classes. Dual enrollment courses allow students to experience college-level courses with additional support and resources.
Tips for Making the Most of Dual Enrollment
Make a Plan with your School Counselor
If your child is interested in pursuing dual enrollment classes, the first step is to set up a meeting with their school counselor. Counselors work with students to choose courses that meet both high school and college graduation requirements. This ensures that every credit serves a dual purpose, which will save your child time and money.
Research College Transfer Policies
For students who are interested in applying to specific colleges, researching transfer policies can be a valuable step. While most colleges and universities accept dual enrollment credits, some may be different from others. Before enrolling in dual credit courses, students should research the transfer policies of the colleges they are interested in applying to. Knowing how these credits will be applied toward their educational requirements can ensure a smooth transition from high school to college.
Communication with College Admissions
Working with school counselors and college admissions offices can help your student create an academic plan for success. Some institutions may have specific guidelines when it comes to dual enrollment credits. Finding this information can prevent surprises during the college application process.
Get started with dual enrollment!
Contact your Student’s School Counselor
The first step to starting dual enrollment courses is to set up a meeting between your student and their school counselor. Counselors can provide valuable resources and information to ensure that dual enrollment fits within their high school graduation requirements and college goals. They can help your child navigate the application process and make decisions about which courses will help them reach their goals.
Find Dual Enrollment Resources
Lake Tahoe Community College’s Dual Enrollment program offers a variety of courses that satisfy high school and college graduation requirements. Their advisors can help your student find courses that meet their academic goals and help them save money. Additionally, they provide extra support to encourage academic success and continuation in the dual enrollment program.
Make a plan for college
Whether your student is interested in attending a university or community college, it is important to have a plan in place. Not only should your student research the academic requirements of their schools of choice, but they should also work closely with their school counselors to map out their class schedule. By choosing courses that fulfill high school and college requirements, all credits you earned through dual enrollment will help your student graduate high school and contribute to their college degree. In the long run, this will help them save money on tuition.
Learn more
Dual enrollment courses are an excellent solution to the rising cost of college education. By taking these classes, students can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with earning a degree. As we collectively work together to make higher education more affordable, dual enrollment is a powerful tool that empowers students to pursue their academic and career goals without the overwhelming weight of student debt.
If you are interested in learning more about dual enrollment, please contact College Bound Lake Tahoe. We are happy to help you and your child navigate course options, applications, and more!
