Table of Contents
Introduction
Imagine getting college credits while you’re still in high school. Sounds pretty cool, right? That’s exactly what the Ivy Tech Dual Enroll program offers! It’s a way for high school students to take college classes early, save time, and spend less money on college later. You can even take classes online or at your high school—no need to move or figure out a whole new routine.
If you’re a student who wants to get ahead, or a parent looking out for your child’s future, this guide is for you.
We’ll walk you through everything about Ivy Tech Dual Enroll: how it works, who can join, what classes you can take, and why it’s a smart choice for so many families. This isn’t just about earning college credits early—it’s about building confidence, opening doors, and preparing for what’s next.
Let’s dive into the world of opportunity that Ivy Tech’s dual enrollment program offers!
What Is Dual Enrollment at Ivy Tech?
Dual enrollment at Ivy Tech means high school students can take college courses while still in school. These are real college classes. Students earn both high school and college credits at the same time. That’s a win-win!
The program is part of Ivy Tech Community College in Indiana. It’s open to public, private, and even homeschooled students. And here’s the best part: many of these courses are free or very low-cost thanks to state funding and partnerships with local schools.
Classes can be held:
- At your high school
- Online
- At an Ivy Tech campus
So, dual enrollment doesn’t mean more work—it means more opportunity.
You don’t need to be a super genius either. As long as you’re willing to learn and meet the basic requirements, you can join the program and start your college journey early.
Who Can Join the Ivy Tech Dual Enroll Program?
Not every student can jump into college-level courses, but many can. To qualify for Ivy Tech Dual Enroll, here’s what you’ll usually need:
- Be a high school student (grades 9–12)
- Get approval from your school or a parent (if homeschooled)
- Meet placement or GPA requirements for certain classes (like math or English)
Some courses may need test scores like the PSAT, SAT, or Accuplacer. But don’t worry—there are options for everyone, and Ivy Tech staff can help guide you.
Also, this program isn’t just for straight-A students. It’s about motivation, curiosity, and your goals for the future. If you’re serious about learning and ready for a challenge, Ivy Tech wants to help you succeed.
What Types of Classes Can You Take?
Ivy Tech offers a huge variety of dual enrollment courses. This isn’t just math and English—it includes hands-on, career-focused classes too.
Here are some popular course areas:
- English and Literature
- College Algebra and Statistics
- Health Sciences
- Business and Marketing
- Computer Science
- Welding, Manufacturing, and Trades
- Criminal Justice
- Education and Early Childhood
These courses give students a taste of college AND help them explore careers. For example, if you want to be a nurse or a teacher, you can take intro courses before you even finish high school.
Each course includes the same content as what’s taught to college students. That means your learning is the real deal.
How Much Does Ivy Tech Dual Enrollment Cost?
Here’s some fantastic news: most Ivy Tech Dual Enroll classes are free. That’s thanks to special programs like Indiana’s Next Level Programs of Study and dual credit agreements with local school districts.
Even when there is a fee, it’s often much lower than regular college cost.
For example:
- A full college class might cost over $1,000 at a big university.
- The same class through Ivy Tech Dual Enroll? Often $0 to $50.
Plus, textbooks are usually provided by the high school. That’s a huge savings!
Parents, that means you can save thousands on college tuition—while your student gets ahead.
What Are the Benefits of Ivy Tech Dual Enroll?
There are so many great reasons to join Ivy Tech Dual Enroll. Here’s what students and parents love most:
1. Save Money
Many classes are free. That means less college debt later.
2. Graduate Earlier
Students can earn college credit toward an associate degree or even transfer to a university sooner.
3. Explore Careers
Try out programs like healthcare, business, or welding before committing to a career path.
4. Gain Confidence
Taking college classes shows students they can handle higher-level work.
5. Boost Applications
Dual enrollment looks awesome on college and scholarship applications!
These benefits help prepare students for life beyond high school—whether that’s college, a job, or something totally different. Ivy Tech builds real-world skills that matter.
How to Apply for Ivy Tech Dual Enroll
Ready to get started? The process for applying to Ivy Tech Dual Enroll is simple.
Here are the steps:
- Talk to Your School Counselor
Ask if your school works with Ivy Tech. They’ll help you choose the right classes. - Get Permission
You’ll need approval from your parent or school administrator. - Fill Out the Ivy Tech Application
Go to Ivy Tech’s Dual Enroll site and create a free account to apply. - Take a Placement Test (If Needed)
Some classes need scores from the Accuplacer, PSAT, or SAT. Ivy Tech will help schedule these. - Register for Classes
Once you’re accepted, you’ll work with an advisor to pick your courses. - Start Learning
That’s it! You’re now a college student—before high school is even over.
Most students say the process was easier than expected. And Ivy Tech staff are always ready to help if you have questions.
Online Options: Can You Take Ivy Tech Dual Enroll Classes From Home?
Yes, you can! Ivy Tech offers many online dual enrollment options.
This is a great choice for:
- Students with busy schedules
- Homeschool families
- Those who live far from a campus
Online classes follow the same curriculum as in-person ones. You’ll interact with classmates and professors digitally. You’ll also get access to college resources like tutoring and advising, all from your laptop.
Pro tip: Make sure you stay organized. Online learning gives you freedom, but it also requires good time management.
Still, hundreds of students do great in Ivy Tech’s online dual enroll program every year—it’s flexible and designed to work for different lifestyles.
Credits That Count: Will These Courses Transfer to Other Colleges?
Yes, many Ivy Tech courses transfer to other colleges in Indiana and beyond.
Ivy Tech is part of the TransferIN system. That means credits can often transfer smoothly to:
- Indiana University (IU)
- Purdue University
- Ball State
- And many others
Some degrees, like the Indiana College Core, are especially helpful. This special set of classes equals the first year of college—fully transferable to public colleges in Indiana.
Before transferring, it’s always smart to plan early. Talk to both Ivy Tech and your future college to be sure your credits will count.
What Support Will Students Receive?
Joining college-level classes might sound scary. But Ivy Tech offers tons of support to dual enrolled students.
Here’s what you get:
- Advisors to help you pick the right courses
- Tutors to guide you with tricky classwork
- Online help through chats, Zoom, or phone
- Library and writing center access
You’re not alone. Ivy Tech wants to see you succeed and is ready to help at every step. Ask questions. Use the resources. That’s what they’re there for!
Real Student Stories: Ivy Tech Dual Enroll in Action
Let’s meet a few students who took dual enrollment at Ivy Tech and loved their experience.
Emily, Age 17:
Emily took early childhood education classes online while in high school. She realized that teaching was her passion and entered Ivy Tech full-time with almost a year of college already done. “I saved over $6,000 in tuition!” she says.
Marcus, Age 16:
Marcus wanted to work in IT. He took computer science and cybersecurity classes through Ivy Tech’s dual enroll program. Now he plans to get an associate degree and start working in tech—without any student debt.
Lily, Homeschooled Student:
Lily used Ivy Tech’s dual enroll program to take general ed classes like English and History online. “It fit perfectly with our homeschool routine,” her mom shares.
Their stories show what’s possible when students get a head start!
Ivy Tech Dual Enroll vs. AP Classes: What’s the Difference?
Both options give students a head start, but they’re a little different:
AP Classes:
- Taught in high school by high school teachers.
- You must take and pass a final exam to get college credit.
- Some colleges may not accept AP scores.
Ivy Tech Dual Enroll:
- Taught by college-certified instructors.
- You earn credit by passing the class—no big exam.
- Credits often transfer directly to colleges, especially in Indiana.
For students who want a guaranteed head start, dual enrollment may be more flexible and rewarding.
FAQs
1. Is Ivy Tech Dual Enroll hard?
It’s challenging but not impossible. Many students succeed with support from advisors and tutors.
2. Can homeschooled students join?
Yes! Homeschool families often use Ivy Tech Dual Enroll to access advanced courses and save on college.
3. Do the grades count toward college GPA?
Yes, the grades go on your college transcript and may be included in GPA at your next college.
4. What happens if I don’t pass a class?
You may not earn credit, and it might affect your college record. But help is available—don’t wait to ask!
5. Can I earn a whole degree while in high school?
Yes, some students finish the Indiana College Core or even a full associate degree before graduating.
Conclusion
Ivy Tech Dual Enroll is more than just early college access—it’s a powerful tool that helps students build skills, save money, and plan ahead. Whether you want to explore a career path, beef up your college application, or just learn something new, this program opens the door.
And for parents—it’s a way to support your child’s future without breaking the bank.
You don’t have to wait until after high school to start your college journey. Ivy Tech is ready to help you begin today.