The difference between AP classes and Dual Credit?
What are Ap classes and Dual Credit classes?
Dual enrollment allows students in their senior year of high school to begin undergraduate classes for credit. Unlike AP classes, which give credit based on a test, dual enrollment classes give credit if the student passes the class. On the other hand, the College Board's AP classes are high school classes with curriculum and examinations. Under certain conditions, students can earn college credit by taking and passing an AP course and test.
The Similarities of Dual Credit and Ap Classes
Although AP classes and dual credit are different, they have similarities. Examples of this include the fact that they both allow for a high school student to partake in college courses. This is useful as it carries over to most colleges, allowing for one to graduate earlier than their peers. It can also be useful as both options allow for the student to skip troublesome classes in college that are usually harder and might not relate to one’s future. An example of this is US History, which would not be very useful for a CS major. Therefore, by taking the AP test for US History in high school, they can skip this class altogether in college.
The differences between both of them
- Dual enrollment or AP? It's plausible you are still unsure. To make decisions a little easier, we've compiled a short, unorganized list of the main differences between course options.
- The results of one test determine whether or not you receive college credit in AP classes. Multiple factors contribute to a student's final grade in dual enrollment.
- Dual enrollment is usually more expensive than the AP test.
- AP classes may be easier to incorporate into a student's current schedule. Access to dual enrollment is not as standardized.
- Taking dual enrollment classes at a particular college may help you stand out in your application.
Conclusion and your choice of taking either of them
You are one step closer to creating a high school schedule that works for you now that you understand the major differences between dual enrollment and AP classes. Both of these options are excellent ways to earn college credit and get a head start on your college career, so either can be extremely beneficial. However, taking both at once may allow for them to complement each other, as not all APs are offered dual credit courses at certain schools.
Daniel Z is a current student planning to major in computer science. He hopes to provide invaluable information regarding how to be successful in your high school career!