Academic Dual Enrollment

Dual enrollment programs are established by Section 1007.271, Florida Statutes. They are educational options that allow secondary students to take postsecondary coursework while earning credits towards a high school diploma, career certificate, industry certification, or college degree. Participation requires the approval signatures of the school counselor and the parent/guardian. If a course is taken on a college campus, OCPS does not provide transportation. OCPS offers dual enrollment courses through other post-secondary institutions. Each dual enrollment student will be responsible for following specific guidelines and policies of each post-secondary institution and OCPS policies, such as the Code of Student Conduct.

Dual Enrollment allows students to pursue an advanced curriculum that earns the student both high school and college credit simultaneously, and the cost is covered by OCPS!  College-level dual enrollment courses are weighted the same as Advanced Placement and AICE courses when weighted GPA is calculated. 

Should You Consider Dual Enrollment?

You’ve probably heard the phrase “rigorous course load” tossed around when talking about college admissions. But what does that really mean—and how does Dual Enrollment fit into the picture?

Colleges want to see that you’ve challenged yourself academically. One of the best ways to demonstrate this is through your transcript, which tells the story of your academic journey. Dual Enrollment (DE) is one way to show that you’re ready to take on college-level work while still in high school. But is it the right fit for you?

What Does “Rigorous” Really Mean?

Rigorous doesn’t just mean hard—it means challenging yourself appropriately. Research shows that students who take on a rigorous curriculum are more likely to succeed in college, even more so than those with high test scores or GPAs. Dual Enrollment is considered rigorous because it places you in real college classes, often with college students, and requires a higher level of independence and time management.

Dual Enrollment vs. AP vs. Honors: What’s the Difference?

• Dual Enrollment: You take actual college courses and earn college credit. These grades go on your college transcript.
• AP (Advanced Placement): High school courses with college-level content. You earn college credit based on your AP exam score.
• Honors: More challenging than standard classes, but typically don’t offer college credit.

WARNING:  The grades that students receive on dual enrollment college-level classes will go on both the high school and college transcripts and will impact both the high school and college GPAs, along with Bright Futures early acceptance and renewal calculations. Students must take courses seriously and understand that they require time and attention. 

Characteristics of Successful Dual Enrollment Students: 

• Reading and writing proficiency
• Independent
• Motivated
• Self-directed
• Good time management skills
• Personally responsible for learning
• Effectively communicates with counselors