AP vs Dual credit

AP (Advanced Placement) and Dual Credit are both programs that allow high school students to earn college credits, but they operate differently and offer distinct advantages:

1. AP (Advanced Placement):

• Administered by the College Board, AP courses are college-level classes taught in high school.
• At the end of the course, students take a standardized AP exam.
• Scores range from 1 to 5, and many colleges accept scores of 3 or higher for college credit.
• Credits are transferable to many colleges and universities but are subject to the institution’s AP credit policy.

1. Dual Credit:

• Courses are actual college courses for which a student receives both high school and college credit.
• Taught either at the high school or at the college campus and sometimes online.
• No standardized exam at the end; grading is like any other college course.
• Credits are often more easily transferable within the state or college system where the dual credit was earned.

AP courses are generally more focused on theoretical knowledge and prepare students for a standardized test. Dual Credit courses offer a real college experience and are often more hands-on. The best choice depends on the student’s academic needs, college aspirations, and the transferability of credits.