AP and Dual Enrollment: Navigating the Best Path for Students

As a parent of a high school senior, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of both dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. My daughter has been fortunate enough to participate in both programs, gaining college credits while still in high school and experiencing the rigor that will prepare her for the next step in her academic journey. Yet, as we celebrate these opportunities, it’s helpful to understand the nuances of each, the political dynamics behind them, and the challenges schools face in balancing these options for students.

The Benefits of Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment programs allow high school students to take college courses at local community colleges or universities, often for credit. These credits can be transferred to many post-secondary institutions, potentially saving students thousands of dollars in tuition and accelerating their path to a degree.

Research from the Community College Research Center highlights that students who participate in dual enrollment are more likely to enroll in college, persist through their studies, and complete their degrees. Dual enrollment also provides opportunities for students who may have yet to initially envision themselves pursuing higher education, expanding their horizons and helping them realize their potential in college.

For students who crave hands-on, career-oriented experiences, dual enrollment often provides more relevant and diverse course offerings, from technical courses to niche academic disciplines only sometimes available through AP programs.

The Benefits of AP Classes

Advanced Placement (AP) classes, on the other hand, are high school courses designed to challenge students with college-level curriculum. AP exams, administered by the College Board, allow students to earn college credits based on their exam performance. AP courses are recognized nationwide, and top universities often look for students who have taken AP classes as a sign of their readiness for rigorous coursework.

Research from the College Board indicates that students scoring 3 or higher on AP exams are more likely to succeed in college. The standardized nature of AP courses ensures a consistent level of challenge across schools, making it easier for colleges to evaluate applicants.

For students aiming for highly selective universities, AP classes can be an essential part of their high school experience, demonstrating their ability to handle challenging content in calculus, biology, and U.S. history.

Politics and Perceptions

Despite the clear benefits of both programs, there is often tension between advocates of dual enrollment and AP classes. In some districts, schools may push one option over another due to budget constraints, political pressures, or long-standing relationships with local colleges or the College Board.

AP courses have long held the advantage of prestige, especially in districts where college admissions offices are deeply familiar with the program. However, dual enrollment programs are gaining momentum, especially in states like Michigan, where initiatives encourage high school students to get a jumpstart on their post-secondary education through community college partnerships.

Political debates around funding and equity often emerge when comparing these programs. Dual enrollment is sometimes seen as more accessible to underserved students, particularly in schools where AP classes aren’t as readily available or when AP exam fees create a financial burden. On the other hand, AP courses are often seen as a critical component of preparing students for top-tier colleges, where earning a 4 or 5 on an AP exam can be a gateway to skipping introductory courses.

The Challenge of GPA and Honor Points

One of the most prominent challenges schools face is configuring honor points and GPA calculations for these programs. In many high schools, AP classes are weighted more heavily than regular courses, boosting students' GPAs. But how do you weigh a college-level dual enrollment course against an AP course? Should a student taking calculus at a local college receive the same weight as one taking AP calculus?

Schools often need help finding equitable solutions. Some districts weigh AP and dual enrollment courses equally, while others favor one. This inconsistency can create confusion for students, parents, and colleges alike. Schools must communicate how GPA and honor points are calculated to ensure fairness and transparency.

A Personal Reflection

From my experience watching my daughter navigate these programs, it’s clear that both AP and dual enrollment offer tremendous opportunities. AP classes have allowed her to engage in advanced topics within the structure of her high school, while dual enrollment courses have exposed her to the college environment and challenged her in new ways. Each program has its strengths, and I’m grateful she’s had access to both.

Ultimately, the decision between AP and dual enrollment doesn’t need to be an either/or. Schools should work to provide pathways that allow students to benefit from both, depending on their strengths, interests, and post-secondary goals. Whether a student is aiming for an Ivy League school or seeking a career-focused associate degree, both programs can serve as important stepping stones toward their future.

Ultimately, it’s about ensuring that students have access to the right tools and opportunities to thrive—and that’s a goal we should all support.