• 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. However, many out-of state universities will not accept dual enrollment credit. For a complete listing of universities accepting dual enrollment credit, please click here to visit Maricopa Communtiy College's website or please click here to visit AZTransfer's website.

    AP credit will transfer to many 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.

    We encourage families to discuss both options thoroughly, as each student’s situation is different. Dual credit requires an upfront financial investment larger than the AP test, but may offer students with “test anxiety” a more comfortable environment to earn the credit.

    AP is more widely accepted across the country and is a less expensive alternative.

    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. 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 school have the same course score requirement
    • Not all selective school 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 do not take too many AP courses a once

    DUAL ENROLLMENT

    Pros
    • Earn Credit less expensively
    • 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