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.

Students can receive the following beneftis from participating in dual enrollment.

• Introduction to and preparation for college life
• Ability to explore interest, 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 a college education
• Accelerated pathway through college that can save time and money

Private school or home-schooled students typically follow the same steps in applying to dual enrollment as a student from a public high school. Students should check with their high school or adult education counselor or contact their local college campus for guidance on enrollment requirements.

Dual enrollment offers many benefits, such as 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 or adult education school they are currently attending prior to enrolling to determine if the program is right for them.

It’s important to keep in mind that dual enrollment courses are taught to the rigor of a college course. Students will be covering college-level content. As such, please be aware discussion topics and course materials may be designed for adults. Assignments will be graded using college rubrics and standards. The final grade received in a dual enrollment class will be recorded on an official Monterey Peninsula College transcript. For these reasons, it is important to recognize the commitment a student is making before enrolling in a dual enrollment course.

Parental involvement will be significantly different at the college level. Although students are still young adults, enrolling in college courses means they will be treated as college students. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prevents higher education officials and instructional staff from releasing any information to family, friends, family, or others without a written release from the student, even if the student is a minor.

Additionally, we encourage student empowerment and expect students to advocate for themselves by communicating with instructors and/or college staff.