What is dual credit and how does it work?
Get ahead, save money and start college smarter

You’re ready for more — more challenges, more freedom, more college prep.
Good news: Dual credit lets you earn college credit and high school credit at the same time, all before graduation. It's a smart, strategic move for students who want to lighten their future college course load, save money, and start college ahead of the game.
Whether you’re already eyeing the University of Cincinnati or just exploring your options, here’s everything you need to know to decide if dual credit is right for you.
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What is dual credit? A quick definition
Think of it like this as a two-for-one deal.
Dual credit means you’re enrolled in a course that gives you both high school and college credit — at the same time. These classes are offered through a partnership between your high school and a college or university (like UC), and they’re taught by instructors who meet college-level standards.
Unlike AP classes, your college credit isn’t based on a single test score. It’s based on how you perform in the class.
Example: Instead of taking English 12 now and first-year English Composition later, you could take one dual credit course that checks off both.
How does dual credit work?
Once enrolled, dual credit courses can be taken:
- at your high school
- online
- on a college campus
In most cases, your school partners with a local college (like UC) through College Credit Plus (CCP) to ensure each course meets university standards.
When you finish the class successfully, you’ll earn both high school and college credit. It’s that simple.
Example: An Ohio high school junior takes UC’s Intro to Psychology through CCP.
They earn a high school elective credit and 3 college credits on a UC transcript. No extra class. No extra cost. Just progress.
Want to know if your credits will transfer later? Check out the Ohio Transfer to Degree Guarantee.
Who can take dual credit courses?
Eligibility can vary depending on your school and the partnering college, but these are the most common factors:
- Your grade level (usually available to students in grades 7-12)
- GPA or standardized test scores
- The partnership agreement between your school and the college
Sometimes, a placement test or permission from your school counselor is required.
At the University of Cincinnati, College Credit Plus students need to meet UC’s academic admission criteria and apply through the official CCP portal.
Benefits of dual credit
So, is it worth it? For many students (and their families), the answer is yes. Here’s why:
1. Save money
Dual credit courses are often free or low-cost, meaning you can cut down on future tuition expenses.
2. Graduate sooner
By starting college with credits already earned, you can finish your degree in less time — or have more flexibility in your schedule.
3. Test out college-level workload
It’s a great way to get a feel for college expectations and see if you’re ready for the challenge.
4. Stand out in applications
Colleges (including UC) love to see students who go above and beyond. Dual credit shows initiative and academic motivation.
Dual credit vs AP: What’s the difference?
Both dual credit and advanced placement (AP) courses are college-level options, but they work differently:
Category |
Dual Credit |
AP (Advanced Placement) |
Who awards credit |
College or university (like UC) |
College, based on AP exam score |
Course taught by |
Approved high school or college instructor |
High school teacher |
Credit guarantee |
Credit is awarded if the course is passed |
Credit awarded if exam score meets college standards |
Location |
High school, college or online |
High school only |
So, if you're wondering about dual credit vs AP, the key difference is how you earn the credit: dual credit is based on coursework, while AP credit depends on one high-stakes test.
Learn more about AP class from the college board website.
Dual enrollment vs. dual credit: What’s the difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but here’s the difference:
Dual enrollment typically refers to the act of being enrolled in both high school and college at the same time.
Dual credit emphasizes that you’re earning credit for both.
Most Ohio programs — including UC's CCP — fall under the umbrella of dual enrollment and offer dual credit.
Real talk: Pros and cons of dual credit
Like anything, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons:
Pros:
Earn college credit early
Save money on tuition
Get ahead in your college journey
Test out majors or career paths with the courses you take
Explore subjects beyond the high school curriculum
Cons:
Grades are permanent on your college transcript
Some credits may not transfer to out-of-state or private colleges
Workload may be challenging if you're juggling extracurriculars
Still, for many motivated students, the pros far outweigh the cons.
How to earn dual credit in high school
Ready to get started? Here’s what to do:
- Talk to your counselor: Ask about your options and eligibility for College Credit Plus or another dual credit program.
- Apply to the partnering college: Most schools require a short application, transcripts, and sometimes a placement test.
- Choose your courses: Pick from a list of approved classes — these might include English, biology, history, or even college-level electives.
- Stay on top of it: Dual credit courses can move faster than regular classes, so time management is key.
Final thoughts: Is dual credit the right move for you?
If you’re a self-motivated high school student eyeing the University of Cincinnati — or just looking to get a jump start on college — dual credit could be a powerful way to make your goals more achievable and your education more affordable. It’s about working smarter, not harder.
You’re already thinking like a college student. Now’s your chance to earn college credit like one, too
Still have questions? Head to UC's College Credit Plus page for more details and to start your application, or talk with your school counselor about your options.