Dual Enrollment vs AP Courses: What's the Difference?

Hey folks! I'm a rising junior and I'm trying to decide between taking dual enrollment courses or AP. Could anyone walk me through the differences? Which is better for college applications? Also, how do the rigor and workload typically compare between both?

Dual Enrollment and AP courses both present opportunities for high school students to take college-level coursework, but they do differ in structure, transferability, and potential benefits.

1. Structure: Dual enrollment courses involve a student taking a college course, often at a local community college, and that course can count as a high school class and a college class. These courses are taught by college professors and range in structure from semester to year-long. On the other hand, AP (Advanced Placement) courses are high school classes that prepare you to take an AP exam in May. The AP classes are taught by high school teachers, and passing the AP exam can help you earn college credits.

2. Transfer of Credits: For dual enrollment, the transfer of credits tends to be more certain within a state's public higher education system but may prove less certain nationally or at private institutions. AP credits, on the other hand, are more universally recognized across colleges and universities, and scores of 3 or above (out of a maximum of 5) are typically accepted for college credit.

3. Rigor and Workload: Both forms of courses are intended to reflect the rigor and workload of a freshman-level college class, but this can vary greatly. Often, AP classes necessitate substantial independent learning and have rigorous testing in May, whereas dual enrollment coursework is modeled after a traditional college class, with multiple assessments and grades based on continuous performance.

When it comes to college applications, neither dual enrollment nor AP courses are inherently "better." Rather, colleges appreciate seeing students pushing themselves within the context of what's available at their high school. However, for the most selective colleges, high scores on multiple AP tests can demonstrate a very high level of subject mastery.

Remember to keep your interests and goals in mind. For instance, if you're eager to experience an actual college campus, dual enrollment might be a unique experience for you. Just note that course rigor is variable, and it's essential you do your research to understand how these courses from your specific high school or college are viewed by the colleges you're considering applying to.