• Advanced Placement (AP) VS. Dual Enrollment

      Both options offer students the chance to receive college credit while attending high school. They are separate programs, both with advantages for your student.

      Dual enrollment credit will transfer to any in-state university if the student passes the class with a C or better.  How credits are transferred to out-of-state universitiescan vary.  Students will need to verify directly with the university they are interested to confirm dual credit acceptance.  For a listing of universities accepting dual enrollment credit, please click here to visit Maricopa Communtiy College's website.

      AZ Transfer is also a helpful website that can help you determine how your AP and dual credit will transfer to in-state universities.

      AP credit will transfer to most universities across the country. The student must pass with a qualifying grade in order for the credit to be accepted, and policies vary from institution to institution. It is recommended that you visit the website of any college or university your student is interested in attending to research their specific credit transfer policies. AP is more widely accepted across the country and is a less expensive alternative. 

      We encourage families to discuss both options thoroughly, as each student’s situation is different. 

       

      ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)

      Pros
      • Can be a good way to earn some college credit for work done in high school
      • Nationally recognized
      • Most In- State schools, public and private in and out of state will grant some credit earned scores of 3-5 on the AP exam
      • Course will not show up on a college transcript until you request credit be applied from College Board and will not affect your financial aid
      • Selective schools like to see AP classes on student's transcripts due to the course rigor
      Cons
      • You must earn a score of 3 to 5 on the AP exam at the end of the year to be considered for college credit
      • Not all schools have the same course score requirements
      • Not all selective schools will give credit for AP
      • You should make sure you are ready for the rigor of an AP class so your GPA isn't adversely affected. You should have a "B+" or better in a regular class to consider an AP course and make sure you can handle the load if taking multiple AP courses

      For more information about AP, please visit College Board's website. 

      DUAL ENROLLMENT

      Pros
      • Earn Credit less expensively in the long run
      • Smaller class environment for learning
      • Proceed through college more quickly
      • If you pass the class with a "C" or higher, you earn credit
      • In-State Universities take the credit
      Cons
      • You must decide on the credit before the college drop deadline
      • Record of the class goes on your official, permanent college record 
      • Some public schools and many private school will not accept credit (contact the school before you pay)
      • Some schools only accept the credit for elective or placement purpose

      For more information about dual enrollment, please visit Chandler Gilbert Community College's Dual Enrollment website.