What Families Should Know Before Choosing

As high school students begin mapping out their schedules, one of the most common questions families face is whether to pursue Advanced Placement (AP) or dual credit (college credit through a community college) courses. Both options offer valuable opportunities to experience college-level academics and strengthen a transcript, but they differ in ways that can influence college admissions, credit transfer, and GPA.

Below are key considerations to help families make an informed decision.

1. College Credit and Transferability

One of the biggest distinctions between AP and dual credit lies in how colleges award credit.

AP courses are based on nationally standardized exams, which makes them widely recognized across the country. Most colleges accept AP exam scores of 4 or 5 (and many accept a 3, depending on institutional standards) for college credit. In some cases, the credit applies to a specific degree requirement; in others, it may count as elective credit. For instance, a high AP U.S. History score might replace a required history course, while an AP Human Geography score could count only as an elective. Earning that college credit requires that you take an exam at the end of the school year.

Dual credit courses, by contrast, are college classes taken through a local or partner institution. These typically transfer smoothly to public universities within the same state, but out-of-state or private colleges may evaluate them individually, often requesting a syllabus to ensure the course aligns with their academic expectations. While many community colleges have strong reputations, transfer acceptance is not guaranteed, and students sometimes discover that not all of their earned credits transfer. 

2. GPA Implications and Academic Record

Dual credit grades appear on both the high school and college transcripts, but only the college transcript contributes to a student’s future college GPA. That means grades earned in these courses become part of the student’s permanent academic record, which is an important consideration when deciding whether to take on this level of rigor.

AP courses, meanwhile, usually receive weighted GPA points at the high school level. Doing well in AP classes will boost a student’s weighted GPA and potentially improve class rank, which can be valuable in the college admissions process, and can affect automatic admission opportunities at some public universities. Students aiming for top-percentage thresholds will  find AP courses more beneficial from a GPA standpoint.

3. College Readiness and Rigor

Both AP and dual credit demonstrate a student’s ability to handle college-level work, and colleges value seeing that a student has challenged themselves academically.

When deciding between dual credit and ON-LEVEL classes, dual credit is often the stronger option because it reflects higher rigor and provides experience with college expectations. However, when choosing between dual credit and AP, families should consider learning preferences and long-term plans.

• AP courses offer a standardized curriculum and are ideal for students who perform well on exams and may apply to colleges across the country.
• Dual credit courses provide hands-on experience with college coursework and may appeal to students who excel in discussion-based or project-oriented environments.

4. Strategic Considerations

When weighing AP versus dual credit, it helps to align the decision with future academic goals:

• In-state public universities: Dual credit often transfers seamlessly and can accelerate degree progress.
• Out-of-state or private universities: AP credit tends to be more universally recognized.
• GPA and class rank: AP courses can carry additional weighting, potentially influencing class standing. 
• Demonstration of college-level mastery: Because AP tests are a global standard, universities can compare students across numerous states and school districts. Thus, demonstrating that you have received strong test scores (primarily 4s and 5s) on a number of AP exams clearly demonstrates to universities that you have mastered the content.  Earning an A in a dual credit course is certainly positive, but more competitive universities may not consider it as strong an indicator of college readiness, as they have no way of knowing how difficult that particular class at that particular college is.
• Early college GPA: Dual credit allows students to begin a college transcript early, so remember that these grades will show up on your high school transcript, even though they are not used in the GPA calculation at most high schools, but they will definitely be part of your college GPA, so it’s important that you do well, or you will start college by digging yourself out of a hole.

5. The Bottom Line

There is no single right answer when choosing between AP and dual credit. Both options prepare students for success beyond high school. The best fit depends on each student’s academic strengths, postsecondary goals, and preferred learning style.

We encourage you to review potential colleges’ credit policies, evaluate the student’s readiness for advanced coursework, and make a decision that aligns with their educational priorities. Ultimately, the most important outcome is that students challenge themselves and develop the skills and confidence needed for college and beyond.