Dual enrollment allows students to enroll in community college classes and may earn college credit toward their diploma, experience college-level coursework, and receive credit toward their college degree.
Advantages of Dual Enrollment:
• Introduction to and preparation for college life
• Ability to explore interests, careers, and majors
• Opportunity to build skills that are needed in the workforce
• Motivation to stick with it and pursue a college degree or certificate
• Understanding the benefits of college education
• Accelerated pathway through college that can save time and money
Dual enrollment offers students a chance to begin college early, master college-level coursework, and learn to navigate the college environment. However, students and parents should know the following:
· The grades earned in dual enrollment courses will be part of the permanent student record and college transcript. Poor grades in dual enrollment courses can hurt students’ chances of receiving financial aid as well as their eligibility to enroll in a four-year college or university.
· Dual enrollment courses may count toward a total unit cap on financial aid or course enrollment limits.
· Students might be responsible for expenses such as textbooks and supplies, transportation to and from campus, and meals while attending courses at the campus. Students interested in dual enrollment should speak with a counselor at the high school they are currently attending prior to enrolling to determine if the program is right for them.
Community Colleges in Santa Clara County Offering Dual Enrollment Classes to High School and Adult School Students are:
- DeAnza College
- Evergreen Community College
- Foothill College
- Gavilan College
- Mission College
- San Jose City College
- West Valley College
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