Table of Contents
Introduction
Thinking about college while still in high school can feel overwhelming. But what if you could get a head start—saving time, money, and stress? That’s where dual enroll Ivy Tech comes in. It’s a smart option for high school students who want to take college-level classes early, often for free or at reduced cost.
Ivy Tech Community College, one of Indiana’s leading colleges, offers the chance to dual enroll through partnerships with local high schools. This means students can earn both high school and college credits at the same time. It’s a win-win for students, parents, and schools.
In this guide, we’ll break down how Ivy Tech’s dual enrollment program works, who can join, what classes are offered, and how it can set students up for a bright future. Whether you’re a curious teen or a supportive parent, this easy-to-read article will answer all your biggest questions.
Let’s dive into the world of dual enroll Ivy Tech and explore how it opens doors for tomorrow—starting today.
What Does Dual Enroll Ivy Tech Mean?
Dual enroll Ivy Tech means a high school student is enrolled in both high school and college classes at the same time. The college classes are offered through Ivy Tech, and students will get credit for both high school and college when they pass.
This option is available through a partnership between Ivy Tech Community College and Indiana high schools. Students can take general education courses—like English, math, speech, or science—that will count toward a future college degree.
One special part of this system is that many of the courses are available at low or no cost. Dual enrollment helps families save thousands of dollars on college tuition later.
It also helps students explore new subjects, learn at a faster level, and build confidence in a college setting.
Who Can Join Dual Enroll Ivy Tech Programs?
Dual enrollment is not just for top students or seniors. It’s open to a wide range of high school learners. The specific requirements may vary slightly by school or district, but in general:
- Students in grades 9–12 are eligible
- They usually need a minimum GPA (often 2.5 or higher)
- Some courses may require placement exams or qualifying test scores
- Students must get approval from their high school counselor or advisor
Many schools offer info sessions about the Ivy Tech program right on campus. If you’re interested, just ask your guidance office how to apply. They’ll help guide you every step of the way.
How Does Dual Enrollment with Ivy Tech Work?
With dual enroll Ivy Tech, students take college courses while still attending their regular high school. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Apply to Ivy Tech as a dual credit student
- Meet with a high school counselor to choose courses
- Receive placement test scores or waivers if needed
- Sign up for classes during the regular school year or summer
- Attend classes at the high school, Ivy Tech campus, or online
Each class is worth both high school credit and college credit, and students receive official transcripts from Ivy Tech. These transcripts can be transferred later to most colleges across Indiana and even out of state.
Some students take one or two classes a semester, while others complete full associate degrees before they finish high school!
Which Courses Are Offered Through Ivy Tech Dual Enrollment?
The dual enroll Ivy Tech catalog includes a wide variety of subjects. These are usually core, transferable credits that students need for any degree. Examples include:
- English Composition (ENG 111 and 112)
- College Algebra or Math 123
- Introduction to Psychology
- American History
- Speech Communication
- Biology
- Computer Basics
- Public Health
- Career Exploration or College Success Skills
These classes give students a preview of what college academics feel like—but with the support of their high school mentors.
Benefits of Dual Enroll Ivy Tech for Students
There are many good reasons why thousands of Hoosier students are choosing the dual enroll Ivy Tech path:
- Save money on college tuition
- Graduate earlier by earning college credits in high school
- Gain college-level learning skills sooner
- Build strong college and job applications
- Explore future careers or majors before graduating
- Learn with flexible scheduling, including online options
Students also get access to Ivy Tech’s academic support services, including tutoring centers, online help, and advising—even as high school students.
How Do Credits Transfer After High School?
One common worry is: will these college credits actually count later? The answer from Ivy Tech is yes—mostly!
Courses from dual enroll Ivy Tech are part of Indiana’s Core Transfer Library, which means they transfer to most public colleges in Indiana, including:
- Purdue University
- Ball State
- Indiana University-Bloomington
- Indiana State University
- And many more
If you’re heading to a private college or out-of-state school, you’ll want to check with those colleges directly. Ivy Tech credits are widely accepted, but it’s best to confirm how they apply to your chosen program.
What’s the Difference Between Dual Enrollment and AP Classes?
Both dual enroll Ivy Tech and Advanced Placement (AP) classes offer college credit opportunities—but they work very differently.
With AP:
- Students take one national test at the end of the course
- The college decides whether to award credit based on your score (often needing a 3, 4, or 5)
With Ivy Tech dual enrollment:
- Students are graded on regular class performance
- Credit is earned by passing the course, not just one test
- Credit usually transfers more easily within Indiana
So, while AP is great for some, dual enrollment may be better for students who prefer steady work over a single test.
Real Student Success Stories from Ivy Tech Dual Enrollment
Hundreds of Indiana students have started college early—and succeeded—because of dual enroll Ivy Tech. Here are a few examples:
- Carla, a junior from South Bend, completed six Ivy Tech classes and started university with a full semester done.
- Evan, a senior from Evansville, finished an associate degree in IT while still in high school, then earned a job offer right after graduation.
- Sophie, a homeschooled student, used dual enrollment to explore healthcare careers and is now entering nursing school with Ivy Tech credits.
These students all took different paths—but they each benefited from early college experience and low or no-cost credits.
Costs, Fees, and Saving Money
Most dual enroll Ivy Tech courses are free if they’re offered in partnership with your high school. In other cases, you might pay a reduced fee.
Here’s the general cost breakdown:
- Dual credit classes through your high school: Often free
- Classes taken on Ivy Tech campuses or online: May cost a small fee per credit
- Books/materials: Sometimes free, sometimes school pays, occasionally family contributes
Even if there are fees involved, families usually save thousands of dollars, since a single Ivy Tech credit costs much less than a university credit.
How to Get Started with Dual Enroll Ivy Tech
Ready to explore dual enrollment? Here’s how to begin:
- Talk to your school counselor
- Apply to Ivy Tech online at ivytech.edu/dualcredit
- Complete placement steps if needed
- Pick classes that match your goals
- Attend an orientation and get your Ivy Tech ID
Remember, deadlines vary from school to school and semester to semester, so don’t wait too long to ask for help.
Tips for Parents Supporting a Dual Enrollment Student
If you’re a parent, you might be just as nervous as your teen. Here’s how to support them:
- Encourage open communication about coursework
- Help them manage time between high school and college work
- Celebrate small milestones along the way
- Sit in on orientation sessions when allowed
- Keep track of deadlines and help them stay organized
This journey is about growth, independence, and setting the path for a strong future. With support from family and school, dual enrollment can be an amazing opportunity.
Is Dual Enroll Ivy Tech Right for Everyone?
While dual enrollment sounds great, it may not fit everyone. Here are a few things to consider:
- The workload is heavier than most high school classes
- Time management becomes more important
- Students need to meet higher academic expectations
- Not all classes align with all career paths
If your student is motivated, curious, and ready to take on new challenges, then dual enroll Ivy Tech is a great fit. If not, it’s okay—they can always choose this option later.
FAQs
1. What does “dual enroll Ivy Tech” mean?
It means taking Ivy Tech college classes for both high school and college credit at the same time.
2. Can homeschool students enroll too?
Yes! Homeschool students can apply and take online or campus classes through Ivy Tech’s dual enrollment program.
3. Will the credits really transfer to other colleges?
Yes, especially within Indiana public colleges. Always check transfer rules for out-of-state or private schools.
4. How do I sign up for classes?
Work with your school counselor. They’ll help with paperwork, tests, and registering for the right classes.
5. What if a student fails a class—does it affect high school graduation?
It might. That’s why it’s important to stay on track and ask for help early on if problems arise.
6. Can dual enrollment help me get into college?
Definitely. Having college credits shows initiative, motivation, and preparation. That looks great on applications!
Conclusion
Your future doesn’t have to start after high school—it can begin right now. With dual enroll Ivy Tech, Indiana students have a life-changing opportunity to earn college credits, explore careers, and save thousands. All while still walking the halls of their high schools.
This path helps you get ahead, build confidence, and create a solid foundation for whatever comes next. Whether college, career, or life goals—this program can give you the head start you’ve been looking for.