Dual Enrollment versus Advanced Placement: Which is better?

Hey guys, I am trying to maximize my college readiness, but I'm a bit confused between Dual Enrollment (DE) and AP courses. What are the benefits of each, and which one is typically viewed as more rigorous by colleges?

When it comes to dual enrollment and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, they both have unique advantages.

Firstly, AP courses are standardized, advanced classes that prepare you for AP tests at the end of the year. If you get a good score on these tests (usually 3 or above), you can receive college credit at many schools, both in the United States and abroad. They're generally recognized for their rigor, as the curriculum is set by the College Board. Additionally, they're offered at many high schools making them easily accessible for most students.

Alternatively, dual enrollment courses allow you to take classes at a local college while you're still in high school. These courses sometimes offer more variety than AP courses because you're not restricted to a high school curriculum. If you pass a DE class, you generally earn both high school and college credit, unlike AP classes, where college credit is dependent on your AP exam score. Another benefit of DE courses is that you experience the rhythm and rigor of actual college coursework, which can be a great way to ease the transition to university life.

As for rigor, it can depend on the institution reviewing your application. Generally, when comparing the same or similar courses, AP classes can sometimes be perceived as more challenging because they culminate in a standardized test. On the other hand, dual enrollment classes give insight into a student's ability to manage actual college-level coursework.

What's considered "better" often depends on your particular circumstances and goals. If your school offers few AP classes, dual enrollment might be a great way to show initiative and impress colleges. On the contrary, if you’re aiming for highly selective institutions and your school offers a wide range of AP classes, succeeding in multiple AP classes might weigh a bit more in your favor.

Remember to consider what works best for you in terms of workload, stress, and your future college plans. Ultimately, colleges appreciate seeing both AP and DE classes because they both demonstrate academic initiative and a willingness to challenge oneself.