Weighing AP vs Dual Enrollment - Need Advice!

Hey, I'm trying to plan out my schedule for next year and I'm torn between taking AP classes and doing dual enrollment. What's the consensus on which is better regarded when it comes to college admissions? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

There isn't necessarily a consensus that one is better than the other for college admissions as it varies from college to college and student to student.

One factor to consider is the rigors of both programs. The difficulty and workload of an AP course can often be higher than a dual enrollment course. Therefore, doing well in an AP class may demonstrate to colleges that you can handle challenging coursework. However, Dual Enrollment provides an opportunity for you to experience a real college-level course while still in high school.

Another factor is the standardized nature of the AP exams. Scoring a 4 or 5 on an AP exam is a concrete, nationally recognized achievement that can signal your readiness for college-level work. However, grades from dual enrollment classes come from a larger array of institutions, and their rigor may be more difficult to assess from the perspective of admission officers.

From a college credit standpoint, a high score on an AP exam may not always transfer as college credits depending on the school's credit transfer policies. Dual Enrollment classes will likely be accepted as college credits at public in-state colleges. However, acceptance of these credits could be less certain at out-of-state or private institutions.

In summary, both AP and Dual Enrollment programs have their benefits and challenges. It ultimately boils down to the specific goals you have for your high school journey. Think about what might be the best fit for you academically and what aligns best with your college goals. Consulting your school counselor to get personalized advice for your situation might also be helpful. They understand the dynamics of your school and could have firsthand testimonies about students' experiences with AP and dual enrollment.